"Like this is not just a gig, but this is my career. You grow into wanting more of that for your clients and you start recognizing if a client isn't about that. The last thing I want is just agree to do a subpar job because a client doesn't really care and then they decide to care in two years and they look back at the history and they're like, 'This has been a mess.'"
-Christina Springstead

Christina Springstead, owner and founder of Springstead Solutions, returns to share what she's learned from handling complex cleanups and growing her business with intention. From refining systems to managing client expectations, Christina explains how bookkeepers can balance quality, communication, and growth—without burning out.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to spot hidden issues in cleanup projects before you quote
Why communication & transparency build client trust
How to manage pushback & set professional boundaries

To learn more about Christina and Springstead Solutions, here.

Connect with her on Linkedin.

Time Stamp

02:13 – Christina shares her background & path back to bookkeeping
04:34 – Lessons learned from recent cleanup projects
06:00 – The hidden costs of missing bank feed data & auto rules
07:42 – When CPA journal entries hide deeper problems
09:51 – How cleanup checklists evolved into better systems
10:51 – Why deeper diagnostic reviews protect both client & bookkeeper
12:06 – Expecting problems: guilty until proven innocent approach
13:01 – When "accurate" AR & AP numbers aren't accurate at all
14:45 – The danger of ignoring small errors today
15:34 – How to handle client pushback with transparency & purpose
16:22 – Choosing clients who care about accurate books
17:13 – Why clean books protect long-term business value
18:20 – Setting boundaries & recognizing red flags in clients
19:47 – The difference between hobby clients & business-minded ones
20:26 – Holding clients accountable for financial quality
21:02 – Managing stress & staying flexible during heavy work periods
22:45 – Communicating delays honestly with clients
23:57 – Building trust through consistency & openness
25:41 – Why clear communication increases client value perception
27:01 – Real client story: turning nonprofit chaos into clarity
28:55 – How bookkeeping education empowers boards & leaders
31:21 – Hiring a VA and assistant to buy back time & focus
32:53 – Building a business around your lifestyle, not fear
33:41 – Manifesting growth & designing your dream business
35:03 – Recommended books: Who Not How & Buy Back Your Time
37:33 – Why mindset, focus& vision drive real success
40:12 – How the new Summit experience connects the bookkeeping community

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EP505: Christina Springstead - The Bookkeeper's Guide To Boundaries, Cleanups & Growth

The Successful Bookkeeper Podcast