PHILADELPHIA, PA — The accounting profession is undergoing a bold transformation with the launch of XcelLabs, a new platform aimed at equipping accountants with the tools and skills to excel in an AI-driven future. Founded by Jody Padar, known as the Radical CPA, and Katie Tolin, a growth strategist, the platform combines training, technology, and consulting to help professionals think strategically and become better advisors.
The Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs (PICPA) and CPA Crossings, LLC, have joined forces with Padar and Tolin as strategic partners and investors to support this initiative.
“To reinvent the profession, we must start by training the professional who can then transform their firms,” said Padar, an author and advocate for modernizing accounting practices. “By equipping people with data and insights that help them see things differently, they can provide better advice to their clients and firm.”
XcelLabs offers a suite of solutions designed to upskill accountants, including:
- XcelLabs Academy: Online courses covering AI basics, advanced advisory techniques, leadership, and practice management.
- Navi: A proprietary, patent-pending AI tool that converts unstructured data from emails, calls, and meetings into actionable insights while adapting to users’ unique needs and emotions.
- Training and Consulting: Tailored training programs for larger firms and ongoing coaching to enhance advisory practices and decision-making.
These resources, currently in beta, aim to help accountants not only keep pace with AI advancements but also elevate their capabilities and pride in their work.
“Accountants know they need to be more advisory, but not everyone can figure out how to do it,” noted Tolin, a member of the Accounting Marketing Hall of Fame. “AI will handle much of the lower-level work accountants do today, so we need to create that next-level advisor now. By showing accountants how to unlock patterns in their actions and turn client conversations into emotionally intelligent advice, we can create the accounting professional of the future.”
XcelLabs takes a unique approach by blending AI with high-impact strategy, focusing on empowering rather than replacing professionals. Under its mission, firms are encouraged to become “AI-X(SM)” organizations that use AI not just for efficiency but to achieve excellence in every facet of their operations.
“AI is transforming how CPAs work,” said Jennifer Cryder, CPA, CEO of PICPA. “XcelLabs is focused on helping the profession evolve with it. At PICPA, we’re proud to support a mission that aligns so closely with ours: empowering firms to use AI not just for efficiency, but to drive growth, value, and long-term relevance.”
With its innovative focus and support from industry leaders, XcelLabs aims to redefine accounting in the era of AI, preparing accountants to meet the demands of the future with confidence and skill.
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