We're relaunching an old show in this brand new Accounting AI podcast. Artificial Intelligence is rewriting the rules of accounting and finance. In this episode, aired a few weeks ago on the Accounting Voices Podcast, Rob Brown explores how AI is being used by firms, where it’s failing, and what professionals must do to stay relevant. From Big Four investments and tech vendor missteps to the growing fear of layoffs, this is a deep look at what’s really happening inside the profession.

You’ll hear how only 8% of firms are using generative AI, how Deloitte and PwC are investing billions, and why nearly half of accounting staff now fear automation. Rob also explains the leadership challenge — how to manage people, clients and technology when AI changes the nature of work itself.

This episode ends with practical steps for professionals and firm leaders to experiment safely, upskill intelligently and lead with curiosity, not fear.

Key Takeaways:

- Only 8% of accounting firms currently use AI, but adoption is accelerating.

- Big Four firms are investing billions to automate and scale audit, tax and advisory.

- AI is shifting careers — reducing entry-level roles but increasing demand for analysis and leadership.

- Mid-tier firms and tech vendors are moving fast, but errors still happen.

- Visibility and influence are now career insurance — not optional extras.

- Professionals must experiment safely, upskill and lead the conversation around AI.

Killer Quotes:

1. “AI won’t replace accountants, but accountants who use AI will replace those who don’t.”

2. “AI doesn’t take away your thinking. It gives you time to think.”

3. “In a world of automation, your human judgment is your job security.”

4. “AI is the intern that never sleeps, but it still needs supervision.”

5. “The firms that wait for certainty will be overtaken by those who start with curiosity.”

6. “AI isn’t the end of accounting — it’s the beginning of intelligent accounting.”

7. “The future belongs to the visible, not the invisible.”

You can watch this on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/doI88u39LYM

Come and join our Accounting Voices Collective on Linkedin to find out more about our shows and virtual networking events: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-voices

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The Accounting AI Podcast helps accountants, finance professionals and firm leaders understand how artificial intelligence is transforming the profession. Host Rob Brown brings together experts, innovators and firm leaders to interpret the impact of AI on accounting, from strategy and leadership to client service and people. The show offers clarity and confidence for professionals who want to stay relevant and informed without the technical jargon.

Watch every episode in video format on the Accounting Voices YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@accountingvoices

Rob works with accounting technology vendors, consultants and firms to create high-quality interviews, video content and thought leadership that raise visibility and credibility in the market. If your brand or story deserves more attention in the accounting space, connect with Rob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therobbrown

If you'd like to sponsor the show or partner with the Accounting Voices Network, reach out to Rob on LinkedIn and his team will be in touch to arrange a chat.