When most people think about taxes, empathy doesn’t usually come to mind. But for Pietro Canestrelli, co-founder of America’s Tax Defender, Inc., that’s exactly what drives every decision he makes.
With a six-year career at the IRS and over a decade working with taxpayers and businesses, Canestrelli has seen both sides of the system. But it wasn’t until personal tragedy struck that his professional journey took a profound turn.
“My brother had tax problems I tried to help with,” he says. “The IRS didn’t make him take his life — but they didn’t make it any easier either. Now, every client I help, I see as my brother.”
That moment forever changed how Canestrelli approaches his work — not just as a tax professional, but as an advocate.
From Solo Practice to a Mission-Driven Company
After leaving the IRS, Pietro opened a solo tax practice and helped clients navigate complex audits and collections. For five years, he handled every aspect himself — client work, strategy, compliance.
Then, alongside his wife Kristen, the founder of the company, he helped expand and rebrand their growing mission into America’s Tax Defender, Inc. — a national tax defense and strategic consulting company focused on resolving IRS issues and preventing future ones.
“We decided to grow, not for ego, but because we realized how many people were drowning in fear,” he says.
A People-First Philosophy
Canestrelli’s approach is rooted in one belief: tax problems don’t define people — but they do reveal a need for strong, compassionate guidance.
“We operate with passion and compassion,” he explains. “Taxpayers aren’t just numbers. They’re people — with businesses, families, and fears.”
This people-first philosophy is at the heart of America’s Tax Defender.
Advice to Entrepreneurs: Let Math Guide Your Courage
His message for aspiring entrepreneurs?
“It’s courage and math. Courage to move forward — math to know you’re making the right decisions.”
This mix of boldness and data-driven clarity is how Pietro helped scale a company that has saved clients millions in tax exposure.
The Road Ahead: Strategy, Scale, and Storytelling
Over the next two years, Pietro plans to help business owners save tens of millions of dollars in taxes — not just through defense, but by building smarter strategies from the start.
“It’s about more than solving problems,” he says. “It’s about preventing them.”
📘 Learn more about Pietro’s story and mission in his book on Amazon.
