Mike Manalac shares his journey from Big Four audit to Fortune 5 companies like Walmart and Google, revealing how he built an authentic personal brand through hand-drawn accounting cartoons and thoughtful LinkedIn content. He argues that as AI commoditizes technical accounting knowledge, professionals must develop human skills like creativity, leadership, and authentic communication to future-proof their careers. The conversation explores why accountants can't afford to stay invisible in an increasingly competitive landscape where soft skills will separate the real deal from the "phonies."(00:00) - Welcome to AI Accounting Intelligence (01:57) - Mike's Journey: From East Coast to West Coast (04:12) - Working at Walmart: E-commerce and Innovations (13:53) - Transition to Google: Ads and Automation (18:15) - Mike from Accounting: Personal Brand and Projects (20:57) - Encouraging Accountants to Share Their Voice (26:57) - The Importance of Standing Out in Your Career (28:15) - Dealing with Self-Promotion and Social Media (29:12) - Authenticity in the Age of Influencers (31:34) - The Role of Humor and Creativity in Accounting (40:30) - The Future of Accounting: AI and Skills Evolution (50:15) - Final Thoughts and Advice for Accountants Connect with Mike Manalachttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemanalachttps://www.mikefromaccounting.com/Learn more about Trullionhttps://trullion.comConnect with Isaac Hellerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/isaachellerGet NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on Earmark to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.ReviewLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or PodchaserSubscribeSubscribe to the AI: Accounting Intelligence podcast in your favorite podcast app!This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media