Expect to Learn:

• What helps FP&A professionals grow beyond technical skills
• Why career paths are rarely linear
• How to approach networking in a more effective way
• Why AI is more about processes than prompts
• How AI can help save time in finance roles

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “AI is a magnifier. If you don't know what you're doing, it will magnify that.” - Paul Barnhurst
• “Technical skills get you your first job, the soft skills get you promoted.” - Paul Barnhurst

Paul explains that FP&A is not just about reports and models. It’s about understanding the business and working with people. AI can help speed up tasks, but it doesn’t replace core skills like financial modeling, data understanding, and communication. If anything, those skills matter more now.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[00:00] – Trailer

[01:41] – 100 Episodes Milestone

[02:36] – What Makes FP&A Professionals Stand Out

[03:38] – Career Growth Is Not a Ladder

[04:25] – Early Career Struggles After Graduation

[05:47] – How to Approach Networking the Right Way

[06:37] – Turning Down Offers & Career Decisions

[07:28] – Moving into FP&A & Career Shift

[09:08] – Learning AI & Current Challenges

[10:06] – AI Skills, Courses & Future Focus

Josh LaSov is an FP&A and data professional with experience in consulting, ERP implementations, and analytics. He has implemented NetSuite and FP&A tools across many companies and previously co-founded Satori Reporting, a BI platform for NetSuite users that was later acquired by private equity. He is now the founder of Causi AI, where he focuses on building AI agents to help finance teams automate analysis, processes, and forecasting.

Expect to Learn:

• What makes FP&A professionals stand out today
• Why combining financial and operational data is critical
• How BI tools expand the role of FP&A
• How AI is improving analysis, forecasting, and workflows

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “AI helps you save a lot of time, but the judgment and analysis still need to be done by you.” - Josh LaSov
• “You can’t explain why numbers changed if you don’t understand the data behind them.” - Josh LaSov

Josh highlights that FP&A is no longer just about building reports or models. The role is shifting toward deeper analysis and faster decision-making. While AI can handle large amounts of data and speed up workflows, the real value still comes from understanding the business and communicating insights clearly.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Josh:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-lasov-7897334/

Homepage: https://www.cauzzy.ai/

AI Agent Marketplace: https://marketplace.cauzzy.ai/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@cauzzyAI

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:25] – Introducing Josh LaSov

[04:59] – What Great FP&A Looks Like

[09:52] – Building Satori Reporting

[13:19] – BI Tools and Reporting Challenges

[16:25] – Introduction to Causi AI

[25:05] – AI Agents and Accuracy Challenges

[29:22] – How FP&A Should Use AI

[36:10] – AI Tech Stack & Future Direction

[43:05] – Key Skills for FP&A

[46:53] – Get To Know Function

Vikram is the Chief Technology & Innovation Officer at Riveron, where he leads AI, digital transformation, and finance modernization initiatives. With nearly 25 years of experience, Vikram works closely with CFOs to transform finance functions through technology. He previously served as the President and CEO of Yantra, a company he founded and led for over 15 years before its acquisition by Riveron.

Expect to Learn:

1. Why most AI implementations fail and how to avoid common mistakes
2. The importance of enterprise AI strategy vs. siloed tool adoption
3. How FP&A is evolving into a forward-looking, decision-making function
4. What it takes to prepare your data, processes, and governance for AI

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. The real question is not which AI tool is best, it’s whether your finance architecture is ready to absorb AI.” - Vikram Bhandari
2. If you treat AI as a feature, you get incremental gains. If you treat it as a strategy, you get competitive advantage.” - Vikram Bhandari

Vikram emphasizes that AI should be treated as a capability multiplier rather than a shortcut. He highlights the importance of strong data foundations, governance, and enterprise strategy to unlock real value. The episode reinforces that the future of FP&A lies in combining machine intelligence with human judgment to drive better, faster decisions.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Vikram:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vikrambhandari/

Company: https://riveron.com/

Website: https://www.tutorialspoint.com/

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:08] – Introducing Vikram Bhandari

[03:16] – What Great FP&A Looks Like

[05:21] – AI in Finance Today

[05:09] – Why Most AI Implementations Fail

[11:05] – Enterprise AI Strategy vs. Siloed Tools

[15:16] – AI Readiness: Data, Decisions, Governance

[17:54] – AI Forecasting: Calibration & Trust

[23:14] – Skills Finance Needs in an AI World

[34:24] – AI Agents, Excel, and Productivity vs. Strategy

[41:40] – Final Advice on AI Strategy

[47:52] – Closing Thoughts

Vincent is a seasoned enterprise software sales leader with over 25 years of experience. Vincent is currently the Northeast Director of business development at UHY, a CPA firm, and works on advising CFOs through his partnership with UHY. Ilana is the Chief Financial Officer at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, where she oversees a comprehensive portfolio, including accounting, treasury, compliance, and financial planning.

Expect to Learn:

1. Why ROI calculations often fail and how Return on Change provides a more effective approach.
2. How to align financial decisions with business outcomes.
3. The evolving role of FP&A professionals in driving decisions beyond traditional reporting.
4. Key strategies for managing change during financial transformations.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. “The real value comes when technology enables people to do different, more impactful work.” - Vincent Messina
2. “As CFOs, our job is to help guide the organization by providing the right insights for informed decision-making.” - Ilana Esterrich

Vincent Messina and Ilana Esterrich emphasize the importance of shifting from traditional ROI to Return on Change in financial transformations. They highlight the crucial role of FP&A professionals in driving strategic decisions and managing change effectively.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Vincent:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vmessina/

Company: https://uhy-us.com/

Follow Ilana :

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Ilanaesterrich/

Website: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:30] – Introducing Vincent Messina

[02:55] – Introducing Ilana Esterrich

[05:00] – What Great FP&A Looks Like

[08:00] – Why ROI Fails in Transformations

[13:00] – Shifting from ROI to Return on Change

[19:00] – The Importance of Consensus in Transformation

[25:00] – Business Outcomes vs. Software Decisions

[30:00] – How to Make Change Work

[35:00] – Mindset Shifts in CFOs and FP&A

[40:00] – Final Thoughts

Jeff Greenfield is the co-founder and CEO of Provalytics, a "cookie-less" attribution solution that helps marketers demonstrate the value of upper-funnel channels like CTV, podcasting, and more. Before founding Provalytics, Jeff built and led multiple digital marketing companies, pioneering the use of data-driven approaches to improve marketing performance.

Expect to Learn:

1. The challenges marketers face in proving campaign ROI and how to overcome them
2. Why FP&A professionals should understand marketing’s data models
3. How marketers and finance teams can align on data-driven goals
4. How to ensure marketing budgets are being spent effectively

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. “A great FP&A relationship is when marketing can demonstrate that their efforts are working and walk away with the budget they need.” – Jeff Greenfield
2. “It’s important to understand that marketing is not just about clicks, it’s about capturing attention.” – Jeff Greenfield

Jeff Greenfield shared valuable insights on the challenges of marketing attribution and how finance teams can collaborate with marketing to ensure efficient budget allocation. He emphasized the importance of understanding marketing data and aligning on a common measurement framework for better decision-making.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Jeff:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffgreenfield/

Company: https://provalytics.com/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:40] – Jeff’s Background

[03:33] – What Does Great FP&A Look Like?

[08:21] – Measuring Revenue from Podcasts

[11:25] – From Chiropractic to Marketing

[15:10] – Founding Provalytics: Marketing Attribution

[18:48] – The Google Tax in Attribution

[29:46] – Why Google Isn't Enough Anymore

[37:49] – AI and Podcast ROI

[41:07] – Top Technical Skill for FP&A

[48:00] – Last Questions & Final thought

Nick is the author of Practical Charts (Amazon #1 New Release) and the upcoming Practical Dashboards. He has taught thousands of professionals globally, including teams at NASA, Bloomberg, Visa, the United Nations, Shopify, and more. He is also the first educator authorised by Stephen Few to teach his foundational data visualisation workshops.

Expect to Learn:

1. Why understanding the "job" of a chart is more important than the data itself
2. The key skills needed for creating effective charts
3. Common mistakes in data visualisation and how to avoid them
4. Why empathy for your audience is crucial when designing visuals
5. How to decide when to use default charts vs. creating custom visuals

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. “The real job of a chart is to serve people, not the software.” – Nick Desbarats
2. “Data visualisation is not about the tool, it’s about the message you want to convey.” – Nick Desbarats

Nick Desbarats shared valuable insights on creating effective data visualisations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the purpose behind each chart. He highlighted key skills, common mistakes, and the need for empathy with your audience.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Nick:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickdesbarats/

Company: https://www.practicalreporting.com/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[03:33] – Nick’s Background

[05:32] – Key Skills for Data Visualisation Experts

[09:50] – Executive to Data Viz Educator

[12:35] – Book Recommendations

[19:35] – Moving Beyond “It Depends”

[26:08] – Common Finance Chart Mistakes

[34:13] – The Pie Chart Dilemma

[37:54] – AI in Data Visualisation

[45:56] – Chart Type Selection Skills

[58:30] – Final Wrap-up

Cynthia Kenny is a CHRO and C-suite partner with over 30 years of experience in human resources, focusing on change management and organizational transformation. Deborah Hill is an HR leader with over 10 years of experience leading HR teams in tech-focused and tech-enabled companies. She specializes in building culture and driving talent initiatives, and has managed businesses with revenues ranging from $400M to $5B.

Expect to Learn:

1. How HR and FP&A can partner to drive organizational success
2. The importance of aligning company, team, and individual goals
3. Best practices for goal-setting and performance management
4. Why flexibility is important when managing goals throughout the year
5. How to build trust and collaboration between HR and FP&A

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. “Great FP&A is about turning financial data into actionable insights for business leaders.” - Deborah Hill
2. “Real success happens when HR and FP&A work together, understanding each other’s worlds and creating synergy.” - Cynthia Kenny

Cynthia Kenny and Deborah Hill provided valuable insights on the critical partnership between HR and FP&A, emphasizing the importance of aligning goals across departments to drive organizational success. They discussed how clear, actionable goals can lead to better decision-making, stronger collaboration, and improved business outcomes.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Deborah:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-hill-8a24771/

Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-tire-distributors/

Follow Cynthia:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthiakennymaccp/

Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunland-asphalt/

Follow Glenn:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[05:44] – What Great FP&A Looks Like

[10:07] – COVID Finance & HR Decisions

[16:55] – Hiring, Headcount & Data Issues

[23:49] – HRIS, ERP & Source of Truth

[27:29] – Aligning Corporate & Individual Goals

[36:07] – Flexible Performance Management

[47:56] – Effective Goal-Setting Practices

[59:17] – Final Takeaways & Career Growth

Rey del Valle is a strategic CFO with deep roots in FP&A, having built his career at organizations such as FedEx, Norwegian Cruise Line, MTV Networks, and The Walt Disney Company. He has since served as CFO and advisor for companies including Ticketmaster, AXS, Guitar Center, OpenX, and several entertainment-focused fintech platforms.

Expect to Learn:

1. What great FP&A looks like beyond spreadsheets and reporting
2. The biggest mindset shift required when moving from FP&A to CFO
3. Why curiosity and operational understanding matter in finance
4. How collaboration plays a key role in successful turnarounds
5. How benchmarks and driver-based models uncover opportunities

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. “FP&A is about taking data and turning it into actionable insight so the business can actually do something with it.” - Rey del Valle
2. “Our role in finance is not to look at numbers for their own sake, it is to help the company make better decisions.” - Rey del Valle

Rey shares practical insights on how FP&A teams can become stronger strategic partners by understanding business drivers, building models that support decision-making, and working closely with operations. He emphasizes that finance leaders create the most value when they listen first, stay curious, and help teams translate strategy into execution, especially during periods of change.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Rey:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/reydelvalle/

Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/everestadvisorsllc/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[03:12] - What Great FP&A Really Means

[04:56] - Choosing the CFO Path

[07:49] - CFO of the Year Nomination

[10:00] - Architect vs Engineer in Finance

[13:38] - Execution and Overcommunication

[16:41] - Understanding Business Drivers

[21:26] - From Reporting to Steering

[29:03] - Finance Inside Operations

[33:25] - Turning Around a Business

Aswin is a strategic finance leader with over a decade of experience across global technology companies. He specializes in connecting strategy to execution and helping finance drive business outcomes. Currently the VP of Finance at Qualtrics, he brings deep expertise across corporate, product, and go-to-market finance. He has previously held leadership roles at Microsoft and HubSpot.

Expect to Learn

1. What great FP&A looks like as a strategic business partner
2. Why is trust required to move from insight to action
3. How culture and vision shape high-performing FP&A teams
4. The importance of simple financial models over complex ones
5. How FP&A teams create strategic value that influences the future

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. “Taking something from insight to action requires trust. Without trust, nothing really moves.” - Aswin Saravanan
2. “Great FP&A is when the team can be a proactive strategic partner and actually change the trajectory of the company.”- Aswin Saravanan

Aswin Saravanan shares practical insights on how FP&A teams can move from reporting to truly influencing business outcomes. By building trust, setting a clear vision, and keeping financial models simple, finance leaders can turn insight into action. The conversation reinforces that strategic value comes from helping the business make better decisions about the future.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Aswin:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aswinsaravanan/

Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/qualtrics/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[03:56] - What Great FP&A Looks Like

[05:23] - Why Finance in Tech

[07:20] - Outcome-Based Pricing Risks

[10:49] - Leading Finance at Qualtrics

[13:13] - Culture and Vision in FP&A

[17:16] - Building Team Culture

[22:47] - Trust and Core FP&A Skills

[26:18] - Defining Strategic Value

[32:39] - Driving Operational Excellence

[34:37] - Simple Financial Modeling

Ned Harding is the Chief Product Officer at Enso Analytics, a platform that helped define the self-service analytics category. He started coding at eight years old, taught himself from PDP-11 manuals, and has spent the last two decades creating tools used by hundreds of thousands of analysts worldwide. He’s a product guy through and through, and he’s on a mission to help teams work smarter with their data.

Expect to Learn:

1. Why most data tools fall short when it comes to real team collaboration
2. The importance of repeatability and testing in FP&A workflows
3. How to avoid common pitfalls with AI and overfitting in forecasting
4. Why Excel is both a lifesaver - and a landmine
5. How to build a true “culture of analytics” across your entire org

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. “The biggest successes happen when teams collaborate - analytics shouldn’t be a solo act.”- Ned Harding
2. “If your team’s not getting value from your data work, you’re not doing your job.”- Ned Harding

Ned shares practical insights on how FP&A teams can become strategic partners by embracing collaborative, repeatable analytics. He emphasizes the value of integrating data across teams, avoiding AI pitfalls, and applying the scientific method to drive consistent, data-informed decision-making.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Ned:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ned-harding-34a57526/

Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/enso-analytics/

Website - https://ensoanalytics.com

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:43] – Meet Ned Harding & His Journey to Enso

[06:04] – Accidental Start in Analytics

[10:59] – Turning Tools into a Business

[14:49] – Why Enso Analytics?

[25:43] – Analytics Across the Org

[29:16] – Context is Everything

[35:51] – The Risk of Overusing AI

[43:56] – Are We in an AI Bubble?

[47:07] – Top Skills for FP&A Pros

[49:54] – The Excel Debate

[53:12] – Fun Final Questions

Jeffrey is a Senior Managing Director and Head of Capital Markets Advisory at Riveron, a leading advisor to the Office of the CFO and Private Equity. Early in his career, Jeff was a Managing Director at Goldman Sachs, where he helped execute IPOs in the technology sector for over a decade. Afterward, he spent more than 15 years as a portfolio manager investing in disruptive public and private companies. For the last eight years, Jeff has served as a trusted strategic advisor to pre-IPO companies, guiding them toward successful public exits.

Expect to Learn:

1. Why finance professionals play a crucial role in the IPO process
2. How to prepare a company financially for a successful public listing
3. The importance of building financial trust with public investors
4. How to evaluate the readiness of your financial systems and team for the IPO process

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. “The biggest change from private to public is transitioning from over-promising to under-promising and over-delivering.”- Jeff Bernstein
2. “Financial integrity isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about being transparent, avoiding gimmicks, and sticking to metrics that have real meaning.”- Jeff Bernstein

Jeff shares valuable insights on the complexities of going public, managing quarterly earnings, and maintaining investor trust. He also discusses how FP&A teams can help steer the company through financial reporting, forecasting, and strategic decision-making post-IPO.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Jeffrey:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-bernstein-498a23158/

Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/riveron/

Website - https://riveron.com/

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:42] – Meet Jeff Bernstein

[04:58] – Transitioning to Public Company

[08:36] – The Role of FP&A in IPO

[12:44] – Investor Trust and Forecasting

[17:10] – Financial Integrity

[21:58] – Preparing for the IPO Process

[26:35] – Stress-Testing Forecasts

[30:42] – Earning Investor Trust

[34:18] – Organizational Behaviour Shift

[37:33] – Key to Success in IPOs and SPACs

Bryan Lapidus is the Director of FP&A Practice at AFP, where he serves as a subject matter expert on financial planning and analysis. With more than 20 years in FP&A and treasury at organizations like American Express and Fannie Mae, Bryan brings deep knowledge of corporate finance. At AFP, he develops thought leadership, leads advisory councils, and curates content that helps professionals thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.

Expect to Learn:

1. The two core competencies every great FP&A professional must master
2. Why “getting out from behind the screen” matters for business insight
3. How AFP curates learning and networking experiences for finance professionals
4. What to expect from AFP’s FP&A Forum and Annual Conference
5. How to avoid low-value work and focus on driving business impact

This episode highlights the evolving role of FP&A, emphasizing the need for both strong technical skills and human-centered business insight. Bryan Lapidus reminds us that tools like AI are valuable, but true impact comes from understanding the business and adding strategic value. Continuous learning and community are key to thriving in today’s finance landscape.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Bryan:

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/bryan-lapidus-fpac

Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/association-for-financial-professionals/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[03:33] – What Is AFP?

[05:38] – What Makes Great FP&A?

[13:34] – Inside the AFP Conference

[18:13] – How AFP Chooses Conference Tracks

[23:12] – AFP FP&A Forum Highlights

[27:30] – How Soft Skills Shape Career Growth

[33:27] – Top Technical Skills

[37:27] – Eliminating Low-Value Work in FP&A

[43:23] – Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts

Ben Pierce is an experienced executive with over two decades of experience in the enterprise software industry. Currently, he leads Workday Adaptive Planning’s global strategy, growth, and innovation efforts. Prior to joining Workday, Ben held senior roles in several companies, including River Logic, Tidemark, and IBM, where he honed his expertise in analytics, financial software, and business leadership. His career has been shaped by his passion for leveraging technology to improve business operations and drive impactful change.

Expect to Learn:

1. Why Ben believes the future of FP&A is in AI and analytics
2. The importance of challenging the business with actionable insights
3. How to make FP&A tools work for you, not just as a data repository
4. What to consider when choosing and implementing FP&A software
5. The balance between strategic planning and flexible budgeting processes

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. "A great FP&A partner doesn’t just provide data, they come to the table with a point of view and push you to do better." – Ben Pierce
2. "At the end of the day, it’s not about the tool, it’s about the implementation and how you engage with it." – Ben Pierce

Ben Pierce offers invaluable insights into FP&A, emphasizing the need for technology to not only streamline processes but also enhance decision-making capabilities. His advice on selecting the right FP&A tools and the importance of having a supportive implementation partner is essential for any finance team looking to modernize their planning processes.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Free Trial of Workday

Try Workday Adaptive Planning free for 30 days - https://forms.workday.com/en-us/sales/adaptive-planning-free-trial/form.html?locale=enus&aud=ada&stage=ce&size=all&pblr=wd&assettype=oth&productfocus=pl&utm_medium=evnt&utm_source=evlv&step=step1_sales_contact

Follow Ben:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benpierce23/

Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/workday/

Website - https://www.workday.com/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:50] – From Engineering to Software Leadership

[04:56] – What Makes Great FP&A

[09:23] – The Importance of Customer Success

[12:05] – How to Choose the Right FP&A Tool

[13:33] – Advice for Moving to the Vendor Side

[16:03] – The Future of AI and FP&A

[18:12] – Bridging the Gap Between Planning and Analytics

[21:04] – The Role of Zero-Based Budgeting

[25:46] – Best Practices for Annual Budgeting

[28:06] – Handling Headcount Planning Challenges

[32:28] – Getting the Most Out of FP&A Software

[36:52] – Closing Thoughts and Final Advice

Noam Sever is a seasoned finance executive with over 15 years of leadership across global tech and manufacturing firms. At Cellebrite, he leads a multinational FP&A team overseeing full P&L ownership, strategic planning, and operational excellence. His expertise includes business modeling, systems implementation, and data-driven decision-making. Known for his structured approach and people-first mindset, Noam is passionate about building agile finance organizations that deliver real business impact.

Expect to Learn:

1. Why “tiny gains” and small process improvements compound to drive big FP&A impact
2. How to scale FP&A processes from startup chaos to structured efficiency
3. The importance of aligning finance with go-to-market and sales operations
4. Why trust, communication, and curiosity are the top soft skills in FP&A
5. The framework Noam uses to evaluate when and how to scale teams, tools, and processes

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

1. As a company scales, FP&A must shift from being reactive to becoming a proactive business partner.” – Noam Sever
2. Start simple, make it repeatable, and always leave room to improve. That’s the foundation of great FP&A.” – Noam Sever

Noam Sever offers a blueprint for building impactful FP&A teams through simplicity, structure, and strategic business partnership. His insights emphasize that real value comes from understanding the business, earning trust, and continuously improving processes to drive meaningful results.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Noam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/noamsever/

Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/cellebrite/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode:

[04:11] – Defining Great FP&A

[07:12] – The Power of Tiny Gains

[10:54] – Favourite Company Stage

[13:18] – FP&A at Scale

[15:59] – Evolving Budget & Forecast

[21:41] – Advice for First-Time Forecast Leads

[25:24] – Scaling Teams & Tools

[33:20] – Traits for Early-Stage FP&A

[36:40] – Rapid-Fire & Final Thoughts

Andrew Hull is a financial executive with over two decades of experience in CPG. Currently the Vice President of Finance at UNFI Canada, Andrew has a proven track record of partnering with business leaders to deliver results through strategic insights and principled financial analysis. With a competitive spirit and passion for team leadership, Andrew shares his unique approach to FP&A, analytics, and the importance of actionable storytelling.

Expect to Learn:

1. The three pillars of great FP&A are technical skills, storytelling, and actionable decisions.
2. Why Andrew advocates for changing FP&A to “FA&P” and focusing more on analytics.
3. Lessons learned from leading finance during the pandemic.
4. Key metrics for success in the distribution industry include variable margin and truck utilization.
5. Practical advice for accelerating budget processes and focusing on analytics that drive results.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. "The most value FP&A can add is when we take complex data and distill it into actionable insights." - Andrew Hull
2. "Variable margin is the backbone of understanding financial performance in a distribution business."- Andrew Hull
3. "A one-page visual with clear recommendations is the best way to communicate with executives."- Andrew Hull

Andrew Hull shared a wealth of knowledge for FP&A professionals, including rethinking the role of analytics to the importance of actionable storytelling. His practical advice on managing inflation, leading during a crisis, and accelerating the budgeting process offers valuable lessons.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Andrew:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewhull4/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:59] - Meet Andrew Hull

[02:50] - Redefining Great FP&A

[06:46] - Career Highlights in CPG

[10:35] - Leading Finance at UNFI Canada

[18:55] - Managing Inflation with Analytics

[22:24] - The Art of Storytelling in FP&A

[35:47] - Revolutionizing the Budget Process

[51:20] - Beyond Work: Hobbies and Passions

[58:07] - Closing Thoughts

Brett Hampson has spent over a decade in corporate FP&A, working with some of the world’s largest companies. He is the author of The FP&A Operating System, a book that outlines his approach to establishing a high-functioning FP&A department. Brett is also the founder of Forecasting Performance, a platform that promotes best practices in financial analysis and forecasting.

