Scaling Smart: The Essential Role of Accounting in Startup Success

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In the world of startups, founders are often laser-focused on product development, leaving crucial back-office tasks like accounting as an afterthought. Yet, ignoring this foundational piece of the puzzle can lead to disastrous consequences when it's time to scale or raise funding. Without proper systems in place, businesses risk losing investor trust, facing compliance issues, or simply running into operational chaos. But how can entrepreneurs find a balance between driving their product forward and keeping their financial house in order? In this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, Jarie Bolander chats with the co-founders of KBA Partners—Kasia Rzepnikowska, Angel Zhao, and Barbara Legnitto Hansson—who turned their decades of experience in high-growth companies like New Relic into a boutique firm that helps startups navigate the complex world of finance and accounting. Drawing on their unique backgrounds in taking companies from fledgling startups to billion-dollar valuations, they offer actionable advice on building a financial infrastructure that’s not just about staying compliant but enabling growth. This conversation dives deep into how early-stage companies can avoid the common pitfalls of financial mismanagement, why accounting should be seen as an asset rather than a burden, and how having the right systems in place early can provide the peace of mind needed to focus on what really matters—growing your business. From setting up basic bookkeeping to managing the complexities of scaling, these experts share practical, real-world insights that every entrepreneur needs to hear. If you’re a founder who wants to sleep better at night knowing your financials are rock solid or an entrepreneur navigating the tricky waters of startup growth, you won’t want to miss this episode. Hit play and learn how to lay the groundwork for long-term success with guidance from industry veterans who’ve been there and done it. Tune in now and start securing your startup’s future! Links Barbara Legnitto Hansson LinkedIn Angel Zhao LinkedIn Kasia Rzepnikowska on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices