Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast FP&A Unlocked
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Three Foundations of Strategic FP&A with Chithra Rajagopalan | 24 sept. 2026 | 01:00:44 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Chithra Rajagopalan, Head of Finance at Obsidian Security, to discuss what great FP&A looks like in high-growth companies, why strong data foundations matter, and how finance teams can become more strategic business partners. Chithra shares lessons from scaling finance teams, supporting hypergrowth companies, and using data to influence better decisions. Chithra Rajagopalan is a finance leader with experience across high-growth SaaS and AI security companies. She currently serves as Head of Finance at Obsidian Security, where she oversees financial strategy and operations. Her previous roles include finance leadership positions at Glue, ClickUp, and People.ai, following earlier experience at Deloitte and Ernst & Young. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Chithra explains that strong FP&A starts with reliable data, business understanding, communication, and the ability to prioritize what actually moves the business forward. For finance professionals, the growing use of AI also means shifting from task execution toward an orchestration mindset, where teams understand systems, workflows, automation, and business strategy rather than simply producing reports. Follow Chithra:
Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. 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 [05:07] - What Great FP&A Looks Like [11:16] - Building Finance During Hypergrowth [15:19] - Creating a Culture of Data [17:52] - Three Foundations of Strong FP&A Teams [29:31] - Inside Obsidian Security [34:38] - AI, Finance & Cybersecurity [39:42] - Moving Beyond AI Hype [44:43] - Why Finance Needs AI Guardrails [47:24] - The Skills FP&A Professionals Need [50:01] - The Future of Finance Teams [57:08] - Why Startup Chaos Builds Better Leaders [59:15] - Closing Thoughts | |||
| Are You Solving Business Problems or Just Reporting Numbers? with Eric Alexander | 17 sept. 2026 | 00:50:03 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Eric Alexander about building effective FP&A functions, developing business acumen, and preparing finance professionals for leadership. Eric explains why finance teams need to look beyond the numbers, understand the business, communicate effectively, and develop the leadership skills needed to create greater impact. Eric Alexander is the President of Six Arrows Consulting and an advisor, speaker, and author with nearly 40 years of financial management experience, including 20 years in CFO roles. He served as CFO of Happy State Bank and now provides leadership development, strategic planning, finance function, and advisory services to community banks and mid-market companies. He is also the author of Stewardship Leadership for Stinking Accountants: Serving as the CFO. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Eric emphasizes that strong finance professionals need more than technical expertise. They must understand the business behind the numbers, communicate their insights, collaborate across functions, and help leaders make better decisions. As professionals move toward CFO roles, leadership, strategy, communication, and stewardship become increasingly important Follow Eric:
Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. 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 [03:55] - What Great FP&A Looks Like [04:47] - Building a Strong FP&A Function [07:43] - Understanding the Business Behind the Numbers [09:23] - Building Business Acumen [13:39] - Moving From Accounting to FP&A [16:19] - The Path to CFO [20:31] - Leadership & Constructive Disagreement [26:06] - Pre-Mortems & Better Decisions [30:03] - Point Estimates vs. Ranges [38:10] - Stewardship Leadership & The CFO Role [43:57] - Technical & Human Skills for FP&A [46:19] - Personal Questions & Closing Thoughts | |||
| Only 6% of Finance Teams Actually Influence Decisions | Soufyan Hamid | 10 sept. 2026 | 00:58:02 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Soufyan Hamid about financial storytelling, finance business partnering, and how finance professionals can move from reporting numbers to influencing business decisions. Soufyan explains why numbers need context, how finance teams can systematize storytelling, and why communication, business acumen, and empathy are essential skills for creating strategic impact. Soufyan Hamid is a finance professional, corporate trainer, EMBA lecturer, and keynote speaker who specializes in systematizing storytelling for finance teams. He helps finance professionals strengthen their communication and financial storytelling skills. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Soufyan explains that effective financial storytelling is about more than presenting numbers. Finance professionals need to understand their audience, prioritize what matters, provide context, and help the business make better decisions. Follow Soufyan:
Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. 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 [03:13] - What Great FP&A Looks Like [05:46] - Why Finance Needs Storytelling [12:28] - Making Financial Storytelling Useful [16:02] - Why Numbers Need Context [19:57] - Systematizing Storytelling & the FP&A Maturity Model [29:38] - Storytelling, Business Partnering & Influence [34:21] - Common Finance Presentation Mistakes [40:13] - Complexity Is a Failure of Empathy [46:05] - Technical & Human Skills for FP&A [49:53] - The Mindset Shift: Learning to Prioritize [56:15] - Building Better Finance Teams & Closing Thoughts | |||
| Why Your Brilliant Financial Analysis Gets Ignored: The Precision Trap with Asif Masani | 03 sept. 2026 | 00:47:10 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Asif Masani about his new book, The Precision Trap, and why finance teams can focus too much on accuracy and miss the decision window. Asif explains how FP&A professionals can deliver timely analysis, influence business decisions, and become stronger business partners. Asif Masani is a Director at FP&A Professionals Institute and FP&A Jobs, an author, and Udemy instructor focused on helping finance professionals develop their FP&A skills. He is the author of All About FP&A, From Accounting to FP&A, and Data Storytelling Playbook. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
The key to avoiding the precision trap is understanding what decision the analysis needs to support, who needs it, and when they need it. Asif explains why finance professionals should focus on delivering useful analysis at the right time and earning a place in important business decisions. Follow Asif:
Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. 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 [04:58] - What Great FP&A Looks Like [10:30] - Building the FP&A Professionals Institute [18:33] - Understanding the Precision Trap [20:35] - Why Timely Analysis Matters [29:44] - Spotting the Precision Trap in Organizations [35:16] - Essential FP&A Skills [38:04] - The DERP Framework [39:54] - Getting to Know Asif [44:56] - Final Advice for Finance Professionals | |||
| The Budget Isn't the Goal. Building a Better Business Is with Zach & Chris | 27 août 2026 | 01:02:45 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Zach Rial and Chris Ortega, alongside co-host Glenn Snyder, to discuss budgeting and forecasting best practices. The conversation explores how finance teams should think about the purpose of budgeting, balancing control with agility, involving the business in the planning process, and using forecasting as a tool for better decision-making. Zach Rial is a finance leader at AskElephant, a startup focused on revenue and conversation intelligence. He brings experience as an operator who uses finance, FP&A, and business insights to help companies grow and improve decision-making. Chris Ortega is the CEO of Fresh FP&A, a global fractional CFO and advisory firm supporting small and medium-sized businesses. Chris has over 20 years of experience in accounting, finance, and leadership roles, helping organizations build, scale, and prepare for growth. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Effective budgeting is not about predicting the future perfectly, it is about creating alignment, understanding business drivers, and enabling better decisions. The strongest FP&A teams use budgets and forecasts as tools to guide the business, build trust, and help leaders navigate uncertainty. Follow Zach:
Follow Chris:
Follow Glenn:
Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. 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] - Introduction [06:20] - The Purpose of Budgeting [12:26] - Making Budgeting a Business Process [17:24] - Building a Better Planning Approach [26:51] - Practical Budgeting and Forecasting Tips [37:44] - Building Trust With Business Partners [44:35] - Managing AI Costs and Governance [54:18] - Balancing Budget Control and Agility [58:35] - Final Advice | |||
| Should Finance Pros Be Using Vibe Coding to Build Their Own Tools? with Brock & Natalia | 20 août 2026 | 00:58:59 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Brock Beyer and Natalia Kudinova to discuss how vibe coding is changing the way finance professionals automate work and build practical tools. They explore real-world use cases, AI token costs, security and maintenance concerns, and why finance teams should start with simple, repetitive processes rather than business-critical systems. Brock Beyer is the CPA Controller at Jump, where he has used vibe coding to build internal productivity tools. Natalia Kudinova is a Senior Director at ABBYY with experience across finance leadership, treasury, tax, reporting, transformation, and process improvement. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Vibe coding is giving finance professionals new ways to automate repetitive work and build practical tools without traditional coding expertise. The key is to start small, focus on well-defined processes, and keep humans involved in reviewing results. As AI adoption grows, security, cost, and maintainability will remain critical considerations. Follow Natalia: Follow Brock:
Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. 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 [03:12] - What Great FP&A Looks Like [04:59] - What Is Vibe Coding? [09:36] - Getting Started With Vibe Coding [16:02] - Where Vibe Coding Makes Sense [20:21] - AI Token Costs and ROI [34:12] - Best Finance Processes to Automate [41:53] - What You Shouldn't Vibe Code [46:17] - Maintenance and Security [54:17] - Final Advice | |||
| An Evaluation of the FPI AI Program and How 3 Finance Pros Are Using AI Today | 13 août 2026 | 00:58:59 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Nitesh Mukhi, Rohit Menon, and Sweta Jhalani to discuss how AI is transforming the FP&A profession and changing the way finance teams work. The guests share their experiences with the AI FP&A Programme, exploring practical AI applications, automation, financial analysis, and the skills finance professionals need to stay ahead. They also discuss why domain expertise, human judgment, and business understanding remain essential in an AI-driven finance world. Nitesh Mukhi is the Finance Director at Presight AI, an AI analytics and big data analytics company in Abu Dhabi, with over two decades of experience across auditing, financial analysis, treasury, and FP&A roles at companies including Schlumberger, FedEx, and KPMG. Rohit Menon is a Regional Finance professional at Bioltec with more than 19 years of experience across multinational companies, focusing on finance transformation and developing FP&A capabilities. Sweta Jhalani is a Chartered Accountant and FP&A Manager based in India who transitioned from audit into FP&A, building experience in financial planning, analysis, and business partnering Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
AI is changing the way finance professionals approach their work, but the fundamentals of finance remain important. The ability to understand business needs, interpret data, communicate insights, and apply human judgment will continue to separate great FP&A professionals from the rest. Follow Nitesh: Follow Rohit: Follow Sweta: Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) uses AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. 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] - Introduction [01:21] - Guest Introductions [04:09] - What Great FP&A Looks Like [07:17] - Why They Joined the AI FP&A Programme [12:06] - Inside the AI FP&A Programme [14:35] - Real-World AI Use Cases [17:15] - Key Lessons From the Programme [22:11] - The Reality of AI in Finance [30:14] - AI Projects and Applications [34:03] - Advice for Finance Professionals [36:50] - The Future of AI in FP&A [40:21] - Essential FP&A Skills [43:34] - Skills Needed for AI Success [46:36] - Quick-Fire Questions [52:20] - Final Thoughts and Advice | |||
| AI Finance Club: What Three Members Learned from the Experience with Eve, Jurgen & Bukie | 06 août 2026 | 01:11:21 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by AI Finance Club members Eve Reiter, Jurgen Lang, and Bukie Faforiji for a discussion on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of FP&A. The panel shares how AI has changed the way they approach financial modeling, forecasting, automation, business partnering, and software development. From replacing repetitive Excel work with AI-powered workflows to building production-ready finance applications, they explore the practical skills finance professionals need to stay relevant in an AI-first world. Eve Reiter is a global procurement leader and AI advocate with experience at Amazon, American Express, and State Street. Jurgen Lang is a Hamburg-based fractional CFO specializing in SaaS, sports, hospitality, and technology, with more than 15 years of finance experience. Bukie Faforiji is an FP&A professional and creator of CFO Intel, an AI-powered platform that delivers transparent and auditable financial insights. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
AI is reshaping FP&A by reducing manual work, accelerating analysis, and helping finance professionals build more powerful workflows and tools. However, domain expertise, critical thinking, governance, and human judgement remain essential for producing reliable, defensible results. Finance professionals who actively develop these skills will be better prepared for an AI-driven future. Follow Eve Reiter:
Follow Jurgen Lang:
Follow Bukie Faforiji: Learn More About the AI Finance Club:
Join the AI Finance Club The top global finance community with over 3,500 members. Advance your AI and FP&A skills through exclusive training, expert-led sessions, and a global network of finance professionals. Visit the AI Finance Club – Nicolas Boucher | Advance Your Finance Skills Today. The FP&A Guy and use code YNVTUWKG to get $100 OFF your membership. 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 [06:43] - What Great FP&A Looks Like [11:01] - Inside the AI Finance Club Community [13:41] - Why the Guests Joined the AI Finance Club [19:08] - Moving from Excel to AI-Powered Workflows [23:24] - The Most Impactful AI Projects They Have Built [32:19] - How to Get More Value from AI Communities [42:27] - The Opportunities and Risks of AI in Finance [52:18] - The Essential Skills Every FP&A Professional Needs [01:01:33] - Quick-Fire Questions and Final Advice | |||
| Networking in Finance: The Career Advice Everyone Learns Too Late with Josette Ferrer | 30 juil. 2026 | 01:04:11 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Snyder sit down with Josette Ferrer to discuss one of the most overlooked skills in finance: networking. While many finance professionals focus on technical expertise, Josette explains why building genuine relationships is essential for career growth, leadership development, mentorship, and long-term success. Josette Ferrer is the Founder and Managing Director of Clairent Advisors, a valuation and business advisory firm specializing in business and intellectual property valuations. She also serves as President of the San Francisco Bay Area chapter of Financial Executives International (FEI) and is actively involved with organizations including How Women Lead, ProVisors, the American Society of Appraisers, and several executive leadership communities. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Networking is a crucial skill for FP&A professionals, enabling stronger relationships, mentorship, and career growth. Starting early and engaging genuinely helps build trust and opportunities over time. Remember, networking is about giving and adding value, not just seeking benefits for yourself. Follow Josette Ferrer: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josetteferrer/ Follow Glenn Snyder: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennsnyder/ 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 [04:22] – What Great FP&A Looks Like [12:36] – Choosing the Right Networking Group [21:23] – Why You Should Start Networking Early [27:39] – Building and Maintaining Your Professional Network [33:18] – Networking Strategies for Introverts [41:21] – The Power of Mentorship [52:05] – Final Networking Advice for Finance Professionals | |||
| Automating Financial Workflows and the Role of Human Judgment with Albert Lee | 23 juil. 2026 | 00:41:52 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Albert Lee, FP&A leader, AI finance coach, and corporate trainer, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the finance profession. Albert shares practical insights from implementing AI in corporate finance, coaching CFOs, and training finance teams on responsible AI adoption. Albert Lee is an FP&A leader, AI finance coach, and corporate trainer with over 13 years of experience helping finance teams embrace AI and automation. He has led FP&A functions across multinational organizations, including Merlin Entertainments and The Cookware Company, driving forecasting, profitability modeling, and process improvements across APAC. Today, Albert coaches CFOs and finance leaders through the AI Finance Club while delivering AI training for global organizations and professional finance communities. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Albert Lee shares practical insights on using AI to enhance FP&A without sacrificing governance, accuracy, or human judgment. He reminds finance professionals that while AI can dramatically improve productivity, true business value comes from combining the right technology with strong data practices, critical thinking, and trusted business partnerships. Follow Albert: Website - https://axiomfpa.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/albert-lee-fcpa-869478118/ 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 [02:14] – Meet Albert Lee [03:34] – Why Copilot? [05:27] – AI Automation Journey [09:47] – AI Training & Coaching [19:51] – AI Challenges [23:50] – AI Workflows [28:18] – AI Governance [31:23] – AI's Strengths & Limits [39:40] – Career Advice & Wrap-up | |||
| The Dennis Rodman Paradox And How CFOs Can Protect Irreplaceable Specialists With Jack McCullough | 16 juil. 2026 | 00:46:50 | |
In this Episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst features returning guest Jack McCullough, founder of the CFO Leadership Council, for a conversation about The Rodman Paradox and what it means for FP&A teams. The discussion explores how specialists can create outsized value, how leaders should recognise them, and how to manage them without turning them into the wrong kind of generalist. Jack McCullough is the founder and president of the CFO Leadership Council, a professional community he built to empower senior financial executives through peer learning and collaboration. Over the course of his career, Jack has served as chief financial officer for twenty-six companies, leading not only finance but also business development, HR, and IT functions. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Jack brings the perspective of a seasoned CFO, author, and adviser who has spent years thinking about financial leadership, specialist talent, and the skills that matter most in modern finance. Follow Jack: Website - https://cfoleadershipcouncil.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackmcculloughcfo/ 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 [01:42] – Jack shares the coming book The Rodman Paradox [05:56] – The three Cs for strong FP&A teams [07:27] – Why the book is about specialists, not basketball [13:15] – How to spot a Rodman through influence and crisis [20:19] – Managing specialists through motivation and bureaucracy [30:05] – AI may increase the value of specialists [33:42] – Career advice for future CFOs and FP&A leaders [40:57] – Reflecting on the ultimate interview opportunities [45:57] – Wrap-up | |||
| The Pricing Psychology for Leaders to Stop Underpricing and Understand Value with Etinosa | 09 juil. 2026 | 00:59:18 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Etinosa Agbonlahor, behavioral economist and Founder & CEO of Decision Alpha, to discuss why pricing is one of the biggest drivers of business success. They explore how customer psychology influences pricing, why many companies underprice their products, and how FP&A can play a more strategic role in pricing decisions. Etinosa Agbonlahor is a behavioral economist and pricing strategist who helps businesses improve pricing through behavioral science and customer insights. As Founder & CEO of Decision Alpha, she has advised organizations across the US, Australia, Africa, and the UK on pricing, customer behavior, and growth. She is also the author of How to Talk to Your Parents About Money. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Etinosa shares practical strategies for improving pricing through customer research, behavioral economics, and data-driven decision-making. This episode is ideal for FP&A professionals, finance leaders, and business owners looking to build stronger pricing strategies. Follow Etinosa: Website - https://playbook.decisionalpha.co/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/etinosasere/ 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 [05:18] – What Great FP&A Looks Like [06:12] – Why Pricing Drives Business Success [10:03] – Why Businesses Underprice [17:23] – Customer Segmentation [24:02] – FP&A and Pricing [29:28] – Behavioral Pricing Framework [34:12] – AI & Outcome-Based Pricing [46:05] – Data Storytelling [57:02] – Final Advice | |||