Expect to Learn

1. What grassroots finance transformation entails and why it’s preferable to technology-centric approaches.
2. How to implement Brett’s FP&A Operating System and FP&A Flywheel framework to drive efficiency and value.
3. The importance of setting a clear vision and objectives for FP&A teams to move from reactive to proactive operations.
4. How to leverage attribution analysis and storytelling to enhance FP&A’s influence on business decisions.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

1. “Grassroots finance transformation happens when each person on the team has their own vision and works towards solving specific challenges.” - Brett Hampson
2. “Technology alone doesn’t solve problems. It might fix one, but often creates new ones if cultural issues aren’t addressed first.” - Brett Hampson

With insights into creating effective FP&A systems and teams, Brett Hampson provides a refreshing perspective on FP&A transformation. He highlights the importance of people, process, and then technology, in that order, as the foundation for a high-performing FP&A team.

Follow Brett:

Website - https://bretthampson.gumroad.com/l/proactive

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-hampson/

Newsletter - https://blog.forecastingperformance.com/subscribe

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:12] - Brett’s Background and Introduction

[05:17] - The Creation of The FP&A Operating System

[08:04] - Developing a Proactive FP&A Culture

[13:22] - Grassroots FP&A Transformation

[16:32] - People and Process Before Technology

[29:28] - Building the Right Team and Culture

[35:11] - Establishing Efficient Processes with the FP&A Flywheel

[39:52] - Case Study: Turning Around Forecast Accuracy

[52:16] - Final Advice and Wrap-Up

Jordan is an entrepreneur, event producer, author, and Microsoft Excel MVP based in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. He is widely known for his work helping professionals master Excel, data analysis, and modern spreadsheet practices. Jordan has authored several well-known books, including Advanced Excel Essentials, Dashboards for Excel, and Becoming a Data Head. In addition to his work in Excel education, he produces global events that bring together leaders across finance, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Expect to Learn:

• How Jordan’s career twists shaped his approach to Excel, data, and problem-solving
• Why most professionals only scratch the surface of Excel’s capabilities
• Jordan’s perspective on why VBA is outdated and what could replace it
• Why vertical learning beats beginner–intermediate–advanced training paths

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Excel isn’t dead, but the way we develop in it needs to change.” – Jordan Goldmeier
• “You don’t become great by learning everything. You become great by going deep where it matters.” – Jordan Goldmeier

Jordan also shares the story behind his latest project: a developer-style environment designed to help Excel power users work faster, cleaner, and more confidently, without relying on outdated tools like VBA. He explains why Excel should be treated as part of a broader finance tech stack and how modern coding concepts could dramatically improve spreadsheet workflows.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Jordan

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordangoldmeier/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode:

[02:15] – Jordan’s Career Journey

[08:30] – Setbacks, Resets, and Growth

[15:00] – Writing Books on Excel

[25:59] – How Excel Is Really Used

[29:12] – Why VBA Is Outdated

[33:54] – Building Better Tools for Excel

[42:25] – Advice for FP&A Professionals

[47:16] – Creating Your Own Network

[52:12] – Rapid-Fire & Final Thoughts

This is a podswap episode from The Growth-Minded CFO, hosted by Lauren Pearl and Alex Louisy, featuring Kate Gulliver, CFO and CEO of Wayfair.

The path to becoming a CFO today is rarely a straight line. Finance leaders are increasingly coming from diverse backgrounds, bringing a broad range of skills to the role. After all, the best CFOs don’t just manage numbers; they shape strategy, foster talent, and drive innovation across an organization.

In this episode of The Growth-Minded CFO, hosts Lauren and Alex sit down with Kate Gulliver, CFO and CAO of Wayfair. It's an insightful conversation about leadership, adaptability, and impact. Kate shares her journey from investor relations to overseeing finance, legal, talent, and corporate communication, offering a rare look at the evolution of a top executive.

She reflects on the challenges of stepping into new roles, the power of an entrepreneurial mindset in a high-growth company, and the lessons learned from integrating finance with people strategy. Kate also opens up about balancing a demanding career with motherhood and the importance of fostering an inclusive, authentic workplace.

In this Episode:

[00:58] - Meet Kate Gulliver: Wayfair's Multifaceted Leader

[01:53] - Journey Through Wayfair: From IPO to CFO

[06:55] - Transitioning to Talent: A Leap of Faith

[10:28] - Learning and Leading in Talent Management

[16:08] - The CFO Perspective: Integrating Talent and Finance

[17:11] - Navigating the CFO Role: Insights and Reflections

[18:50] - The Importance of Cross-Departmental Communication

[21:30] - Wayfair's Latest Launch: Wayfair Verified

[24:49] - Operationalizing New Ideas at Wayfair

[29:59] - Balancing Work and Life

[33:23] - The Importance of Authenticity at Work

Connect with Kate:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-gulliver-3b242762

Connect with Alex:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexlouisy/

Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenepearl/

Follow The Growth-Minded CFO:

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-growth-minded-cfo/id1773662367

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Upflow_FRM

Glenn Snyder brings years of experience in finance and FP&A, focusing on budgeting, strategy, and improving financial processes. Rosemary Linden is the founder and president of Momentum CFO, where she provides fractional CFO services and FP&A consulting. With over 25 years in the industry, she recently won CFO of the Year from the San Diego Business Journal and is passionate about mentoring women in finance.

Expect to Learn:

• How clarity, influence, and foresight define great FP&A work
• The importance of empathy and communication in leadership roles
• Real-world lessons from career failures and how to bounce back
• Best practices for budgeting and data governance
• How to make sure your financial forecasting is both transparent and trustworthy

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “FP&A is all about helping leaders make better, faster decisions.” – Glenn Snyder
• “The way you say things can matter just as much as what you say in FP&A.” – Rosemary Linden

Glenn and Rosemary shared valuable insights on the strategic role of FP&A, the importance of empathy in leadership, and how to learn from failures. Their stories and advice will help anyone in finance make a greater impact within their organization. Tune in for more practical tips on navigating the world of FP&A!

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Rosemary Linden:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosemarylinden/

Company -  https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumcfo/

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode:

[02:04] – What makes great FP&A

[07:00] – Glenn’s career failure and lesson

[11:06] – Rosemary on empathy and tone in FP&A

[19:09] – Managing failure

[26:00] – Unusual FP&A requests

[38:40] – Streamlining budgeting and setting targets

[45:30] – Importance of data governance

[49:40] – FP&A’s role in raising capital

[54:35] – Final thoughts on FP&A’s impact

Omar Choucair brings over 25 years of experience in corporate finance, accounting, governance, and FP&A. His background spans private equity, public company software businesses, and M&A deals, having successfully navigated over 40 major transactions. With expertise in financial software solutions, he leads Trintech in helping businesses automate and streamline critical financial processes.

Expect to Learn:

• The evolving responsibilities of CFOs and the strategic value they provide in today's organizations
• How AI and technology are revolutionizing finance and FP&A functions
• The critical role of FP&A in helping companies understand and act on data
• Why intellectual curiosity and technology expertise are essential for modern FP&A professionals
• Key insights on hiring and developing top FP&A talent

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “To be successful in FP&A, you have to be technically savvy. If you are afraid of technology, you will not do well in FP&A.” – Omar Choucair
• “The CFO is the voice of reason, objective under pressure, and the protector of the company and its employees.” – Omar Choucair

Omar discusses the increased pressure on CFOs, the growing reliance on AI tools like ChatGPT, and the importance of being inquisitive to drive better financial insights. He also touches on the importance of collaboration between FP&A and other departments to drive business success and better decision-making.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Omar:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/omar-choucair-cpa-80264815/

Company - https://www.trintech.com/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode:

[02:04] - Omar’s Career Journey and Experience in Finance

[04:41] - Defining Great FP&A and What It Looks Like in Practice

[07:19] - The Role of Technology in Modern FP&A

[11:40] - Leveraging AI to Drive Efficiency in Finance

[14:04] - The Key to Unlocking FP&A Success

[26:21] - Best Practices for Building and Leading an FP&A Team

[33:13] - Integrating Business Intelligence into FP&A Workflows

[38:55] - Managing the Budgeting Process and Alignment with ELT

[44:27] - Key Skills for Future FP&A Leaders and Career Advice

Rishi Sapra is a Group Manager at Avanade, a global technology consulting firm, and a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP). With over 20 years of experience in major firms such as Deloitte, KPMG, HSBC, and Accenture, Rishi combines his financial expertise with cutting-edge data and AI solutions. Rishi is also the founder of Power Platform Finance, where he runs an accelerator program to teach finance professionals how to use tools like Power BI, Power Query, and semantic modeling to transform business data into actionable insights.

Expect to Learn:

• Why learning Power Query is a must-have skill for every finance professional
• The mindset shift from being a consumer of data to becoming a creator of data solutions
• How to build simple, effective data models and dashboards using Power BI
• Tips for applying semantic models and data storytelling in financial reporting
• How AI and business intelligence tools are changing the role of FP&A professionals

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “As a finance professional, you need to understand not just the data, but how to create the solutions that bring out insights from it.” – Rishi Sapra
• “It’s less about learning every tool, and more about understanding the fundamentals that remain the same, regardless of the software.” – Rishi Sapra

Rishi Sapra highlights the importance of shifting from being a consumer to a creator of data solutions within finance teams. By mastering tools like Power BI and embracing a mindset of data storytelling, finance professionals can unlock actionable insights and drive meaningful change. Rishi’s advice empowers finance teams to not just adapt to technology, but to lead the way in transforming business intelligence.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Rishi:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rsaprano/

Website - www.rishisapra.com

Company 1 - www.msfabrictraining.com

Company 2 -  www.learndatainsights.com

Company 3 - www.powerplatformfinance.com

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode:

[02:04] - Rishi’s Career Journey

[04:41] - Career Expectations After Accounting

[07:19] - Becoming a Microsoft MVP

[11:40] - Why Finance Needs Power BI

[14:04] - Shifting from Consumer to Creator

[26:21] - Best Ways to Learn BI

[33:13] - Integrating BI into FP&A

[38:55] - Dashboard & Visualization Tips

[44:27] - Best Career Advice

John Glasgow is the CEO and co-founder of Campfire, leading the charge in AI-native ERP innovation for modern finance teams. CJ Gustafson, the founder of Mostly Metrics and a former CFO, brings real-world insights on scaling, AI adoption, and the shift from executive to creator. Libby Francke, Head of Finance at Klarity, shares her experience modernizing data infrastructure and running a lean, high-impact finance function with Campfire. Kevin Neary, VP of Finance at Brainly, reflects on managing global finance operations and how AI is helping his team boost efficiency and productivity.

Expect to Learn:

• Why Campfire is building an AI-native ERP with its own large accounting model
• How to identify when legacy systems like QuickBooks are holding your company back
• What makes great FP&A beyond technical skill: EQ, storytelling, and sniff tests
• How to think tactically about AI adoption, agents, and automation

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Trying to make the most of AI and low-cost solutioning is how we’re building the finance function of the future.” - Libby Francke
• “A lot of companies are stuck in pilot purgatory; they test AI, think it’s cool, but don’t know how to roll it out.” - CJ Gustafson

This special episode of FP&A Unlocked captures the momentum and insight from the Campfire Finance Forward AI Summit, showcasing how finance leaders are navigating the rapid shift toward AI-native systems. From foundational models to practical automation, the conversations with John Glasgow, CJ Gustafson, Libby Francke, and Kevin Neary highlight that the future of finance isn’t just about technology; it’s about strategic thinking, clean data, and bold leadership.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow John:

LinkedIn -  www.linkedin.com/in/johnglasgow/

Follow CJ Gustafson:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cj-gustafson-13140948/

Follow Libby:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/libby-francke-cpa-831b4854/

Follow Kevin:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-neary-cpa/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:37] - Overview of the Campfire Summit & Key Panels

[07:39] - Interview: John Glasgow on Building Campfire and AI-Native ERP

[15:47] - Interview: CJ Gustafson on Scaling, AI Hype, and EQ in Finance

[29:00] - Interview: Libby Francke on ERP Migration, Data, and Lean Finance Teams

[37:58] - Interview: Kevin Neary on Global Finance Ops and Getting AI-Ready

[44:52] - Final Reflections & Takeaways

James Myers has led multiple large-scale planning system implementations for global organizations. He specializes in modeling and financial planning solutions that help companies reduce reliance on spreadsheets, improve collaboration, and achieve scalable performance management. His consulting work spans industries including manufacturing, technology, and retail, where he focuses on aligning processes, people, and systems for long-term success.

Expect to Learn:

• The signs your FP&A system is broken and ready for replacement
• How to select the right planning or modeling tool for your company size
• The real cost behind system implementation (and how to plan for it)
• Why clean data and cross-functional collaboration are essential
• Best practices for RFPs, vendor selection, and proof of concept testing

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Reducing reliance on Excel isn’t about killing it, it’s about freeing up your team to think strategically.” - James Myers
• “The role of FP&A is to be a true value partner to the business—combining data, strategy, and people.” - James Myers

James Myers reminds us that FP&A transformation is less about tools and more about mindset. By focusing on vision, data quality, and collaboration, finance teams can build systems that scale with their companies instead of holding them back. If you’re preparing for a software upgrade or implementation, this episode will help you do it right the first time.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow James:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesmyersw/

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[00:00] - Trailer

[01:58] - What Makes Great FP&A

[03:17] - Signs Your Current System is Broken

[07:03] - The Hidden Cost of Excel Dependency

[08:16] - How to Choose the Right FP&A Tool

[13:35] - Setting a Vision Before Selecting Vendors

[22:52] - RFP and Demo Best Practices

[30:36] - Negotiating the Best Deal Without Cutting Corners

[36:35] - Why Change Management Matters Most

[47:00] - Implementation Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

[52:40] - Final Thoughts: Building the Future of FP&A

Moataz Mukhaimer is a strategic and financial advisor with over 20 years of experience supporting SMEs across the MENA region. A graduate of McGill University (MBA) and Boston University (BA in Accounting & Finance), he specializes in helping businesses identify challenges and align strategy with execution. His client portfolio spans sectors including retail, med-tech, e-commerce, ed-tech, manufacturing, and software.

Expect to Learn:

• Why cash from operations is the true measure of business value
• How to design KPIs that align with both strategy and financial outcomes
• Why most pricing problems are rooted in poor positioning, not high costs
• How to diagnose problems through both numbers and conversations
• The two most important habits for connecting finance with strategy

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Most companies aren’t overpricing, they’re underpricing and positioning poorly.” - Moataz Mukhaimer
• “Cash from operations is the truest form of value creation.” - Moataz Mukhaimer

Moataz Mukhaimer reminds us that the power of FP&A lies in understanding the whole business, not just the numbers. By aligning strategy with financial planning, simplifying KPIs, and focusing on communication, finance professionals can become essential partners in growth. If you're ready to elevate your impact, this episode is for you.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow  Moataz:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/moataz-mukhaimer/

Website - https://moatazmukhaimeradvisory.com/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[04:05] - What Defines Great FP&A?

[05:56] - Great Planning in Action

[08:40] - Cash Flow is Queen

[14:15] - Why Budgeting Often Fails

[26:45] - Pricing: The Hidden Problem

[30:04] - Moataz’s Four-Part Strategy Framework

[33:07] - Diagnosing Problems Through People and Numbers

[36:27] - Advice for Connecting Finance to Strategy

[40:09] - Hosting Business Talk and Giving Back

[43:36] - FP&A Fast Five

[48:31] - Final Advice: Always Tie Finance to Strategy

This episode is a pod swap from The Diary of a CFO. We’re sharing it here to help you discover another excellent show in the finance leadership space. All content belongs to the original podcast and host Wassia Kamon.

In this episode of The Diary of a CFO, Wassia Kamon sits down with Paul S. Young, EVP and CFO at Liberty Bank, to uncover what modern finance leadership looks like in an era of rapid transformation. With decades of experience across institutions like TD Bank, Citizens Bank, and Siemens, Paul shares how CFOs can lead with purpose by aligning strategy, driving innovation, and cultivating future-ready talent. From intelligent automation to authentic leadership, this episode offers a comprehensive framework for CFOs navigating complexity at scale.

Paul S. Young is the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Liberty Bank, the oldest and largest independent mutual bank in the U.S. With over 25 years of experience spanning finance, digital transformation, and strategy, Paul is a respected leader in shaping the future of finance. He serves on the AICPA Future of Finance Leadership Advisory Group and the AICPA Council, helping steer the next generation of financial professionals.

Expect to Learn

• How Liberty Bank integrates strategic planning into its budgeting cycle for real impact
• Why creating a Business Transformation Office and EPMO was a game-changer
• Where AI and intelligent automation fit in the finance function, without losing the human touch
• How finance apprenticeship and rotational programs are developing future leaders
• Paul’s leadership philosophy is rooted in authenticity, gratitude, and work-life balance

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “You prepare for this all your life. Have the courage of your convictions and don’t be afraid to fail.” – Paul S. Young
• “AI won’t replace people, but it will replace the people who don’t embrace AI.” – Paul Young

Connect with Guest Paul S. Young

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pyoungcpa/

Liberty Bank: https://www.linkedin.com/company/liberty-bankct/

Liberty Bank (Website): https://www.liberty-bank.com/

AICPA Future of Finance Leadership Advisory Group: https://www.aicpa-cima.com

Connect with Host Wassia Kamon on

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wassiakamon/

Connect with The Diary of a CFO Podcast on

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-diary-of-a-cfo-podcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thediaryofacfopodcast/featured

Website: https://www.thediaryofacfo.com

X (Twitter): https://x.com/thediaryofacfo?

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@csuitestories?

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] – Introduction to Paul Young and His Role at Liberty Bank

[00:02:00] – From Prudential Insurance to CFO: Paul's Career Journey

[00:07:11] – Lessons from the Transition to Corporate CFO

[00:12:15] – Aligning Strategic Planning and Budgeting for Agility

[00:18:40] – Launching the Enterprise Project Management Office (EPMO)

[00:24:00] – How the Business Transformation Office Enables Intelligent Automation

[00:31:00] – AI in Finance: Balancing Tech and Human Judgment

[00:37:20] – Cultivating Talent Through Apprenticeships and Rotational Programs

[00:46:00] – Paul’s Leadership Principles: Authenticity, Gratitude, and Balance

[00:47:45] – Personal Reflections: Family, Boating, and Life as “PopPop”

Carl Seidman is a seasoned management consultant, fractional CFO, and educator. With over 20 years of experience advising companies from startups to Fortune 500s, Carl also teaches at Rice University and runs finance training programs for corporate teams. He brings a unique blend of technical mastery, business strategy, and teaching skill, making him the perfect voice to discuss why FP&A must go beyond the spreadsheet and into the realm of influence.

Expect to Learn:

• Why teaching is an essential skill for every FP&A professional
• How to tailor your message to different audiences, from analysts to executives
• Why oversharing details can derail your influence
• How to spot when your audience is confused (and how to pull them back in)
• Practical strategies for teaching finance without using jargon or acronyms

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “The best presenters speak to the audience’s needs, not their own ego.” - Carl Seidman
• “FP&A is often the bridge, translating finance for operations and operations for finance.” - Glenn Snyder

Carl Seidman reminds us that the heart of FP&A isn’t just analysis, it’s communication, clarity, and connection. Through teaching, finance professionals can elevate their impact, build trust, and drive real business understanding. This episode reinforces that the most effective finance leaders don’t just present data, they help others make sense of it.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Carl:

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/carlseidman

Website: seidmanfinancial.com

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:30] - Meet Carl Seidman

[04:48] - What Does “FP&A as a Teacher” Mean?

[08:20] - Teaching Early in Your Career

[19:33] - Who Does FP&A Need to Teach?

[25:54] - Teaching Financial Impact

[29:19] - Ditch the Jargon

[35:44] - Spotting Confused Audiences

[41:59] - Teaching for Long-Term Growth

[43:58] - Celebrity on a Deserted Island

Matt Brattin is a finance leader turned entrepreneur. After serving as a CFO, Matt launched two startups: Siplify, which helps automate and streamline sales commission processes, and Close Pack, a tool aimed at making financial reporting more efficient. He’s also writing The Art of Analytics, a book that ties together strategy, storytelling, and behavioral insights. Matt brings a deep understanding of finance, technology, and human behavior to every conversation.

Expect to Learn:

• Why most commission plans fail, and how to fix them
• The value of simplicity in finance systems and processes
• How behavioral insights and empathy can improve analytics
• Why storytelling matters more than models at the executive level
• Tips for building tools that actually make a difference for finance teams

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Nobody gives a crap about your model. They want the story, and they want the numbers to make sense." -  Matt Brattin
• "Authentic leadership; there is no substitute for that. Life is too short to act like somebody else when you're at work." - Matt Brattin

Matt Brattin shows how true FP&A impact comes from simplifying complexity, leading with authenticity, and combining technical skill with a deep understanding of human behavior. His journey from CFO to founder highlights the value of clarity, behavioral insight, and thoughtful system design.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation,

close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Matt:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattbrattin/

Website -  https://siplify.io/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:27] - Matt’s Mission: Saving a Million Hours

[04:11] - What Great FP&A Really Looks Like

[08:26] - Leadership Lessons from the CFO Seat

[14:10] - Writing ‘The Art of Analytics’

[21:53] - Building Siplify and Close Pack

[28:16] - Real Talk on Sales Commissions

[37:02] - Advice for First-Time Commission Owners

[45:04] - FP&A Skills: From Excel to Selling the Story

[55:49] - Final Thoughts and How to Connect

Willian Gomes is a seasoned FP&A and data analytics professional currently supporting EMEA supply chain operations at a global consumer goods company. Based in Brazil, he holds an MBA in Project Management and advanced certifications in machine learning from Stanford. Willian brings deep expertise in automation, process improvement, and financial storytelling, having saved tens of thousands of work hours through custom-built tools and insights-driven analysis.

Expect to Learn:

• How to evaluate whether an automation project is worth pursuing
• The challenges of implementing machine learning in corporate environments
• How Python enables scalable automation over Excel
• How cultural awareness enhances business partnering across global teams

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Finance isn’t just about numbers, it’s about helping people make better decisions." – Willian Gomes
• "Empathy is a skill that’s not often associated with finance, but it’s essential for business partnering." – Willian Gomes

Willian Gomes shows how true FP&A impact comes from blending technical expertise with empathy, communication, and continuous learning. His journey across industries and continents highlights the value of automation, cultural awareness, and a people-first mindset. This episode is a testament to how finance leaders can drive change by being both data-driven and deeply human..

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for general ledger, revenue automation, close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Willian:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wjgomesds/?originalSubdomain=br

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:48] - Willian’s Background and Global Role

[04:03] - What Great FP&A Looks Like

[11:46] -  Moving Back to FP&A from Data Analytics

[19:52] - Where FP&A Struggles with Analytics

[27:16] - Saving 7,000 Hours with Automation

[38:55] - Must-Have Tech and Soft Skills

[44:36] - Travel and Fun Facts

[47:49] - Final Advice for FP&A Pros

In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Todd Niemann, Treasurer at Varo Bank, who shares his unique path through finance, treasury, and FP&A across multiple startup banks. Todd discusses how he helped launch and scale three new banking institutions, how FP&A supports better decision-making in banking, and why he believes Python is transforming financial analysis.

Todd Niemann is the Treasurer at Varo Bank, where he oversees treasury and FP&A functions. A CFA charterholder with an MBA from Brigham Young University and a BA from Utah State University, Todd has helped build treasury and FP&A teams for three startup banks. His background spans banking, investing, and corporate finance, making him an authority on financial analytics and modeling in regulated industries.

