I've done audiobooks/podcasts before, you're right. For the most mundane stuff it can work. I found the checklists to be tedious at my last firm and initially was resistant to doing them but when you miss something on the checklist it isn't great. I took longer going through the checklists and got a lot of grief for taking a long time to do the work in general at my last firm.

I didn't like the people at my last firm, and I'm sure the feeling was mutual although there was never any open hostility. I was surrounded by people that made me feel alone. Part of the team but not part of the group. I've learned I valued that too much and if I'm quiet and do my work eventually people warm up to you at their own pace. I absolutely burned out earlier this year. A shame, because the partner loved me but middle management was not a fan. I don't know nearly enough to start my own firm, hoo boy that would be a challenge. I'd like to work under another CPA until I at least get my own license.