In this special episode of The Woodard Report Podcast, Joe Woodard and Heather Satterley share key takeaways from their recent AI and Business Leadership course at Brown University. They break down how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the accounting profession—and what firms need to do today to stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment. This episode offers vision and action, from data and agentic AI to real use cases and regulatory realities.
Joe opens by clarifying that not all AI is created equal. The course categorized AI into three main types:
Joe explains, “You get a thousand specifics together and it starts to feel very general… but we’re not there yet.” Heather adds that AI is no longer futuristic—it’s essential. Firms that haven’t started experimenting with AI are already “two and a half years behind.”
One of the course’s biggest takeaways: AI is only as smart as the data that feeds it. “Data is everything,” Joe says. “We are the gatekeepers of financial data for our clients, and that gives us incredible power and responsibility.”
AI tools can analyze and act on this data—if firms have the right infrastructure and data hygiene practices in place. Joe and Heather stress the importance of integrating data strategy with tech decisions for maximum impact.
Heather introduces the concept of agentic AI—technology that can not only provide answers but complete tasks.
“Rather than asking, ‘How do I increase my stock portfolio by 10%?,’ agentic AI will actually go out and do it.”
That shift means firms will soon delegate more than just analysis to AI—they’ll assign full workflows. It’s a radical new model of productivity.
Joe shares how AI is already transforming tasks inside Woodard:
These aren’t future use cases—they’re happening now, and firms can start using them today.
Joe points out that early adopters will lead the profession.
“In about two years, you’re just going to be doing it to stay current. Right now, it’s a competitive advantage.”
AI offers firms the opportunity to scale services, improve advisory, and do more with fewer resources. Those who move first will benefit most.
Heather discusses the current “Wild West” of U.S. AI regulation. While the EU has taken the lead with robust AI legislation, U.S. laws remain fragmented. At the state level, 17 states have enacted 29 AI-related bills focused on data privacy and accountability.
“Right now, most U.S. regulation is aimed at stimulating innovation, not restricting it,” Heather explains.
But firms should remain cautious. Use private AI models, vet your data-sharing policies, and be prepared to pivot as new rules emerge.
Joe’s Top 3:
Heather’s Top 3:
Explore The Woodard Report Podcast Episode 119: AI on the Frontlines: Future-Proofing Your Firm in a Wild West World at woodard.com/podcast.
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