Expect to Learn:

• How to build and scale FP&A and treasury functions at startup banks
• Why speed and accuracy are essential hallmarks of effective FP&A
• How to forecast effectively when historical data doesn’t exist
• The benefits of learning Python for finance automation and analytics

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “The best FP&A teams don’t wait for perfect data; they create frameworks that help the business move forward anyway.” - Todd Niemann
• “In finance, speed matters. The faster you can analyze accurately, the more valuable you are.” - Todd Niemann

Todd Niemann brings clarity to how FP&A drives smarter banking decisions through data, speed, and precision. His journey shows the power of combining technical skill with curiosity and innovation. This episode proves that the future of finance belongs to those who build, automate, and never stop learning.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for general ledger, revenue automation, close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Todd:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddniemann/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:58] - What Makes Great FP&A?

[05:27] - Building FP&A at New Banks

[10:37] - Banking and Regulation

[15:08] - Challenges of FP&A in Early-Stage Banks

[23:08] - Learning and Applying Python in Finance

[31:51] - Predicting Deposits with Big Data

[38:21] - Recommended Reading for Finance Pros

[40:19] - Top Technical and Soft Skills for FP&A

[42:48] - What Todd Would Change About FP&A

[47:00] - Wrapping Up the Conversation

Alex Fabry is the founder and managing partner of KFA, a private investment and advisory firm focused on growing and scaling businesses in Saint Louis. Before founding KFA, Alex started his career in FP&A roles at Saber, where he supported multi-billion dollar business units, managed complex budgets, and played a pivotal role in the $1.2 billion sale of Active Network to Global Payments. Alex also has experience as a Vice President at Charles Bank Capital Partners. He holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

Expect to Learn:

• How FP&A provides a solid foundation for leadership and private equity operator roles.
• The significance of automation in improving FP&A efficiency and enabling more strategic analysis.
• Why private equity and FP&A require different skill sets but can work in tandem to drive business growth.
• Key skills FP&A professionals need to transition into private equity.
• The value of relationships and trust in both FP&A and private equity environments.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “The real value of FP&A is in helping businesses make decisions, not just report numbers.” - Alex Fabry
• “Being a business partner looks different depending on the business—it's about them, not you." - Alex Fabry

Alex shared thoughtful and practical insights into the evolving role of FP&A in driving business success and the transition to private equity. He highlighted the importance of automation and strategic analysis in improving financial operations, the value of building strong business relationships, and how FP&A professionals can leverage their skills to thrive in the private equity space. Alex’s journey serves as a valuable playbook for those looking to navigate the complexities of both FP&A and private equity, emphasizing the need for adaptability, operational efficiency, and a keen understanding of the bigger business picture.

Campfire: AI-First ERP:

Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for general ledger, revenue automation, close management, and more, all in one unified platform.

Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy

Follow Alex:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-fabry/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:27] - Alex’s Background

[03:50] - What Makes Great FP&A?

[14:03] -  The Three Key Questions in Finance

[18:38] - Private Equity Operations and FP&A

[27:14] - Early FP&A Experience at Saber

[36:36] - The Reality of Private Equity

[43:16] -  Lessons from 100 LinkedIn Posts

[53:47] - The Biggest Excel Lesson

[54:32] - Wrapping Up the Conversation

Nate is a Senior Managing Director at Riveron Consulting, where he leads the private equity practice. With extensive experience supporting portfolio companies, Nate brings a sharp understanding of how to structure FP&A functions that drive value from early investment to exit. Jamie is Director of Financial Operations at Trivest Partners, a middle-market private equity fund. Jamie works closely with FP&A teams across Trivest’s portfolio, guiding companies through growth, transformation, and exit, with a clear focus on data-driven decision-making and operational excellence.

Expect to Learn:

• How private equity firms are shifting from financial engineering to operational value creation.
• Why FP&A is becoming a core strategic partner in PE-backed companies.
• The importance of early investment in data, tech stacks, and FP&A infrastructure.
• The difference between corporate FP&A and PE-backed FP&A environments.
• What skills and traits do PE firms value most when hiring FP&A professionals?

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Private equity used to be all about financial engineering; now it’s about operational value creation.” - Jamie Lukaszewski
• “The most successful FP&A teams are the ones that align financial and operational KPIs to tell a complete story.” - Nate Heeren
• "You're not going to win many races with your legs tied together; you've got to be set up for success." - Nate Heeren

Nate and Jamie shared thoughtful and practical insights into the evolving relationship between private equity and FP&A. They emphasized the growing importance of operational value creation, the foundational role of trust and alignment, and the need for robust data infrastructure to support strategic decision-making.

Get Certified with the FPAC Credential

Earn the only FP&A credential that proves your expertise and commitment to the profession.

Use TheFPAGuy-FPAC for $150 off the Exam

Use TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP for $100 off the Exam Prep Platform

Learn more: https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications

AFP FP&A Forum: All insights. Zero spin.

March 23 – 25 in Indianapolis

This immersive, three-day event is built for financial professionals, by financial professionals, and it’s designed to help you sharpen your skills, stay on top of trends, and connect with peers who understand your challenges.

Learn more: https://www.financialprofessionals.org/events/meetings/afp-fp-a-forum

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Nate:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-heeren-91a1644/

Website - https://riveron.com/

Follow Jamie:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-lukaszewski-b1766119/

Website - https://www.trivest.com/team/

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder/

Website - https://onemomentintimenovel.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:11] - Guest Introduction

[02:58] - What Great FP&A Looks Like

[04:42] - PE Trends & Market Shifts

[07:31] - Early vs. Late Stage Projects

[12:02] - PE & FP&A: Building Trust

[17:32] - Corporate vs. PE FP&A

[22:24] - Hiring: What PE Firms Look For

[32:49] - Successful FP&A-PE Relationship

[41:57] - Final Advice & Wrap-Up

Andrej Lapajne is the CEO and founder of Zebra BI, a company dedicated to revolutionizing the way businesses communicate financial insights. With over 20 years of experience in business intelligence and data visualization, Andrej has helped organizations across industries implement better reporting systems. He is a passionate advocate for the International Business Communication Standards (IBCS), a methodology he helped popularize to improve data reporting and visualization.

Expect to Learn:

• Why is consistent, clear communication in data visualization vital for FP&A professionals?
• The key skills FP&A professionals need to master such as data modeling and communication.
• How Zebra BI helps businesses generate actionable insights with ease.
• Andrej's methodology for data visualization and the importance of standardized charting in business reporting.
• Key advice on mastering data modeling and communication skills for finance professionals

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Effective communication is the key to FP&A. You can have all the data, but if you can’t communicate the insights, it’s wasted.” - Andrej Lapajne
• “AI is transforming the way we consume analytics and freeing up time for more strategic decision-making.” - Andrej Lapajne
• "If your dashboard doesn’t show variances, it’s not actionable. You’re just looking at pretty colors." - Andrej Lapajne

Andrej Lapajne shared a clear and insightful perspective on the future of data visualization in financial planning and analysis. He emphasized the need for standardized communication, the importance of clean data, and the power of automation in transforming analytics. Together with Paul Barnhurst, this episode highlights the critical role of FP&A professionals in driving business decisions and how the integration of effective data visualization and modern technology will shape the future of the profession.

Get Certified with the FPAC Credential

Earn the only FP&A credential that proves your expertise and commitment to the profession.

Use TheFPAGuy-FPAC for $150 off the Exam

Use TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP for $100 off the Exam Prep Platform

Learn more: https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications

AFP FP&A Forum: All insights. Zero spin.

March 23 – 25 in Indianapolis

This immersive, three-day event is built for financial professionals, by financial professionals, and it’s designed to help you sharpen your skills, stay on top of trends, and connect with peers who understand your challenges.

Learn more: https://www.financialprofessionals.org/events/meetings/afp-fp-a-forum

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Andrej Lapajne:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lapajne/

Website - https://zebrabi.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:51] - Andrej’s Background

[02:38] - What Great Data Visualization Looks Like

[08:34] - Getting Into Data Visualization

[13:15] - Founding Zebra BI

[17:50] - IBCS: The Method Behind the Charts

[26:14] - Key Elements of a Compelling Visual

[34:54] - The Impact of AI on Analytics

[40:18] - AI Needs Clean Data

[45:27] - Essential FP&A Skills for Success

[52:29] - Last Question & Episode wrap-up

Patrick Culkin is the President & CEO of the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP), stepping into the role in July 2025 after more than two decades with the organization. He previously served as Executive Vice President and began his AFP journey in Human Resources. Bryan Lapidus, FPAC, is Director of the FP&A Practice at AFP, where he leads thought leadership, education, and community-building for financial planning professionals. With a background in corporate finance and consulting, Bryan is also a certified FPAC holder. 

Expect to Learn:

• What drives AFP’s mission and how its leadership is preparing for the future of finance.
• How finance professionals can navigate uncertainty, AI adoption, and rapid change.
• Why growing a strong professional network is key to career and organizational success.
• A practical framework for scenario planning and how Gen AI can support it.
• What to expect from the FP&A Forum and why it’s become a must-attend event for finance professionals.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Everything we do at AFP has to drive the success of the corporate finance professional. That’s our North Star.” - Patrick Culkin
• “Technology is a tool; what really matters is how you use it to drive better business outcomes.” - Bryan Lapidus
• “Everyone in the company plans, but FP&A is about return on capital; that’s what sets us apart.” - Bryan Lapidus

Patrick Culkin shared a clear and practical outlook on the future of corporate finance. He highlighted the importance of staying connected, continuing to learn, and being ready to adapt as the profession evolves. Together with insights from Bryan Lapidus and Paul Barnhurst, this episode underscores the growing role of finance as a strategic partner in business.

Get Certified with the FPAC Credential

Earn the only FP&A credential that proves your expertise and commitment to the profession.

Use TheFPAGuy-FPAC for $150 off the Exam

Use TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP for $100 off the Exam Prep Platform

Learn more: https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications

AFP FP&A Forum: All insights. Zero spin.

March 23 – 25 in Indianapolis

This immersive, three-day event is built for financial professionals, by financial professionals, and it’s designed to help you sharpen your skills, stay on top of trends, and connect with peers who understand your challenges.

Learn more: https://www.financialprofessionals.org/events/meetings/afp-fp-a-forum

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Patrick:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-culkin-5981032/

Website - https://www.financialprofessionals.org/

Follow Bryan:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-lapidus-fpac/

Website - https://www.financialprofessionals.org/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:33] - Pat Culkin Introduction

[06:30] - Global growth and networks

[11:09] - Changing role of finance

[13:07] - Challenge for Corporate Finance

[16:03] - Opportunities in uncertainty

[21:05] - Why Join AFP or Pursue the FPAC

[26:54] - Scenario planning framework

[41:03] - Bryan Lapidus on the Forum

[47:27] - FP&A Forum: What to Expect

[53:43] - Wrap-up and closing thoughts

Garry Ridge is a purpose-driven leader, coach, and global keynote speaker. As the former Chairman and CEO of WD-40 Company, Garry led the brand to become one of the world’s most trusted names, achieving over 90% employee engagement and consistent shareholder growth. Known as The Culture Coach, Garry helps leaders create values-driven workplaces where learning, innovation, and connection fuel success. He is the author of Any Dumb-Ass Can Do It and co-author of Helping People Win at Work with Ken Blanchard.

Expect to Learn:

• The connection between company culture and business success
• How FP&A can guide strategy while fostering engagement
• Why servant leadership is key to unlocking innovation
• Practical advice on building a workplace of belonging
• The importance of "learning moments" in continuous improvement

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Great FP&A looks like a road map to a destination that’s directionally very concise and understandable." - Garry Ridge
• "If only a small percentage of your organization is passionately working on executing your strategy, you’ll get limited outcomes." - Garry Ridge
• "If you want to create a high-performing culture, focus on building trust, respect, and belonging." - Garry Ridge

Garry Ridge offered a powerful vision for the future of leadership and organizational culture, one where trust, respect, and belonging are the foundations of success. He emphasized that great leaders are not just managers, but coaches who inspire their teams to thrive by focusing on values-driven cultures. From building employee engagement to navigating mental health challenges, Garry’s insights provide actionable guidance for leaders looking to create work environments where people feel valued, connected, and empowered to contribute to a greater purpose.

Get Certified with the FPAC Credential

Earn the only FP&A credential that proves your expertise and commitment to the profession.

