Katie Thomas, CPA, MAcc – 2021 40 Under 40 Honoree

• Valedictorian, Undergraduate in Accounting, University of Kansas
• Valedictorian, Post Graduate: Masters in Accounting, University of Kansas
• Passed all four CPA exams on the first attempt, with a cumulative 94 average.
  
• Tax Accountant at EY
• Owner and Founder of Leaders Online, a digital marketing firm for accountants and professional service providers looking to increase their impact, influence, and income. The size and experience of firms we work with varies, as some firms are in the top 100 and some are just getting started.
• I have a large social media community with over 36,000 LinkedIn followers, 22,000 Facebook followers, 10,200 Instagram followers, 1,600 Youtube subscribers, and 430 Clubhouse followers.

What are you doing to make a difference in the profession, your community, the world?

I invest heavily into educating my online audience of accountants through social media, blogs, newsletters, a facebook group, and other online outlets, so no matter the firm’s resources, they have access to the education and resources to create their online presence. I’m a member/volunteer of the AICPA Tax Profession Strategic Advisory Group, a small curated group that meets to discuss how to better the AICPA and profession. I’m the founder of a book club for accountants who meet weekly to discuss how to grow as an accountant and to discuss real-life social issues/how to navigate them.

Favorite books/websites/podcasts/speakers/bloggers:

• Books: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie, The Way of The Wolf by Jordan Belfort, The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
• Any book, podcast, speaking session by Russell Brunson

What do you like best about the accounting profession?

For one, the opportunities in this career are endless. For those that want a structured career path to follow, there are options. For those that want to take an entrepreneurial route, there are also options. Two, the work is never boring. No matter what type of career path you desire, your day-to-day work will probably always look different. From new laws and regulations, to working with different industries, you’ll always be kept on your toes. Finally, the community you build with your clients, team members, and other accountants is like none other. This industry is full of some of the smartest, brightest minds who will challenge and support you growing every single day. I’m honored to be a part of such a great industry!

See all of the 2021 “40 Under 40” honorees.