Becoming a More Human Advisor in an AI World Presented by Jody Padar, CPA — The Radical CPA / XcelLabs
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 1;00 pm. - 2:00 pm EDT Free
This webinar explores how CPAs can embrace artificial intelligence not as a threat, but as a tool to amplify their uniquely human advisory skills. Padar argues that as AI automates compliance work, the future of accounting lies in strategic advisory services — and those who develop a high AIQ (Artificial Intelligence Quotient) will have a distinct competitive advantage. The presentation introduces the four dimensions of AIQ — Prompting, Evaluating, Applying, and Iterating — and provides practical frameworks for using AI as a thinking partner in client conversations, decision-making, and firm leadership. It also showcases XcelLabs tools including Navi, an AI coaching copilot, and highlights how digital champions can drive meaningful change from any level within their organization.
Upon completion of this webinar, participants will be able to:
✔️ Reframe AI as a leadership tool—not just a productivity tool
Identify how AI shifts the CPA role from task execution to decision leadership, and describe one way to use AI to increase influence in client or firm conversations.
✔️ Evaluate and strengthen their AIQ using a real-world advisory lens
Assess their current capabilities across prompting, evaluating, applying, and iterating, and identify one gap that is limiting their ability to deliver higher-value client insights.
✔️ Use AI as a thinking partner to improve decision-making and client conversations
Demonstrate how to engage AI (like Navi) to explore options, surface blind spots, and reframe client situations—moving beyond answers to better judgment.
✔️ Apply emotionally intelligent communication strategies with AI support
Recognize moments of client hesitation, resistance, or decision fatigue, and use AI-guided prompts to lead conversations with clarity, confidence, and forward movement.
✔️ Take action as a digital champion by turning insight into adoption
Identify a workflow or advisory opportunity, use AI to build a simple proof of concept, and outline how to create buy-in and drive change within their firm
Instructional Method: Group Internet Based
NASBA Field of Study: Personal Development
CPE Credits: 1
Level: Basic
Advance Preparation: None
Program Prerequisites: None
Refunds & Cancellations: This course is offered free of charge. Therefore, there are no refunds given. In the event that The CPA Trendlines Academy (Thomas Advisors /d/b/a) must cancel a course, participants will be contacted via the email address submitted during registration.
For complaints or concerns, please contact our offices at 860.705.9468 or email at admin@cpatrendlines-academy.com
The CPA Trendlines Academy (Thomas Advisors /d/b/a) is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.nasbaregistry.org.