From Balance Sheets to Bestsellers: CPAs Who Took ‘The Road Less Traveled By’

CPAs are known for their meticulous attention to detail and their expertise in numbers. They are often seen as the unsung heroes behind the scenes, ensuring financial stability and guiding businesses toward success. This blog celebrates some of these superheroes who have ventured beyond their number-crunching roles and embarked on a remarkable journey as published authors.

If you are wondering what drives these CPAs to explore the path less traveled and venture into the literary realm, the answer might lie in their insatiable hunger for knowledge and new challenges. Or it could be the desire to connect with a broader audience, to inspire and entertain beyond the confines of balance sheets and financial reports.

Whatever the motivation, these CPAs have proven that their creative flames burn just as brightly as their analytical minds!

THOMAS CORLEY- Author, Speaker, CPA, CFP

Tom Corley is a multifaceted individual who has made significant contributions as an author, speaker, CPA, and Certified Financial Planner (CFP). Renowned for his insightful books, Corley has captivated readers with his wealth of knowledge and expertise in financial matters. His books, such as “Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits of Wealthy Individuals” and “Change Your Habits, Change Your Life,” delve into the secrets of success and offer practical strategies for achieving financial abundance.

With a focus on the power of habits and mindset, his works provide valuable insights and actionable steps to help individuals transform their financial lives and cultivate the habits necessary for long-term prosperity. Through his writing, Tom empowers readers to make positive changes, inspiring them to take control of their financial futures and unlock their true potential.

CECILIA “CECE” LEUNG- CPA, CFO Advisor, Financial Literacy Advocate, Keynote Speaker, Best Selling Author, and Podcast Host

Cecilia “Cece” Leung is a serial entrepreneur, a seasoned finance executive, and the co-founder of The Entrepreneur CFO, a women-owned business. With a remarkable track record, Cece has been honored as a two-time recipient of the prestigious Top 50 Women in Accounting award for 2022 and 2023 by Ignition Globally.

Her accomplishments have caught the attention of numerous media outlets, and is also celebrated as a best-selling published author. Her book, “Dear Accountant: Stories, Advice, and Explorations,” has captured the hearts and minds of readers worldwide. This captivating masterpiece is not only a celebration of diversity within the realms of accounting and finance but also a profound exploration of the career journeys of 20 influential thought leaders. Through her shared experiences and mentorship advice, Cece provides invaluable insights into the multifaceted world of accounting while inspiring and empowering aspiring professionals.

DAVID R. YORK- Attorney, CPA, Author, and Speaker

David R. York is an Attorney, Certified Public Accountant, and Managing Partner with the Salt Lake City law firm of York Howell & Guymon. David practices law in the areas of estate planning, tax, business planning, and non-profit entities. He is the co-author of two books, “Entrusted: Building a Legacy That Lasts” and “Riveted: 44 Values that Change the World”, which after its release, was the #1 Business Ethics book on Amazon. He also created the game Experience RivetsTM, which helps individuals, families, and businesses identify their unique and shared core values to assist them with holistic wealth transfer, effective estate planning, and team building. He has also written for Trusts & Estates Magazine, Estate Planning Magazine, and Investments and Wealth Monitor.

Image courtesy: www.davidryork.com

PETER MARGARITIS- CSP, CPA- Improv Virtuoso, Author, Speaker, Coach, Podcaster, Communication expert

From being The Accidental Accountant to becoming a catalyst for change in the accounting profession, Margaritis has demonstrated that the ‘road less traveled’ can lead to remarkable achievements and personal fulfillment.

In his book “Taking the Numb Out of Numbers,” he bridges the gap between financial language and business, enabling professionals to explain and present financial information with confidence and clarity. His book “Improv Is No Joke” combines improv principles with leadership strategies, providing valuable insights on fostering creativity, collaboration, and adaptability in both leadership and life.

KELLY RICHMOND POPE- CPA, Accounting Professor and Author

Kelly Richmond Pope is a renowned CPA, accounting professor, and author of “Fool Me Once: Scams, Stories, and Secrets from the Trillion-Dollar Fraud Industry”– which was named one of the “40 Nonfiction Books to Watch Out for in 2023” by the Next Big Idea Book Club. She specializes in risk assessment, forensic accounting, and white-collar crime research. Pope’s expertise lies in detecting financial fraud risk, evaluating corporate culture, and implementing compliance systems.

Her impactful work includes directing and producing the award-winning documentary “All the Queen’s Horses” and delivering a TED Talk on whistleblowing. Pope’s insights have been featured in esteemed publications, and she is also a sought-after speaker internationally. With a Bachelor’s degree from North Carolina A&T State University and a master’s in accountancy, and a doctorate in accounting from Virginia Tech, Pope has left an indelible mark on the field of accounting and as a best-selling author.

Bob Schlegel- CPA at Wilfrid Laurier University and Author

Bob Schlegel, a CPA at Wilfrid Laurier University, is known not only for his professional acumen but also for his literary contributions. His book, “Angels and Entrepreneurs,” is a testament to his entrepreneurial journey and the lessons he learned along the way. Despite not being a top student, he excelled in mathematics and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics.

He later became a CPA and embarked on his entrepreneurial journey, launching a chain of high-end senior living centers in Texas and the Pavestone Company, a leading supplier of concrete landscaping products. His book, “Angels and Entrepreneurs,” encapsulates his experiences and offers a lifestyle formula for starting a business and navigating the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship. It’s a testament to his resilience, business acumen, and the power of perseverance.

Wrapping Up

The world of CPAs who made their mark as published authors is a fascinating blend of analytical brilliance and creative flair. These unsung heroes fearlessly embrace the road less traveled, fueled by an insatiable hunger for knowledge and a genuine desire to connect with a broader audience.

But this is just the beginning of our exploration into the world of CPA authors. Many more extraordinary stories await. Stay tuned as we continue to uncover the remarkable accomplishments of these multi-talented professionals.

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