Embracing AI in accounting with Ben Stein

After the First Million

Scaling a business isn’t just about growth; it’s about building the right systems and empowering your team to thrive.

Ben Stein, CEO of Keeper, made the transition from fractional CFO to scaling a global business by focusing on efficiency, technology, and creating a culture of accountability.In this episode, Ben shares key lessons from growing Keeper into an innovative accounting solution. He emphasizes minimizing context switching, the role of AI in operations, and the importance of an efficient team structure. His insights on leadership, delegation, and technology offer actionable advice for anyone aiming to scale their business sustainably, applicable across various fields.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The synergy between technology and human effort: Ben highlights how integrating tech enhances productivity, allowing more meaningful client interactions.
• The impact of swift responses on client trust: Acknowledging client concerns quickly builds trust and reshapes their overall experience.
• Strategies for practical AI implementation: Focus on efficiency improvements to shift time towards client advisories, rather than aiming for automation perfection.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Meet Ben Stein
(02:06) Ben Stein’s CFO background at Mira
(03:10) QuickBooks challenges in modern accounting
(03:46) The need to minimize switching costs
(05:54) Focusing on doing less, but better
(09:03) The payroll services myth
(12:01) Delegation for effective business structure
(14:38) Ben’s customer email strategy
(22:26) AI’s role in boosting efficiency and advisory
(32:45) Keeper’s AI initiatives for closing processes
(42:14) The importance of prompt responses in client relationships
(44:08) Using diverse learning resources for support
(49:11) The future of accounting with AI