Decision Points E67 - Redefining the CPA Firm: People-First Leadership and Strategic Growth with Teryn Grater

Teryn Grater never set out to build just another accounting firm. As a CPA and partner at ATKG Advisors in San Antonio, she helped lead a cultural transformation that turned a team of seven into a thriving 170-person firm - by flipping the traditional CPA model on its head. In this episode of Decision Points, Teryn shares how a relentless focus on people, purpose, and preparedness redefined what success looks like in the accounting world.

From her early days working at Dairy Queen to spearheading one of the region’s most progressive advisory firms, Teryn’s story is grounded in grit and intentionality. She dives into how ATKG Advisors abandoned the siloed, book-of-business model common in many firms, instead embracing collaboration, shared goals, and team-based success. The result? A firm that doesn’t just retain clients - but retains people.

Teryn explains why understanding your numbers is about more than compliance - it’s about control. Whether helping entrepreneurs prep for a sale or guide long-term strategy, she emphasizes the power of proactive financial planning and transparent advisory relationships.

She also shares how initiatives like their “bucket list” rewards program and walkabout sabbaticals are creating a workplace where employees are seen, heard, and reenergized. The intentionality toward fostering a strong culture built around the success of her team has been a catalyst for growth at ATKG Advisors.

This episode is a masterclass in modern leadership and the future of advisory services. Whether you’re a business owner, CPA, or someone looking to build a better team culture, Teryn’s approach proves that when people come first, performance follows.