From Analysis to Testimony: Key Skills for a Career in Forensic and Valuation Services

Jun 12, 2025

This is a refreshed version of an episode from July 2021. Some voice distortion may be present. Please scroll down to find links to essential resources that have been developed since the original publish date. 

In this episode, we explore the many paths available to accounting and finance majors who aspire to work in forensics and valuation services particularly as an expert witness. Dean Driskell tells his journey as a forensic accounting and valuation professional. He and host, Josh Shilts, share pivotal moments that have defined their careers and the skills they consider essential for success.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Insights into the diverse career opportunities within the profession
• Practical advice on how to navigate the intersection of finance and accounting through the different stages of one’s career
• Understanding your audience and how it can impact your effectiveness as a professional
• Strategies for developing and honing skills that are essential for success and how to find opportunities to improve these skills

Check out our newest resource Welcome to a career in forensic and valuation services - early-career guidance, built for you (accessible to everyone)

Guest: F. Dean Driskell III, CPA/ABV/CFF, Executive VP, JS Held LLC
Host: Josh Shilts, CPA/ABV/CFF/CGMA, Dean Dornton

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RESOURCES FOR FURTHER EXPLORATION
If you’re using a podcast app that does not hyperlink to the resources, please visit our podcast platform to access the show notes with direct links. 

Check out early bird and special discounts for AICPA and FVS Section members, and ABV, CFF and CVFI credential holders

• AICPA Forensic & Valuation Services Conference, Oct 28-30, Aurora, CO, in person and online
• AICPA Expert Witness Skills Workshop, Oct 28-30, Aurora, CO,in person only
• Business Valuation School - Sep 8-12, Raleigh NC, in person only
• Business Valuation School - Dec 1-5, Live online

NEW RESOURCE Welcome to a career in forensic and valuation services - early-career guidance, built for you

The FVS Valuation Podcast archives

• Women Leaders in Business Valuation 
• The Business Valuation Profession
• Enhancing Professional Growth through AICPA FVS Section Resources and Participation

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FOLLOWING AICPA CREDENTIALS:

Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV®) – Visit the home page and check out the ABV infographic

Certified in the Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI®) – Visit the home page and check out the CVFI infographic

Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF®) - Visit the home page and check out the CFF infographic

This is a podcast from AICPA & CIMA, together as the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. To enjoy more conversations from our global community of accounting and finance professionals, explore our network of free shows here. Your feedback and comments are welcomed at [e-mail]