Interview Summary & Key Takeaways
In CPA Career Paths Podcast – Episode #116, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nancy McClelland, CPA, owner of The Dancing Accountant and co-host of the She Counts Podcast. This episode was packed with powerful reminders that success in accounting doesn’t come from fitting a mold—it comes from embracing who you truly are.
Nancy shared how she built a thriving, hyper-local CPA firm, blended creativity with professionalism, and found fulfillment by bringing her whole self to work. From community-building to redefining what a “professional CPA” looks like, this conversation offered meaningful insights for anyone navigating their accounting career.
Meet the Guest: Nancy McClelland, CPA
Nancy didn’t start her career as a CPA. She began as a bookkeeper and discovered her passion for tax along the way. Today, she has:
- Run her own CPA firm for 24 years
- Built a hyper-local practice in Logan Square, Chicago
- Created a firm that offers bookkeeping, accounting, tax, and advisory services to every client
- Founded Ask a CPA, a community that helps bookkeepers collaborate with tax professionals
And yes—she’s also a dancer.
As Nancy said, “You’re allowed to reinvent yourself as many times as you want in your life. When you figure it out, you just go for it.”
The Power of Personalizing Professionalism
One of my favorite parts of the episode was hearing how The Dancing Accountant name came to life. After years of operating under a traditional firm name, Nancy realized it didn’t reflect who she really was.
Her takeaway?
Professionalism doesn’t mean hiding your personality.
Nancy shared, “I believe very strongly in personalizing professionalism—thinking about people first as human beings, not just what they do.”
That mindset helped her attract the right clients, build deeper relationships, and enjoy her work more.
Why Community Changes Everything
A major theme of this episode was community. Nancy openly shared how isolating the profession can feel—and how transformative it is to find people who understand your journey.
She emphasized:
- Joining professional communities
- Attending conferences and roadshows
- Listening to podcasts that show diverse career paths
- Finding mentors and peers you can ask real questions
As Nancy put it, “When we feel alone, everything feels overwhelming. But when we have people to ask, it makes all the difference.”
Actionable Advice You Can Apply Now
Here are a few key actions inspired by this conversation:
- Lean into your personality—your interests belong at work
- Explore communities that align with your goals
- Attend at least one conference or local event
- Learn from others who are building careers differently
- Remember: there’s no single “right” path in accounting
Final Thoughts
This episode reminded me that accounting is far more creative, human, and dynamic than people realize. When you allow yourself to show up fully, you don’t just build a career—you build a life you actually enjoy.
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