Use TheFPAGuy-FPAC for $150 off the Exam

Use TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP for $100 off the Exam Prep Platform

Learn more: https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications

AFP FP&A Forum: All insights. Zero spin.

March 23 – 25 in Indianapolis

This immersive, three-day event is built for financial professionals, by financial professionals, and it’s designed to help you sharpen your skills, stay on top of trends, and connect with peers who understand your challenges.

Learn more: https://www.financialprofessionals.org/events/meetings/afp-fp-a-forum

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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Follow Garry:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/garryridge/

Website - https://thelearningmoment.net/any-dumb-ass-can-do-it/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:51] - Introduction of Garry Ridge

[05:35] - All Models Are Wrong, Some Are Useful

[07:18] - Creating Memories with WD-40

[12:48] - The Consequences of Ignoring Culture

[24:29] - Reactions to Going Back to School as CEO

[29:44] - Making "Are You Okay?" Meaningful

[32:27] -  Embracing Vulnerability as a Superpower

[35:13] - Curiosity as a Business Partner

[42:29] - Parting Advice for Improvement

[59:47] - Final Thoughts and Wrap Up

William is the founder and principal of Frederick Fox, a recruiting firm that specializes in placing finance and accounting talent. Since its launch in 2019, Frederick Fox has grown rapidly, serving over 700 clients with a team of 55+ experienced recruiters. The firm has achieved this growth without outside funding, focusing on speed, accountability, and results. Frederick Fox has redefined the recruiting process, prioritizing lean systems and performance-based partnerships to help companies make confident hires. Outside of work, William is a guitar-playing father of three, a math nerd turned entrepreneur, and an enthusiast of spicy food and hot yoga.

Expect to Learn:

• Why accounting and finance roles are becoming more crucial to businesses today
• How to stand out as an FP&A candidate in a competitive job market
• The importance of mastering technical tools like Power BI, Tableau, and SQL
• Why humble curiosity is key to becoming a better business partner
• How recruiters assess FP&A candidates and what skills they prioritize

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Accountants are becoming like the new software engineers. They’re in high demand and increasingly critical to business operations.” - William Spengler
• “The biggest mistake candidates make is not reaching out directly to hiring managers with relevant examples. Networking is key.” - William Spengler
• “If you're not networking continuously, you're not future-proofing your career.” - William Spengler

William Spengler shared valuable insights into the FP&A job market, highlighting the demand for technical skills, the importance of effective communication, and the value of humble curiosity. His practical advice on networking, understanding business needs, and positioning yourself for success will help both job seekers and finance professionals advance in their careers.

World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle:

Sign up for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics, including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for? Sign up today: https://bit.ly/4decOf3

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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Follow William:

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/william-spengler-2193433a

Website: https://frederickfox.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FrederickFoxGroup/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frederick-fox/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:28] - William's Introduction

[07:20] - Build Models or Value Companies

[10:42] - What's Driving CPA Demand

[16:00] - How People End Up in FP&A

[18:09] - CPA is Still the Gold Standard

[27:37] - Communicating Data That Drives Action

[30:30] - Identifying Action-Oriented Candidates

[36:36] - Biggest Mistake Candidates Make

[42:38] - No.1 Technical Skill for FP&A

[49:16] - Connect With William

Darrell Cox is the Chief Financial Officer at Una Software, bringing over 25 years of executive leadership across high-growth companies. His background includes CFO roles at Vena Solutions and FreshBooks, as well as leadership positions at Virgin Mobile, Rogers Communications, and ATI Technologies. Known for scaling finance teams and overseeing more than $1 billion in exits and transactions, Darrell focuses on blending financial insight with operational data to elevate finance's role as a strategic partner.

Expect to Learn:

• Why FP&A must evolve into strategic finance to remain relevant
• How to continuously improve forecasting through agile, data-rich practices
• The critical role of CRM and daily data in revenue intelligence
• How finance and sales can work together as partners, not opponents
• Career advice for FP&A professionals aiming to become CFOs

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “If you're not networking continuously, you're not future-proofing your career.” - Darrell Cox
• “Come bearing gifts, not with a rubber stamp and a hatchet. That's how you partner with sales.” - Darrell Cox
• “It’s no good having a beautiful bathroom if there’s no water going to it. You need the plumbing.” - Darrell Cox

Darrell Cox brings sharp insights and practical wisdom to this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, shedding light on how finance can step up as a true business partner. Whether you're building forecasts, aligning with sales, or plotting a path to CFO, Darrell's experience and advice offer a roadmap to smarter, more strategic finance.

Easy Strategic FP&A:

Introducing BEZ (BE EASY), with Agentic AI capabilities to maximize FP&A’s strategic impact. Automate complex FP&A processes and have a conversation with your data. Modern FP&A can Be Easy.

Learn more at: https://bit.ly/3H0Dqpp

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Darrell:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrell-cox-547a461/?originalSubdomain=ca

Website - https://unasoftware.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[04:08] - What Great FP&A Looks Like

[06:54] - Enabling the Finance Team

[09:12] - Finance Career Insights

[12:04] - Overview of Una's Mission and Vision

[18:48] - Building a Revenue Forecast

[24:00] - Ideal Revenue Data Inputs

[27:18] - Counterintuitive Data Insights

[32:58] -  Partnering with Sales

[42:53] - Career Growth in FP&A

Glenn Snyder is a strategic finance leader with deep experience across public, private equity, private equity-owned, and family-owned companies. He currently serves as Head of FP&A at Riveron and brings expertise in financial analysis, corporate strategy, modeling, and budgeting. Glenn has worked across several industries including SaaS (healthcare and telecom), eCommerce, data centers, and FinTech. He is also a Fractional CFO, mentor, and educator, with a long-standing connection to UCLA where he supports students and emerging finance professionals

Expect to Learn:

• Why automation should be baked into FP&A from day one
• What accountability-based forecasting looks like in practice
• How to shift FP&A from a cost center to an operational partner
• Practical methods for protecting your most valuable asset: time
• Why “humble curiosity” is essential to understanding the business

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Fully burdened compensation isn’t just salary plus bonus, there’s a lot more under the hood." - Glenn Snyder
• "Budgeting is a chance to learn the business, not just fill in a template." - Glenn Snyder
• "Finance exists to help the business make better, faster decisions." - Paul Barnhurst

Glenn Snyder emphasized that budgeting is most effective when it's collaborative, strategic, and grounded in real business understanding. He reminded us that finance’s role is to support decision-making, not just manage numbers. With clear communication and thoughtful planning, budgeting can become a tool for alignment and impact.

Easy Strategic FP&A:

Introducing BEZ (BE EASY), with Agentic AI capabilities to maximize FP&A’s strategic impact. Automate complex FP&A processes and have a conversation with your data. Modern FP&A can Be Easy.

Learn more at: https://bit.ly/3H0Dqpp

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder/

Website - onemomentintimenovel.com

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[04:37] - Why Stay in FP&A?

[07:40] - Glenn Outside of Work

[13:59] - A Tough Business Transformation

[21:31] - Comp, Vacancies & Budget Math

[25:32] - Top 5 Budgeting Tips

[37:48] - Top 5 Budgeting Pitfalls

[50:22] - Planning Over Perfection

[59:54] - Closing Thoughts & Budgeting Humor

Brian McGrath is the Co-Founder and COO of FutureView Systems, a firm dedicated to delivering scalable, technology-enabled FP&A solutions for growing companies. A graduate of the University of Florida and UNC Chapel Hill, Brian has helped organizations streamline processes, eliminate manual workflows, and build finance functions that influence real-time decisions. His hands-on experience, systems thinking, and deep commitment to automation and business alignment make his insights invaluable for any finance professional ready to modernize their approach.

Expect to Learn:

• Why automation should be baked into FP&A from day one
• What accountability-based forecasting looks like in practice
• How to shift FP&A from a cost center to an operational partner
• Practical methods for protecting your most valuable asset: time
• Why “humble curiosity” is essential to understanding the business

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “The best way to elevate your career? Focus more on your customer’s success than your own.” - Brian McGrath
• “FP&A should be embedded in operations, helping deploy capital in ways that truly move the business.” - Brian McGrath
• “Accountability-based forecasting means budget owners own their numbers, finance is there to support, not control.” - Brian McGrath

Brian McGrath delivered a compelling vision for the future of FP&A, one where automation, process thinking, and operational alignment are non-negotiable. He emphasized that great FP&A professionals are not just technically skilled, but also curious, empathetic, and strategically embedded within the business. From designing scalable systems to navigating AI and storytelling, Brian’s insights offer actionable guidance for finance leaders looking to evolve from number crunchers to decision enablers.

Easy Strategic FP&A:

Introducing BEZ (BE EASY), with Agentic AI capabilities to maximize FP&A’s strategic impact. Automate complex FP&A processes and have a conversation with your data. Modern FP&A can Be Easy.

Learn more at: https://bit.ly/3H0Dqpp

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Brian:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/financial-planning-and-analysis/.

Website - https://www.futureviewsystems.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:04] - Brian’s Background

[07:42] - Scaling Finance Teams

[09:52] - Accountability Forecasting

[14:00] - FP&A as Ops Partner

[20:23] - FP&A Get Involved in Ops

[24:59] - Developing Curiosity in Finance

[29:16] - Guarding Your Time in FP&A

[43:21] - How AI is Reshaping FP&A

[48:47] - #1 Technical Skill for FP&A Pros

[56:14] - Final Advice for FP&A Success

Jesse Mishler serves as Senior Vice President of FP&A at Carr Properties, where he oversees corporate forecasting, executive reporting, and strategic financial planning. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran with over two decades of experience, Jesse brings a mission-driven mindset to FP&A leadership. He is known for building high-performing, people-first finance teams, championing cross-functional collaboration, and implementing innovative planning tools like JEDOX to drive operational efficiency. With a master’s in real estate from Georgetown University and a passion for continuous learning, Jesse’s leadership reflects both financial precision and personal authenticity.

Expect to Learn:

• How military principles like integrity and resilience translate to corporate leadership.
• What makes FP&A a strategic hub, not just a back-office function.
• Why developing people is one of the most fulfilling aspects of leadership.
• Key operational metrics in commercial real estate and how they guide decision-making.
• The power of curiosity in becoming a better business partner.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "FP&A should be the hub of the company, connecting insights, strategy, and communication across the business." - Jesse Mishler
• "The most rewarding part of my job is seeing others grow and surpass even their own expectations."- Jesse Mishler
• "Sometimes the most impactful help you can offer takes less than five minutes, it starts with listening." - Jesse Mishler

Jesse shared powerful insights into how leadership, resilience, and curiosity can shape a successful FP&A career. He highlighted the importance of problem-solving over perfection, the value of building trust through authentic actions, and the transformational impact of investing in people. From leveraging real estate finance to fostering team growth, Jesse’s advice offers practical, inspiring takeaways for finance professionals aiming to elevate their strategic influence and lead with integrity and empathy.

Corporate Finance Institute:

You know the numbers. Now it’s time to own the story.

The new FP&A Professional (FPAP) Certification from CFI is built for finance professionals who want to lead with insight-not just report the data.

Learn more at: https://corporatefinancialinstitute.pxf.io/c/6003589/3067930/23723

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Jesse:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessemishler/

Company - https://www.carrprop.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[03:58] - What Makes Great FP&A

[06:05] - Lessons from the Marines

[09:01] - FP&A as a Problem Solver

[12:36] - Why Real Estate Finance

[15:23] - Key Metrics in Real Estate

[18:41] - Choosing & Using JEDOX

[22:54] - Developing People in FP&A

[30:41] - Leadership & Trust

[36:26] - No.1 Technical FP&A Skills

[41:02] - Favorite Hobby

[47:08] - Closing Advice: Be Curious

Christopher Ortega is the CEO and founder of Fresh FP&A, a financial strategy firm that supports small and mid-sized businesses with fractional CFO services. With more than 20 years in accounting, FP&A, and finance leadership, Chris has built a career around driving growth, navigating acquisitions, and helping organizations build financial clarity. He’s worked with global companies, led finance teams through complex M&A deals, and now channels that experience into helping others succeed

Expect to Learn:

• Why FP&A needs to evolve from reporting to a real business partnership
• How Chris shifted his mindset from CFO to CEO
• The importance of focusing on the right industries instead of trying to serve everyone
• Why failing early became one of his greatest learning tools
• What to do before you land your first paid client

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "You either win or you learn. You only lose if you don’t learn." - Christopher Ortega
• "To scale, I had to stop thinking like a CFO and start thinking like a CEO." - Christopher Ortega
• "Sales and marketing taught me more about business than any finance book." - Christopher Ortega

Christopher shared valuable insights on evolving from a technical finance role to a strategic business partner, the mindset shift required to grow from CFO to CEO, and the power of narrowing your focus in business. His advice on embracing failure, building with purpose, and putting impact before income offers meaningful takeaways for anyone looking to lead with confidence in the finance world.

Corporate Finance Institute:

You know the numbers. Now it’s time to own the story.

The new FP&A Professional (FPAP) Certification from CFI is built for finance professionals who want to lead with insight, not just report the data.

Learn more at: https://corporatefinancialinstitute.pxf.io/c/6003589/3067930/23723

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Chris:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/freshcfo/

Website - https://freshfpa.com/our-team/john-kobs-ceo/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.theFP&Aguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[03:14] - What Does Great FP&A Look Like?

[07:21] - Starting the Entrepreneurial Journey

[11:21] - Reflecting on College Memories

[16:36] - Embracing Failure in Finance

[22:11] - Starting Without a Paid Client

[20:23] - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

[26:08] - Revenue Before Quitting

[37:44] - Dream Boxing Matches

[27:35] - The Hardest Part of Entrepreneurship

[34:18] - Essential Technical Skill for Professionals

[44:30] - Roles in Business: The Football Analogy

Adam Rakich has spent over a decade streamlining finance processes across industries, working with top software platforms like Adaptive Insights, Workday, and OneStream. As the author of The Business User’s Guide to Data Integration, he is known for making complex finance concepts accessible, especially to non-technical professionals. At Northexis, Adam helps organizations build better, more collaborative FP&A functions without the pain.

Expect to Learn:

• Why most budgeting processes are broken and how to shift the mindset to fix them.
• The importance of soft skills in elevating finance's strategic impact.
• How to avoid the "Jurassic Park" trap of doing more just because you can.
• The value of driver-based planning and why simplicity often beats complexity.
• The "James Bond Philosophy" of budgeting: when to seduce and when to take a firmer stance.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "The James Bond approach to budgeting: seduce when you can, shoot when you have to metaphorically, of course." - Adam Rakich
• "Pick your battles. If you ask for everything, people will tune out and give you nothing." - Adam Rakich
• "Budgeting works best when it’s not adversarial. Finance shouldn’t be the department of ‘no’." - Adam Rakich

Adam shared valuable insights into why budgeting processes often fall short and how a shift in mindset can make all the difference. He emphasized the power of simplicity, the role of soft skills in finance, and the importance of involving stakeholders in meaningful ways. His practical advice on driver-based planning, managing expectations, and building strong business relationships offers key takeaways for finance professionals looking to lead more effective and collaborative FP&A functions.

Corporate Finance Institute:

You know the numbers. Now it’s time to own the story.

The new FP&A Professional (FPAP) Certification from CFI is built for finance professionals who want to lead with insight-not just report the data.

Learn more at: https://corporatefinancialinstitute.pxf.io/c/6003589/3067930/23723

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Adam:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/northexis/

Website - https://northexis.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.theFP&Aguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:29] - Guest’s Background

[04:06] - Defining Great FP&A

[07:58] - Why People Hate Budgeting Process

[09:28] - 10 Ways to Fix Budgeting

[19:51] - Driver Tree and Revenue Impact

[23:39] - Jurassic Park Hubris and Budgeting

[30:23] - Accountant vs. FP&A Professional

[43:42] - James Bond Philosophy & Budgeting

[46:51] - No.1 Technical Skill

[52:17] - Superhero of Choice

Alex Holt is the CFO of Milo’s Hamburgers, a beloved 23-unit fast-food chain known for its iconic burgers and sweet tea, based in Alabama. With experience as the Executive Vice President of Finance at Capstone Communities and a background in real estate, Alex brings a wealth of knowledge in finance, data visualization, and process improvement. He is passionate about making data useful and has a strong focus on enhancing financial operations.

Expect to Learn:

• How the role of FP&A extends beyond reporting to driving business change.
• The unique challenges of managing finances in a growing, family-owned restaurant chain.
• The importance of process improvement and documentation when scaling operations.
• How Alex uses technology to improve efficiency and communication.
• Key metrics and strategies for managing finance in the restaurant industry, including labor and food costs.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "I use ChatGPT every day for communication, summarizing information, and even Excel formulas. It's a great productivity tool." - Alex Holt
• "If accounting is reporting what happened, great FP&A is about understanding the why behind the business activities." - Alex Holt
• "Great FP&A is about pulling insights from what's going on in the business and using that to drive change." - Alex Holt

Alex shared valuable insights on what makes a great FP&A professional, the importance of process improvement in a growing company, and how technology can enhance financial operations. His practical advice on managing costs, forecasting, and building consensus provides key takeaways for aspiring finance leaders.

Corporate Finance Institute:

You know the numbers. Now it’s time to own the story.

The new FP&A Professional (FPAP) Certification from CFI is built for finance professionals who want to lead with insight-not just report the data.

Learn more at: https://corporatefinancialinstitute.pxf.io/c/6003589/3067930/23723

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Alex:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/holtale/

Twitter - https://x.com/holtale

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.theFP&Aguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[04:02] - What Does Great FP&A Look Like?

[06:28] - Alex’s Transition to CFO at Milo’s Hamburgers

[08:13] - The First 90 Days as CFO

[14:36] - Using AI in Daily Operations

[16:14] - Standardizing Processes for Growth

[23:44] - Expense Ratios in Fast Food

[25:02] - Considering Franchising at Milo’s

[27:06] - Budgeting Horizons in Real Estate

[30:45] - Advice for Aspiring CFOs

[36:57] - Soft Human Skill

[42:56] - Theme Song for Entering a Room

Raheli Sasson is the Director of FP&A at JFrog, where she partners with executive leadership to deliver financial and operational results. With deep expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and process automation, Raheli is passionate about leveraging technology and AI to drive efficiency in finance. She has managed budgets exceeding $1 billion and spearheaded global initiatives to integrate AI in finance.

Expect to Learn:

• How finance can act as a strategic partner to drive company growth, especially in the early stages.
• The importance of balancing growth with sustainability in high-growth SaaS companies.
• Key metrics and strategies for scaling operations and go-to-market efforts in early-stage startups.
• Insights into how AI is changing the landscape of finance and operations.
• Tips on building trust and accountability within teams to ensure collaborative success.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "The ability to present financial data clearly and compellingly is one of the most powerful tools you can have in your FP&A toolbox." - Raheli Sasson
• "AI is transforming finance, and for me, it's not just about automation. It's about leveraging it to forecast better and make smarter, data-driven decisions." - Raheli Sasson
• "A great FP&A professional is not just reactive but proactive, anticipating needs before they arise and simplifying complex financial data for everyone." - Raheli Sasson

Raheli shared key insights on what makes a great FP&A professional, the importance of collaboration in high-growth environments, and how AI is transforming finance. Her practical advice on managing costs, forecasting, and data storytelling provides valuable takeaways for aspiring finance leaders.

Corporate Finance Institute:

You know the numbers. Now it’s time to own the story.

The new FP&A Professional (FPAP) Certification from CFI is built for finance professionals who want to lead with insight-not just report the data.

Learn more at: https://corporatefinancialinstitute.pxf.io/c/6003589/3067930/23723

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Raheli:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahelisasson/?originalSubdomain=il

Company - https://www.linkedin.com/company/jfrog-ltd/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.theFP&Aguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[03:49] - What’s Great FP&A?

[07:15] - Transitioning from Auditing to FP&A

[10:35] - Managing Cloud Hosting Costs in Hypergrowth

[15:48] - Passion for AI and Becoming an Advocate

[22:57] - Impact of AI Workshops on Team Productivity

[27:44] - Introduction to Deep Research

[33:36] - Best Use Cases for AI in FP&A

[37:15] - Implementing AI Training in Finance

[43:04] - Favorite Gen AI Tool

[44:55] - Soft FP&A Skill

Rohit is a seasoned finance leader with expertise in high-growth SaaS companies. Having raised over $500 million and driven revenue growth from $20 million to over $500 million, Rohit has a deep passion for improving finance team effectiveness and is especially active in the AI space. He currently serves as the head of operations and finance at Sprig, an all-in-one product experience platform.

Expect to Learn:

• How finance can act as a strategic partner to drive company growth, especially in the early stages.
• The importance of balancing growth with sustainability in high-growth SaaS companies.
• Key metrics and strategies for scaling operations and go-to-market efforts in early-stage startups.
• Insights into how AI is changing the landscape of finance and operations.
• Tips on building trust and accountability within teams to ensure collaborative success.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "You need to build trust with your teams before you can build accountability. It’s not about numbers, it’s about relationships." - Rohit Divate
• "AI is going to be a game changer. Right now, we’re still figuring out how to use it in finance, but I’m excited for the day it makes me 10x more productive." - Rohit Divate
• "In early-stage companies, you don’t really know what your metrics are yet, but you can always measure improvement." - Rohit Divate

Rohit shares valuable insights, real stories, and practical advice for anyone in finance, particularly those working in high-growth startups. If you’re looking to understand the dynamics of scaling a business, driving sustainable growth, and partnering effectively with teams, this episode is for you. Rohit talks about what’s worked for him, the challenges he’s faced, and the key lessons he’s learned throughout his career, offering actionable takeaways for aspiring finance leaders.

Corporate Finance Institute:

You know the numbers. Now it’s time to own the story.

The new FP&A Professional (FPAP) Certification from CFI is built for finance professionals who want to lead with insight-not just report the data. Enroll by July 1st and get 40% of this new Certification.

Learn more at: https://corporatefinancialinstitute.pxf.io/c/6003589/3067930/23723

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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Follow Rohit:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/divate/

Twitter - https://x.com/rohitdv8 

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.theFP&Aguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[03:41] - What’s Great FP&A?

[06:13] - Growth Challenges

[14:26] - Product-Market Fit at Pre-seed

[17:37] - Go-to-Market Strategy for Growth

[27:54] - Building Trust Through Action

[32:02] - Why Rohit Loves Equals

[35:17] - CFO’s Guide to AI Scaling

[46:49] - Biggest Opportunity for FP&A

[50:18] - Fun Questions

John Sanchez brings over 20 years of experience in FP&A and corporate finance. He has worked with world-class organizations such as Royal Caribbean Cruises and AutoNation, and now trains finance professionals through his consulting firm, FP&A Group. With a background in accounting and M&A, John brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to FP&A, including the importance of business acumen and communication skills for financial professionals.

Expect to Learn:

• How great FP&A professionals go beyond Excel to understand the business.
• The importance of business acumen in making impactful financial decisions.
• Why communication, especially listening, is crucial in FP&A.
• Insights on John’s career journey from accounting to FP&A.
• Practical tips for improving communication and networking in finance.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Great FP&A is about getting out of your chair, away from Excel, and interacting with your business partners to understand how the business really works." - John Sanchez
• "Communication is everything in FP&A. If you’re not a good listener, you’re going to miss a lot." - John Sanchez
• "If you’re just good at Excel, you’ll always be an Excel monkey. You need to understand the business to truly add value." - John Sanchez

John shares valuable insights, real stories, and practical advice for anyone in FP&A. If you want to level up in finance or just learn from someone who’s been there, this episode is for you. He shares what’s worked, what hasn’t, and the key lessons he’s learned along the way.

Corporate Finance Institute:

Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-FP&A guy/?utm_source=FP&A guy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_ads

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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Follow John:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fpajohn/

Website: https://thefpagroup.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FPAFastTrack 

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.theFP&Aguy.com

LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

 [04:00] - What is Great FP&A?

