Interview Summary & Key Highlights
Before diving into Cristina Hale’s impressive career, here’s what stood out most from our conversation on CPA Career Paths, Episode #110:
- Cristina knew she wanted to be an accountant at 10 years old
- She built a 21-year career in public accounting, spanning Big Four and mid-sized firms
- She failed CPA exam sections multiple times — and still rose to leadership
- Her career proves there’s no single “right” path to long-term success in accounting
This episode is packed with honesty, resilience, and practical career wisdom.
Guest Introduction: Meet Cristina Hale
I had the pleasure of speaking with Cristina Hale, Tax Practice Leader at BDO, who currently resides in Tampa, Florida. Cristina describes herself as a “glorified tax nerd” — but outside of work, she’s deeply passionate about fitness, travel, and scuba diving.
Her journey is anything but ordinary, and it starts earlier than most.
Knowing Your Path Early — and Trusting It
Cristina shared that she decided to become an accountant at just 10 years old after sitting in on her mom’s accounting class.
“I sat through her accounting class and I was sold. I loved it… and I never changed my mind after that.”
While not everyone has that level of early clarity, Cristina emphasized that discovering what fits — even later — is completely normal.
Choosing Tax (and Why That Matters)
In college, Cristina quickly realized tax was the right fit.
“I don’t think any part of me ever wanted to be an auditor.”
She even failed Audit twice, later passing on the third attempt — a reminder that exam struggles don’t define career potential.
Key takeaway: Trying different areas early helps you find where you thrive.
The Reality of the CPA Exam
Cristina didn’t sugarcoat her CPA exam experience.
“Don’t wait. Don’t do what I did.”
She waited several years while juggling full-time work, relocation, and promotions — making the process harder than it needed to be.
Her advice:
- Take the exams as close to graduation as possible
- Don’t let fear of failure slow you down
- Passing is passing — perfection is unnecessary
“There’s no better feeling than when you get that last pass and you are done.”
Big Four vs. Mid-Sized Firms: What She Learned
Cristina began her career at KPMG, spent 14 years at PwC, and eventually found her home at BDO.
“The place I didn’t even apply to out of college is where I spent the majority of my career.”
Her perspective evolved over time:
- Big firms provide strong technical foundations
- Mid-sized firms allow broader exposure and impact
- Well-rounded experience builds stronger advisors
“The best CPAs are the ones that have seen a lot of different things.”
Growth Happens When You’re Uncomfortable
One of Cristina’s most powerful lessons came from learning on the job — without having all the answers.
“If you have to figure it out yourself, you’ll remember it for the rest of your career.”
From managing complex tax provisions to navigating unfamiliar structures, she leaned into responsibility instead of avoiding it.
Final Thoughts
Cristina’s journey is proof that resilience, curiosity, and adaptability matter more than a flawless résumé. Careers evolve — and that’s a good thing.
If you enjoyed this episode and want more real conversations like this, join my monthly newsletter where I share insights, career strategies, and lessons to help you master your CPA journey with confidence.
👉 Subscribe today and stay inspired.