Accountant's Minute's Podcast

In this edition of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, founder and Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, dives deep into the essential – but often overlooked – topic of corporate governance for SMEs. This episode is a must-listen for accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors who want to provide stronger leadership and risk management guidance to their clients. From understanding directors' duties under the Corporations Act to improving board meeting practices, internal controls, and financial literacy, Peter outlines practical steps professionals can take to help SME clients strengthen their governance frameworks. Whether your clients are companies, not-for-profits, sporting clubs, or churches, this episode shows how Corporate Governance can boost confidence, prevent costly mistakes, and build stakeholder trust. Learn how to position yourself as the trusted advisor your clients need to navigate their legal and fiduciary responsibilities. Plus, discover how ESS BIZTOOLS' Corporate Governance and Advis

In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers challenges accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors to step into the role of true strategic partners for SMEs. Discover how financial forecasting, real-time reporting, and predictive accounting can transform your client relationships and your practice. From cash flow management to capital raising through crowdsource funding, Peter outlines the practical tools and advisory opportunities waiting for firms ready to move beyond compliance. If you're looking to deliver deeper value, build recurring advisory revenue, and help clients scale with confidence You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of the Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers explores why family businesses are the cornerstone of the Australian SME sector—and what that means for accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors. With 70% of SMEs being family-run, understanding the unique dynamics, challenges, and opportunities of these businesses is essential. Peter dives into real-world advisory questions—from employing family members and paying fair wages to succession planning and funding options like crowd-sourced equity and early-stage innovation. Discover how ESS BIZTOOLS can equip you with ready-to-use tools, resources, and communication strategies to confidently advise your family business clients and grow your own firm in the process. Whether you're already working with family businesses or just getting started in advisory, this episode will inspire you to think bigger, ask better questions, and deliver real value. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, founder of ESS BIZTOOLS, challenges accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors to rethink their role with SME clients. It's time to move beyond tax returns and embrace the full potential of business advisory services. Peter explores how tools like the SME Needs Analysis, Business Plus+ newsletters, and Predictive Accounting Reports can empower accountants to deliver real impact – helping clients manage cash flow, reduce debtors days outstanding, plan for succession and raise capital. He also reflects on why many SMEs are missing out on critical advice and how accountants can step into the gap as trusted business advisors. If you’re ready to broaden your services, deepen client relationships, and future-proof your firm, this episode is essential listening.

In this episode of the Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers dives into why so many Australian businesses struggle to scale—and how accountants and advisors play a pivotal role in building the right foundations. From strengthening internal systems and cash flow forecasting to debtors management, supplier negotiations, and business planning, Peter unpacks practical ways professionals can guide SME clients toward sustainable growth. Tune in to discover how you can help your clients avoid costly pitfalls and position your firm as a trusted advisor on their scaling journey. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube    

In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can respond to the mounting pressures faced by SME clients—and their own firms. With compliance services rapidly evolving and advisory opportunities expanding, Peter outlines how the ESS BIZTOOLS Starter Package equips you to become a virtual CFO, deliver ongoing commercial insights, and support clients through financial forecasting, R&D, charge-out rates, and more. If you're ready to move beyond tax returns and help businesses truly thrive, this episode is your roadmap to getting started. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube    

In this episode of the Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can create meaningful conversations that go beyond compliance and drive real results for SME clients. Drawing from decades of experience, Peter highlights the importance of proactive client engagement, effective communication of advisory services, and the power of tools like the Business Plus+ newsletter to spark valuable dialogue and deliver measurable improvements in client outcomes. Discover how to shift your conversations from reactive to transformative – and why it’s time to start promoting your advisory offerings like your clients market their own businesses. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can put Business Plus+ into action to spark meaningful conversations with SME clients. Learn how this monthly communication tool becomes a gateway to advisory services - covering everything from business planning and R&D to selling a business and improving cash flow. Peter also reflects on industry shifts, including warnings from Chris Jordan and Mark Wickersham on the decline of compliance work, reinforcing the urgent need to evolve into proactive advisory roles. If you're ready to move from insight to implementation, this episode is essential listening. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountant’s Minute Podcast, Peter Towers unpacks the urgent need for accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors to pivot as traditional compliance work continues to decline. Drawing on insights from thought leaders like Mark Wickersham and former ATO Commissioner Chris Jordan, Peter explores how firms can future-proof themselves through proactive, value-adding advisory services. Learn how the Business Plus+ newsletter can become your secret weapon to engage SME clients, build trust, and showcase your expertise far beyond tax returns. If you’re ready to move from "tax preparer" to "trusted advisor," this episode is for you. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this special podcast episode, based on the 400th edition of Accountants Minute, Peter Towers delivers a powerful wake-up call for the accounting profession. With compliance work on the decline and automation accelerating, the future belongs to those who embrace their role as trusted advisors. Learn how to diversify your services, implement powerful advisory tools like financial forecasting and virtual CFO support, and make your firm indispensable to SME clients. Featuring insights from thought leader Mark Wickersham and a candid look at the challenges facing SMEs today, this episode is a must-listen for any accounting professional serious about staying relevant—and thriving—in a changing landscape. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this Accountants Minute Podcast episode, Peter Towers challenges accountants, bookkeepers, and advisors to step beyond compliance and become strategic leaders in their clients’ growth journeys. Peter dives into what it really takes to deliver premium advisory services—from implementing performance-driven systems and predictive accounting to mastering business planning and becoming a true "storyteller" for your clients’ future success. Whether you're advising SMEs or aspiring to be a virtual CFO, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you build scalable, future-focused services—and position your firm at the forefront of the profession. Don’t miss this call to action as we approach our 400th edition! You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountant’s Minute Podcast, Peter Towers urges accountants, bookkeepers, and advisors to move beyond compliance work and embrace value-added services. With automation rapidly reducing tax-related tasks, now is the time to step up as trusted advisors, offering strategic insights to help SMEs thrive. Discover why your future depends on advisory services—and how you can start the shift today. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of The Accountant's Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, delves into The Future of Accounting—a crucial topic for accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors working with SMEs. With over 2 million small businesses in Australia facing increasing financial pressures, is your firm ready to evolve beyond compliance and tax return services? Peter explores the shifting landscape of accounting, highlighting former Tax Commissioner Chris Jordan’s warning: High-volume, low-margin tax work is unsustainable. Learn how you can transition to advisory-based services, add value to your SME clients, and secure the future of your practice. Plus, discover the Advisory Intro Package—a simple way to start offering financial and management advisory services within just one week. Tune in for actionable insights and strategies to future-proof your accounting firm. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube    

Boost your firm’s impact with financial forecasting! In this episode of the ESS BIZTOOLS Accountants’ Minute Podcast, Peter Towers explores how accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors can elevate their SME clients’ success through effective business planning and predictive accounting. Learn why financial forecasting is crucial for sustainable growth, cash flow management, and strategic decision-making. Discover how to guide SMEs in developing business plans, managing key financial drivers, and leveraging capital-raising opportunities. Tune in to stay ahead in advisory services and help your clients thrive! You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of Accountants Minute podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, explores the crucial role of systems in ‘scaling up’ SMEs. Drawing from real-world business insights and MYOB research, Peter discusses how poor debtor management, inadequate supplier agreements, and lack of cash flow planning contribute to SME failures. He highlights the importance of structured processes, weekly financial tracking and strategic planning to ensure business sustainability. Tune in to discover practical strategies accountants, bookkeepers and business advisors can use to help their clients build robust financial systems and drive growth. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of the Accountant’s Minute Podcast, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, dives into the critical role that systems play in SME success. Drawing from MYOB research and real-world business case studies, Peter highlights how poor implementation - or complete absence - of financial and operational systems leads to cash flow crises, supplier issues, and mounting tax liabilities. He discusses key problem areas such as unrealistic payment expectations, debtor management, and the importance of predictive accounting. Peter also outlines the 12 Essential Systems for Business Success and explains why accountants, bookkeepers, and advisors should guide their clients in establishing structured financial processes. Tune in to gain insights on how to help your SME clients avoid financial pitfalls and thrive in today’s business environment. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of The Accountant’s Minute Podcast, Peter Towers dives into the critical role accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors play in helping SMEs thrive. With 91% of business owners identifying growth as their biggest challenge, Peter discusses how structured financial systems, predictive accounting, and strategic business planning can drive sustainable success. He highlights the shifting landscape of compliance work, urging professionals to expand into advisory services to stay ahead of automation and changing industry demands. Packed with insights on financial controls, business metrics, and the importance of weekly performance reviews, this episode is a must-listen for those looking to add real value to their clients. Tune in to learn how to future-proof your practice and take advantage of ESS BIZTOOLS’ ready-made advisory systems. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this podcast episode, Peter Towers, Managing Director of ESS BIZTOOLS, discusses the growing challenges faced by SMEs, including financial pressures, high debt levels, and business closures. He emphasises the crucial role of accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors in providing proactive financial and commercial advisory services to help SMEs navigate these difficulties. Peter highlights the importance of business planning, debtor management, cash flow forecasting, and strategic financial advice, arguing that accountants should expand their services beyond tax compliance. He also introduces ESS BIZTOOLS as a comprehensive solution for firms looking to enhance their advisory offerings, providing resources, training, and tools to better support SME clients. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this episode of The Accountants Minute Podcast, Peter Towers discusses the significant challenges SMEs will face in 2025. He highlights the critical need for SMEs to have access to real-time financial and commercial advisory services beyond just annual tax returns. Drawing from his experience in corporate financial management, Peter emphasises the importance of proactive financial reporting, key performance indicator (KPI) tracking, and predictive accounting. He urges accountants and bookkeepers to implement a ’52-Week Business Enhancement System’ that includes daily and weekly financial oversight to help SMEs identify and resolve financial issues promptly, ensuring their long-term survival and success. You can also access our podcast on: Amazon Music Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify YouTube

In this final Accountant’s Minute podcast episode for 2024, Peter Towers emphasises the critical role accountants, bookkeepers, and business advisors play in guiding SMEs through increasingly challenging times. Amidst high interest rates, inflation, and business failures, SMEs are struggling with fiscal management, cash flow issues, and a lack of strategic financial guidance. Peter underscores that accountants must evolve beyond taxation services to offer financial and commercial advisory support that businesses desperately need. He highlights the importance of predictive accounting, detailed reporting, and proactive planning to help SMEs not only survive but thrive. Drawing on examples and industry insights, Peter explores the value of structured systems, such as the 52-Week Business Enhancement System, developed by ESS BIZTOOLS, and stresses the need for ongoing financial reporting—daily, weekly, and monthly—to drive accountability and performance. He urges accountants to adopt a virtual CFO mindset, provid