[15:13] - From Accounting to M&A

[22:00] - The Power of Communication

[28:14] - Life Keeps Going

[37:57] - Communication in FP&A

[45:57] - Top Technical Skill

[52:38] - Get to know You

[54:32] - Superpower Question

[56:09] - Closing Remarks

Clarke Carter is a CPA and CMA working as a senior accountant in the healthcare industry. He supports budgeting and planning and has deep experience with Adaptive Insights and Excel modeling. Landon Cortenbach is a veteran CFO and finance executive who has scaled startups and worked with Fortune 50 companies. With a background in accounting, operations, and enterprise tech, Landon’s passion is in financial transformation and continuous learning. He’s a CPA, Six Sigma Green Belt, and a big advocate for real-world financial education.

Expect to Learn:

• Why mastering Excel is still foundational in FP&A
• The difference between theory and real-world finance training
• How Power Query can save you hours every week
• What separates effective FP&A teams from the rest
• How to choose between certifications like CFA, FMVA, or FPAC

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Slow and steady wins. Make time daily to learn, and you’ll be amazed where you end up." - Clarke Carter
• "Power BI and Excel together are unstoppable once you know how to use them." - Clarke Carter
• "The moment I understood how three-statement models fit together, everything clicked." - Landon Cortenbach

Clarke and Landon bring practical advice, personal stories, and a lot of perspective. If you’re looking to level up in FP&A or just want to hear from two people who’ve learned through doing, this one’s for you. They share what worked, what didn’t, and what they’d tell anyone trying to move forward in finance.

Corporate Finance Institute:

Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-FP&A guy/?utm_source=FP&A guy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_ads

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Landon:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/landonjcortenbach/

Follow Clarke:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarke-carter-cpa-cma-47392180/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.theFP&Aguy.com

LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:18] - Guest Introductions

[06:22] - What Is Great FP&A?

[08:57] - Choosing the CFI Program

[14:20] - Program Impact

[17:19] - Top Skills Learned

[23:42] - Study Advice

[28:07] - Modeling & Excel

[32:16] - Advice about the CFO

[39:13] - Soft Skills for FP&A

[47:17] - Book Recommendation

Paul Lynch has spent his career leading B2B software companies and helping them scale with better decision-making tools. He’s been CEO at Assembla and Import.io, and now heads up Centage, a modern FP&A platform. Originally from Dublin and now living in Texas, Paul brings a mix of humor, experience, and blunt truths about finance, growth, and leadership. He’s also a former whiskey salesman in South Africa, a passionate cook, and a lifelong Liverpool fan.

Expect to Learn:

• Why reporting is not just planning should be the core of FP&A.
• How poor unit economics can quietly destroy your business.
• Why hiring data people early matters more than sales or recruiters.
• The lasting dominance of Excel and what that says about innovation.
• How Paul’s early sales career in South Africa shaped his leadership style.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “We need to stop worshipping Excel and start building tools for the next 40 years.” - Paul Lynch
• Many companies chase growth without even knowing if they’re making or losing money.” - Paul Lynch
• “The moment you think you know more than your customer, your business starts to fail.” - Paul Lynch

Paul brings energy, candor, and real-world perspective to a topic that’s often bogged down in spreadsheets and jargon. This episode is a must-listen for finance professionals who want to rethink how they use data, sharpen their business instincts, or learn from someone who’s built and led through both booms and busts. If you’ve ever questioned how to grow responsibly, build a smarter team, or move beyond Excel, Paul’s insights will challenge your thinking and leave you with practical takeaways to act on.

Corporate Finance Institute:

Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-FP&A guy/?utm_source=FP&A guy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_ads

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Paul Lynch:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulglynch/

Website - https://www.centage.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.theFP&A ndaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/theFP&A ndaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[03:37] - Real-Life FP&A Example

[06:28] - Starting in Sales

[09:39] - Customer-Led Roadmaps

[11:53] - FP&A in Sales

[14:18] - Key SaaS Metrics

[16:09] - Ignoring Unit Economics

[18:26] - VC and Growth

[24:13] - Innovation in FP&A

[32:51] - Rise of Data

[35:42] - Key FP&A Skills

[38:27] - Get To Know You

Ramya Krishnaganth is an experienced advisor with a background in cost accounting, financial planning, and enterprise transformations. She holds an executive MBA from Wharton and has helped companies across industries build smarter, more responsive finance functions. Her passion is making data more meaningful and empowering teams to work better together not just through systems, but through clarity, communication, and care.

Expect to Learn:

• Why great FP&A is about being the “nervous system” of a company, not just reporting numbers.
• How a CFO used one simple metric to drive company-wide cost discipline.
• Why fixing data issues means looking beyond tech and starting with people and processes.
• How to build credibility in finance by solving one problem at a time.
• What it means to approach data with empathy and why it changes how you solve problems.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “You don’t always need a new system. Sometimes clarity and better definitions solve the problem.” - Ramya Krishnaganth
• “Credibility comes when you give people answers they can use, when they need them.” - Ramya Krishnaganth
• “Transformations aren’t about technology alone. They’re about making real decisions easier.” - Ramya Krishnaganth

Ramya brings warmth and wisdom to a topic that often feels technical and dry. This episode is a great listen for finance professionals looking to strengthen their influence, better understand how to approach messy data, or simply hear how someone else has helped real companies tackle hard problems. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by data or unsure where to start, Ramya’s insights will give you both a fresh perspective and practical next steps.

Corporate Finance Institute:

Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_ads

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Ramya:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramyadurgak/

Website - https://uvidconsulting.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:51] - Welcome to The Episode

[05:16] - A CFO’s Smart Cost-Control Strategy

[08:55] - Why Financial Transformation Matters

[13:05] - Why Companies Struggle With Data

[14:32] - Root Causes: People, Process, or Tech

[19:25] - Smart Approaches to Fixing Data

[24:29] - Empathy and Data: What It Really Means

[27:41] - Finding and Solving the Right Problems

[32:48] - Practical Advice for Analysts

[38:42] - Must-Have Skills for FP&A

[43:04] - Ramya’s Personal Interests

[49:01] - Final Thoughts and How to Connect

Nate Saperia is a finance veteran with a background spanning economic consulting, corporate finance at companies like GE and Hess, and advising private equity-backed firms on financial planning and analysis. Recently, Nate launched his own consulting firm, focusing on helping businesses navigate strategic finance challenges and achieve smarter growth. Known for his clear and pragmatic approach, Nate is passionate about helping FP&A professionals elevate their role beyond reporting into true business partnering.

Expect to Learn:

• Why truly great FP&A means understanding the business and enabling better decision-making.
• How to break down high-level financial goals into clear, measurable, and actionable KPIs.
• The nuanced difference between traditional FP&A and strategic finance roles.
• What it’s like working in private equity-backed companies, including the heavy reporting demands and rapid pace.
• The top technical and interpersonal skills FP&A professionals should prioritize now.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “If we had truly clean data, FP&A would be more exciting because we’d spend more time on analysis, less on manual work.” - Nate Saperia
• “Business partnering is about empathy and understanding others’ perspectives, not assuming you have all the answers.” - Nate Saperia
• “Power Query is the single most important technical skill for FP&A professionals today it solves most data cleansing headaches.” - Nate Saperia

Nate delivers a thoughtful and practical perspective on the evolving role of FP&A, especially within private equity-backed companies. He highlights the importance of building actionable KPIs, mastering essential technical skills like Power Query, and developing genuine business partnerships grounded in empathy and understanding. This episode is a must-listen for finance professionals aiming to elevate their strategic impact and navigate the fast-paced demands of PE environments.

Corporate Finance Institute:

Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_ads

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Nate:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathansaperia/

Website - accordion.com/team/nate-saperia

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:11] - Introduction to the Episode

[03:07] - What Makes Great FP&A?

[05:08] - Nate’s Career Journey

[07:25] - The Role of EBITDA in Private Equity

[11:12] - Defining and Using KPIs Effectively

[17:42] - Building a Metrics Matrix

[20:34] - Strategic Finance vs FP&A

[28:41] - Life in a Private Equity-Backed Company

[35:17] - Reporting Expectations in PE

[41:47] - Power Query and Business Partnering

[46:05] - Nate Personal Insights

[48:45] - Final Advice for FP&A Professionals

Wassia Kamon is a finance powerhouse with over 15 years of experience across various industries, including manufacturing, technology, pharmaceuticals, and nonprofits. As CFO at ACE, a nonprofit lending institution, she plays a key role in providing capital to entrepreneurs. Wassia has also been recognized as a 40 Under 40 honoree by CPA Practice Advisor and is the host of the podcast The Diary of a CFO. She's passionate about helping high-potential finance leaders step into executive roles and shares her expertise through coaching, speaking engagements, and teaching at the Wharton Online Certificate Program.

Expect to Learn:

• How Wassia transitioned from FP&A to CFO and the unexpected challenges she faced along the way.
• The power of trust and relationships in becoming a key business partner, not just a number cruncher.
• Why being invited into decision-making conversations early is a game changer for finance teams.
• What it was really like dealing with the board of directors for the first time as a CFO.
• How to expand your influence and take a broader view of business to become a true strategic partner.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “In FP&A, it's important to build those relationships early and not just be the person catching up after decisions are made.” - Wassia Kamon
• “You can’t be great at FP&A unless you are in the room where decisions are made. It’s about having the trust to influence, not just report.” - Wassia Kamon
• “Good FP&A is when you're already top of mind to decision makers, and they come to you for input, not the other way around.” - Wassia Kamon

Wassia delivers a powerful perspective on the role of financial leaders and the critical need for stronger relationships, trust-building, and strategic influence in today’s business environment. This episode is essential listening for finance professionals, aspiring CFOs, and business leaders looking to enhance their impact, improve decision-making, and build stronger, more collaborative teams.

Corporate Finance Institute:

Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_ads

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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Follow Wassia:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/

Website - https://www.wassiakamon.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

2025 FP&A Tools Showcase:

Discover the best in FP&A without the sales pressure. The 2025 FP&A Tools Showcase is a free event where top platforms demo their solutions, share their approach to planning, and answer your questions with no pitches, just insights. Join us on May 22nd and see how today’s leading tools stack up.

Register now at https://bit.ly/42YPPkF

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:42] - Welcome and Introduction

[03:29] - Wassia’s Journey from FP&A to CFO

[05:02] - What Makes Great FP&A?

[07:13] - Dealing with the Board for the First Time

[09:45] - Building Trust and Strategic Influence in Finance

[13:20] - Leading in Multiple Industries

[17:05] - Expanding Your Network and Influence

[21:14] - Managing Uncertainty as a CFO

[25:32] - Leadership Lessons from Wassia’s Career

[29:00] - Building Effective Relationships in Business

[33:47] - Key Takeaways

Parker Gilbert is the CEO and Co-founder of Numeric, a financial close platform designed to make accounting teams faster, more accurate, and more collaborative. With a background in investment banking and hands-on experience as Head of Finance at Hearth, Parker understands both the strategic and operational challenges finance teams face. Frustrated by the limitations of traditional accounting tools, Parker set out to build Numeric, software purpose-built to simplify and streamline the month-end close.

Expect to Learn:

• Why Parker and his team started Numeric to solve overlooked pain points in accounting.
• How traditional tools like Excel and legacy ERP systems are failing modern accounting teams.
• What it means to build software specifically for the financial close process.
• Why visibility and collaboration are essential in reducing close errors.
• How Numeric empowers teams to understand what’s been done, what’s left, and where issues arise.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “The close is this sort of well-understood pain point in accounting, but there's no purpose-built software that helps solve it.” - Parker Gilbert
• “We believe the best way to build software is to partner really closely with customers.” - Parker Gilbert
• “Accounting is really about trust, it’s about giving your team the confidence that everything is covered.” - Parker Gilbert

Parker delivers a powerful perspective on the role of accounting teams and the urgent need for smarter, more intuitive tools. This episode is essential listening for finance professionals, controllers, and startup leaders looking to improve their close process, enhance accuracy, and make better business decisions. If you’re tired of copy-pasting across spreadsheets and guessing what’s done, this conversation will inspire you to rethink your accounting stack.

Corporate Finance Institute:

Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_ads

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Follow Parker:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/parker-gilbert-99483298/

Website - https://www.numeric.io/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy