About Us
We're Here to Be Your Finance Coach
Not your typical boring accounting course. We're real business owners who've been in your shoes, and we're here to help you master the money side of business — without the jargon or overwhelm.
Our Mission
Demystifying Business Finance for Every Owner
We believe every small business owner deserves to understand their finances without needing an accounting degree.
Our mission is to demystify bookkeeping and finance through friendly, practical education that actually makes sense — so you can run your business with confidence and clarity.
Our mission is to demystify business finance and empower every small business owner to make confident financial decisions — no accounting degree required.
— Lisa Thompson, Founder
Our Story
How We Started
Founded
American Finance Academy was born from frustration — the kind every small business owner knows. Our founder, Lisa Thompson, started her first business and felt constantly overwhelmed by the financial side.
1,000 Students
After mastering her own business finances, Lisa created the first courses and reached her first 1,000 students. Word spread fast — business owners were hungry for practical, jargon-free finance education.
Full Curriculum
Expanded to 12 courses covering every aspect of small business finance. Brought on David Rodriguez and Jennifer Park as co-instructors, adding tax and financial planning expertise.
5,000+ Students
Today, we've helped over 5,000 small business owners gain financial confidence. Our students don't just learn accounting — they make better decisions, reduce stress, and take control of their financial future.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
Simplicity First
We cut through the jargon and make finance accessible. If it can't be explained simply, we're not teaching it right.
Real Experience
Our instructors are actual business owners who've lived through the challenges. We teach from experience, not theory.
Practical Focus
Every lesson is designed to be immediately useful. Learn today, apply tomorrow — that's our promise.
Your Success
We measure our success by yours. When you gain financial confidence, we've done our job.
Your Instructors
Meet Your Instructors
Business owners and finance experts who actually get it.
Lisa Thompson
Founder & Lead Instructor
Former small business owner turned educator. 15+ years of entrepreneurial experience. Specializes in making complex financial concepts actually make sense.
David Rodriguez
Tax & Compliance Instructor
CPA with a passion for small business. Ran a restaurant for 8 years. Makes tax planning approachable and — dare we say — interesting.
Jennifer Park
Financial Planning Instructor
Serial entrepreneur and finance coach. Built and sold two businesses. Loves teaching cash flow management and growth planning.
By the Numbers
Our Impact So Far
The Curriculum
What You'll Learn
Six comprehensive courses that take you from financial uncertainty to complete confidence.
Bookkeeping Basics
Track income and expenses, maintain accurate records, and understand the foundation of healthy business finances.
Start Learning →Financial Statements Made Simple
Read and interpret profit & loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports with confidence.
Start Learning →Tax Planning for Small Business
Maximize deductions, understand quarterly taxes, and stay compliant year-round without the stress.
Start Learning →Cash Flow Management
Forecast your cash position, avoid shortfalls, and keep your business financially healthy through every season.
Start Learning →Payroll & Employee Finances
Set up payroll correctly, understand employer obligations, and stay compliant when you hire your first team.
Start Learning →Business Budgeting & Forecasting
Build realistic budgets, create financial forecasts, and make data-driven decisions for growth.
Start Learning →Get Started
Ready to Join Our Community?
Become part of a growing community of confident, financially-savvy business owners.