In this episode #122 of the CPA Career Paths Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Erin, CEO of Well Balanced Accountants, about her unexpected journey into accounting, her bold career pivots, and how she ultimately built a business focused on balance, fulfillment, and sustainability in the profession.
This conversation stood out because Erin openly shared that her career path was anything but linear—and that clarity often comes after discomfort. From Big Four audit to industry, and eventually into coaching and consulting for accounting firms, Erin’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s okay to evolve.
Meet the Guest: Erin, CEO of Well Balanced Accountants
Erin founded her firm over 13 years ago and now works primarily with accounting firms as a coach and consultant. Her mission is simple but powerful: help firms grow while improving retention, leadership development, and overall balance.
As Erin put it, “I really feel like we can run our practices and operate as CPAs with more balance—it just takes intention and creativity.”
How One Professor Changed Everything
Erin didn’t plan to become an accountant. In fact, she told her parents, “Anything but accounting.”
That changed when a notoriously tough Accounting 101 professor handed back her exam and said, “Erin, you’re really good at this. You should be an accountant.”
That single moment shifted her entire career trajectory.
Key insight: Sometimes it only takes one person to recognize your potential before you see it yourself.
Starting at EY—and Taking a Big Leap
After majoring in accounting, Erin followed the traditional path: internship, then a full-time offer at EY. But she didn’t stop there. Wanting sunshine and a fresh start, she cold-called EY to request a transfer to San Diego.
She was initially told no—until the San Diego managing partner (a fellow alum from her small university) called her personally. That unexpected connection changed everything.
Lesson learned: Speak up for what you want. The worst answer is no—but sometimes the next call changes your life.
Burnout, Self-Awareness, and a Necessary Pivot
Although Erin enjoyed the people and opportunities at EY, she eventually felt deeply drained. As she shared, “Accounting is something I’m good at, but it’s not the most natural for me. That level of detail is exhausting.”
Her first career move after public accounting was reactive, not intentional. She admitted, “I remember telling the recruiter, ‘Just get me a job—anything besides this.’”
That experience taught her an important truth: escape isn’t the same as alignment.
Finding Coaching—and Finding Herself
Through coaching and self-development work, Erin rediscovered what energized her. She began coaching on the side while still working full-time, eventually taking the leap to build her own practice.
Ironically, after saying “anybody but accountants,” she found herself drawn back to the profession.
“Accountants are my people,” she said. “I don’t think I’ve ever met one I couldn’t connect with.”
Why Balance Is the Future of Accounting
Erin believes the profession is evolving—and that balance is no longer optional. Firms that prioritize boundaries, advisory services, and human-centered leadership don’t just retain talent—they perform better.
Her philosophy is simple: “If we’re more full and complete human beings, we’re better professionals. Everybody wins.”
Final Thoughts
Erin’s story proves that your CPA journey doesn’t have to follow a straight line to be successful. Awareness, courage, and intention matter far more than perfection.
If this episode resonated with you, make sure to join the CPA Career Paths monthly newsletter for insights, real stories, and strategies to help you master your CPA journey with confidence and clarity.