Whether you crave deeper conversations or just need that quick compliance fix, this episode will help you understand how to build a partnership with your CPA that goes the distance.

Welcome to another episode of the Empowering Entrepreneurs Podcast. Glenn Harper and Julie Smith talk about one of the most common questions facing business owners and taxpayers during tax season—why isn't my CPA calling me back?

In this episode, they break down the differences between compliance-focused CPAs and those who act as year-round advisors, highlighting the importance of proactive communication and relationship-building.

They explore practical advice for listeners struggling to connect with their tax professionals, discuss strategies for navigating the busy tax season, and offer tips on getting the most value from your CPA relationship—beyond just filing your returns.

This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.

Key takeaways:

1. Know your CPA’s role: If your relationship is focused only on compliance (just getting the return filed), expect limited time for deep conversations during tax season. Building an ongoing advisory relationship means vital conversations happen all year, not just in April.
2. Communicate efficiently: During these busy weeks, keep your questions direct and to the point. Save in-depth discussions for after the filing deadline, or consider filing an extension to create space for them (03:03).
3. Plan for next year: If you felt rushed or frustrated, use this as an opportunity to find a CPA who prioritizes year-round communication and proactive advice (01:51, 03:48).

Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for success

Our clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.

Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.

Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. 

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. 

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

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Copyright 2026 Glenn Harper

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Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus

Running a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don’t just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you’re launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222.

Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus