Beyond the Tips: How One Chapter Helped Build a Business
Business referrals are one of the biggest reasons people join LeTip. But for many members, the relationships they build become just as valuable.
When Richard LaSpada, CPA, decided to leave his longtime firm and open RLS Accounting Services, he wasn’t just changing jobs. He was building a business from the ground up.
“I decided it was the right time in my career to open my own CPA practice,” Richard shared. “Once I announced this decision to the LeTip Lower Bucks chapter, the encouragement I received from the members was incredibly uplifting.”
Starting a business comes with a long list of decisions. Finding office space, setting up insurance, choosing technology, creating marketing materials, and handling countless details can feel overwhelming, even for someone with years of professional experience.
Richard still remembers announcing his plans during a chapter meeting.
“As I made the announcement from the podium, the applause and positive reactions reassured me that I was making the right choice.”
That encouragement didn’t end with applause.
Almost immediately, members of LeTip of Lower Bucks began offering their expertise. They answered questions, shared advice, and helped Richard tackle many of the challenges that come with opening a new practice.
“One of the greatest strengths of LeTip is the power of its connections,” Richard said. “Fellow members generously shared their experience, knowledge, and expertise to help me get my practice up and running.”
The support came from every direction. Members helped with office design, lease review, insurance planning, banking relationships, marketing materials, technology setup, signage, printing, and business consulting. Everyone contributed in the way they knew best.
One memory, in particular, still stands out.
“Sunday before my official opening, several LeTip members even helped assemble furniture, and we shared a sandwich tray from Chase at Manny’s Deli, a moment I’ll always remember fondly.”
It’s a small moment, but one Richard hasn’t forgotten. It wasn’t about referrals or business transactions. It was a group of people showing up because another member needed a hand.
Just four months after leaving his former firm, Richard officially opened RLS Accounting Services in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. Today, he has a growing practice and a dependable team working alongside him.
Looking back, Richard doesn’t hesitate to credit his chapter for helping him get there.
“I truly could not have accomplished this without the incredible support of the LeTip Lower Bucks chapter and will forever be grateful.”
Richard’s story is a reminder that referrals are only part of what members gain through LeTip. Sometimes the greatest value comes from knowing you’re surrounded by people who are willing to share their knowledge, lend their time, and celebrate your success right alongside you.
For Richard, opening RLS Accounting Services wasn’t a solo accomplishment. It was one made possible by a chapter that believed in him from day one.
