At DZA, our strength lies in the people who deliver excellent service every day. One of those leaders is Joe Lodge, a Principal who brings experience, attention to detail, and a strong sense of purpose to every project he supports.
In his role, Joe oversees audits, feasibility studies, and client relationships, ensuring each engagement is completed to the highest quality possible. He also plays a key role in the firm’s internal operations, supporting accounting and auditing standard changes, mentoring team members, and serving on the quality control team. “I enjoy feeling useful,” he says. “Whether it’s answering a question for a team member or helping a client problem-solve, I like knowing that my knowledge can help others.”
Joe’s path into accounting wasn’t planned from the start. While exploring majors in college at his wife’s suggestion, he discovered a passion for structure, rules, and clarity, leading him to pursue both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting from Brigham Young University. He later passed the CPA exam and found his professional home at DZA.
Although he once imagined becoming a computer programmer, Joe discovered that accounting was the better fit for how his mind works. “I’ve always been the one holding the rule book when we play board games. I like knowing how things are supposed to work and making sure they’re done right. It’s the same with auditing.”
Turning Complexity into Clarity
Among his most rewarding work are feasibility studies—complex, detail-oriented projects that help healthcare organizations plan for and secure funding for capital improvements. “These projects often take years, from initial planning through revisions and funding. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see them succeed, from new hospital wings, renovated facilities, and more space for patient care. Knowing our work played a role in making those improvements happen is really gratifying.”
In addition to client work, Joe leads accounting update presentations and helps implement changes across the firm. His curiosity and commitment to lifelong learning are clear in how he stays current. From regularly attending webinars, reviewing new standards, and actively contributing to firm best practices.
What Joe appreciates most about DZA is its independence and flexibility. “Being independently owned means we can make decisions quickly and adjust to meet client needs. We’re not waiting for permission from a corporate office. We can respond and improve right away.” That same flexibility extends to team members too, with remote work options, relaxed dress codes, and a culture that values balance and well-being.
From Board Games to Balance Sheets
Outside of work, Joe is a family man with a love of music, sports, and the outdoors. He and his wife have been married for 22 years and are raising four children together. They enjoy camping, playing board games, and watching movies. When he is not spending time with family, Joe enjoys playing sports, including volleyball, disc golf, golf, and watching college football and basketball.
A little-known fact about Joe? “I really love music. I was in band from 3rd grade through high school, playing cornet, baritone, and tuba. I also took piano lessons for a short time. I now try to teach myself guitar, and I sing in the church choir. It’s always been part of who I am.”
Joe also has lived several places around the world, growing up in North Carolina and Kentucky. He also spent several years living in Okinawa, Japan! “My dad was in the Navy, so we moved a few times. I went to college in Utah and met my wife there. We moved to Spokane after college to be close to her parents. I love the variety of things to do here. It is the perfect mix of city and country. I have the convenience of many stores and restaurants within a 5-10 minute drive, but I am also less than a mile from farmland and more rural areas. It’s really the best of both worlds,” he reflects.
He also finds inspiration in the quote “Journey before destination” from The Stormlight Archives, which reminds him to stay present. “You have to try to take time to enjoy life each day—not just on weekends or vacations.”
Joe’s story is a great example of the thoughtful, detail-oriented approach we bring to our work at DZA. Whether he’s helping clients navigate complex regulations or mentoring colleagues through change, Joe represents the care, consistency, and expertise our clients rely on. We’re proud to have him on our team. To learn more, email jlodge@dza.cpa.
