Thriveal Podcast: Scaling Firms with Corporate Clarity | EP06 1 Credit
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Can accounting firms grow like corporations without losing their soul? In this forward-looking episode of Thrivecast, host Jason Blumer welcomes Jeremy Clopton, Managing Director of Upstream Academy, to discuss the complex transition from consensus-driven partnerships to streamlined, business-minded firm models. Together, they explore how structure, not sacrifice, is the key to modern growth, improved governance, and partner freedom.
With years of experience helping firms redefine leadership and accountability, Jeremy outlines how separating operations from governance enables clarity in decision-making and execution. He unpacks the risks and rewards of adopting corporate models, discusses the value of structured leadership roles, and challenges firms to let go of legacy habits that stall innovation. The episode also tackles the growing presence of private equity in accounting—whether as a growth engine or exit strategy—and the mindset shifts required to navigate that space effectively.
Key Topics:
Whether you’re a managing partner, rising leader, or firm strategist, this episode offers a blueprint for building scalable, modern firms without abandoning your firm’s DNA. Jeremy’s insights deliver the clarity needed to move from debate to execution.
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| License details | Credits | Status |
|---|---|---|
| BusIness Management & Organization for Certified Public Accountants (CPA-US) | 1 CPE | Approved |
| BusIness Management & Organization for Delaware Licensed Public Accountant (DE-LPA) | 1 CPE | Eligible |
| BusIness Management & Organization for Iowa Licensed Public Accountant (IA-LPA) | 1 CPE | Eligible |
| BusIness Management & Organization for Maine Licensed Public Accountant (ME-LPA) | 1 CPE | Eligible |
Credit
1
Course Level
Basic
Instructional Method
QAS Self Study
Group Internet Based
Pre-requisites
None
Advance Preparation
None
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Jeremy Clopton, Managing Director at Upstream Academy, joined the fi rm in 2018 after leading his own consulting company. Before becoming an entrepreneur, he spent 12 years with a national accounting fi rm where he led the fi rm-wide Big Data & Analytics and Digital Forensics practices.
Jeremy believes that people are a fi rm’s most important asset and is passionate about developing the next generation of accounting fi rm leaders. In addition, he believes the proper application of data and technology can positively transform fi rm practice management, growth, and culture.
At Upstream, Jeremy specializes in developing future leaders through the Emerging Leaders Academy, facilitating partner retreats, and helping fi rms launch new services. He is also a co-host of the podcast, The Upstream Leader.
Outside of work, Jeremy enjoys spending time with his family, hanging at the lake, watching Formula 1 racing, and all things Disney. Jeremy and his wife, Katie, have three inquisitive daughters, three energetic toy Australian shepherds, and a lovable Goldendoodle, Hiro.
Jason serves as Thriveal’s CEO, leading the strategy of which structures help Thriveal grow, and how to approach the profession with transformative education. Jason got his Bachelors in Accounting from Wofford College in Spartanburg, SC. His near 30 year career has been so varied, he’s performed every function in a firm and many other companies he has worked in. He has been a CPA since 1998. Jason shows genuine care as a leader of the Thriveal team, and is deeply thankful for the opportunity to lead alongside other people who do their work from the heart. Jason is a sought after international speaker, educator, coach, consultant, and friend to firm entrepreneurs all over the globe.
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