I had the pleasure of speaking with Keith Kenez, CPA, Tax Manager at AAFCPAs, on episode 93 of the CPA Career Paths podcast. Keith shared his incredible journey of pivoting into accounting at age 39, navigating the pressures of the busy season, and ultimately finding his place—and passion—within the profession.
This conversation wasn’t just about numbers. It was about purpose, persistence, and prioritizing mental health. Here are some key highlights and takeaways from our discussion.
💡 Highlights from Keith’s Journey
- Started accounting at 39 after careers in travel and tech
- Worked his way up from staff accountant to manager
- Overcame a mental health crisis during busy season
- Now thrives in trust taxation and high-net-worth planning
- Advocates for work-life boundaries and mental wellness
💬 Standout Quotes from Keith
- “I’ll recruit anyone. One in a hundred might work out, but that one can be life-changing.”
- “If your choice is 55 hours of great work or 70 hours of poor work, take the 55 of great.”
- “I was crying while reviewing tax returns. That’s when I realized, we can’t do this anymore.”
- “I don’t work well in big companies—I thrive in closely held firms.”
- “Mental health matters just as much as your billables.”
🎯 Key Lessons and Advice
1. Don’t Box in the Talent Pipeline
Keith encourages us to look beyond traditional college recruiting:
“What if someone in IT or admin has what it takes? Ask them—‘Have you ever thought about accounting?’”
2. Starting Late Is Brave—and Possible
Keith didn’t touch a balance sheet until age 39. He’s proof that it’s never too late to start:
“I give so much credit to people who switch careers later in life. It takes guts.”
3. Set Clear Boundaries for Better Work
Keith emphasizes sustainability over burnout:
“My work suffers after 8 PM. So I stop. And my quality has never been better.”
4. Use Tools to Protect Your Time
Keith uses AI to manage capacity. When his scheduler can’t fit more in, he speaks up.
“If I can’t take it on, I show my calendar. It’s not an excuse—it’s evidence.”
5. Mental Health Needs to Be Prioritized
“We’re not built for 80-hour weeks. Self-care isn’t optional anymore.”
🎲 Bonus: What Keith Does for Fun
When he’s not advising clients, you’ll find Keith playing complex board games online at BoardGameArena.com—his username? section59E2 (naturally).
Final Thoughts
Keith’s story is a reminder that fulfillment doesn’t come from following a straight path—it comes from listening to your gut, knowing your limits, and staying curious.
Whether you’re just starting out or considering a big change, this episode is full of encouragement, practical wisdom, and inspiration.
👉 Don’t miss future interviews like this!
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