| I Would Never Let AI Touch a Number and what to do about that with Alok Ajmera | 02 juil. 2026 | 00:52:49 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Alok Ajmera, CEO of Prophix, to explore how AI is reshaping FP&A, financial planning, and enterprise decision-making. Alok explains how modern finance teams are evolving from spreadsheet-heavy workflows to AI-enabled systems, while still relying on structured data, deterministic processes, and human oversight to maintain accuracy and trust in financial outputs. Alok Ajmera is the CEO of Prophix, a leading financial performance management platform helping CFO organizations modernize planning, budgeting, and forecasting. With over 22 years at Prophix, he has supported more than 3,000 finance teams globally in transforming how they close, consolidate, and plan. Alok has led the evolution of FP&A systems from spreadsheet-first to system-first, and now toward AI-enabled finance operations. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Alok explains that while AI is transforming FP&A through speed and automation, the core of finance still depends on structured systems, clean data, and human judgment. He emphasizes that the future of finance is a hybrid model where AI enhances productivity while finance leaders maintain control, context, and strategic oversight. Follow Alok: Website - www.prophix.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alok-ajmera-93896617/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@prophix 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 [04:10] – What great FP&A looks like [09:13] – Revenue and qualitative goals [18:38] – Why AI in FP&A needs structure [29:36] – AI in forecasting and planning [33:45] – Risks, governance, and AI sprawl [45:40] – Soft skills in FP&A [49:11] – Travel and personal reflections [51:25] – Closing thoughts | |||
| Interim FP&A, What it is, and Why it is A Growing Career Path With Tim Stalkamp | 25 juin 2026 | 00:55:27 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Tim Stallkamp, Senior Managing Director at Riveron, alongside co-host Glenn Snyder. Tim shares insights on interim management and how it is reshaping finance leadership by helping companies fill critical gaps, accelerate value creation, and bring experienced finance leaders into organizations during transition periods. Tim Stallkamp is a Senior Managing Director and the leader of Riveron’s Interim Management practice. He is a seasoned turnaround executive who provides interim management and turnaround management services to distressed and under-performing businesses. Tim has led turnarounds as interim chief executive officer (CEO), chief restructuring officer (CRO), chief transformation officer (CTO), and chief financial officer (CFO). Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Tim explains how interim management is reshaping finance leadership by bringing experienced professionals into organizations during critical transitions. These leaders not only fill gaps but also help improve processes, guide decision-making, and leave companies stronger than before. Follow Tim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-stallkamp-537b0317/ Company: 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, 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 [05:06] - What interim management is [07:42] - Why it’s growing [09:13] - Value creation in leadership [13:12] - Defining scope clearly [17:58] - Alignment in engagements [26:11] - Types of interim roles [37:14] - Systems vs skills [42:55] - Private equity decision-making [50:42] - Final thoughts | |||
| How AI is Being Used to Make Better Decisions and Build Faster Models with Nicholas Moen | 18 juin 2026 | 00:46:39 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Nicholas Moen, CMA and Director of Finance at Section, an AI software company. Nicholas shares insights on leveraging AI in FP&A to streamline financial modeling, automate workflows, improve decision-making, and build high-performing teams. He discusses practical strategies for training finance teams, balancing human oversight with AI automation, and applying FP&A insights to drive operational impact in enterprise organizations. Nicholas Moen is a CMA and finance leader at Section, where he reinvents finance through AI, helping organizations build AI-powered workflows at scale. Based in Franklin, Pennsylvania, Nicholas specializes in leveraging AI to streamline FP&A processes, automate workflows, and empower finance teams to focus on strategic decision-making. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Nicholas Moen demonstrates how AI is reshaping the role of FP&A, allowing teams to focus on strategic decision-making instead of manual tasks. By leveraging tools like Claude and Lovable, finance professionals can automate workflows, build models faster, and make more informed business decisions. Follow Nicholas: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-moen-320a11106/ Substack: https://substack.com/@runningfinance 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[02:56] – What great FP&A looks like today [05:14] – Automating spreadsheets with Claude [14:31] – Building micro-apps with Lovable [17:58] – Commission automation [21:26] – Doing analysis on the go [30:12] – Low-hanging AI wins for FP&A [33:58] – Training and knowledge sharing [38:41] – Top soft and technical skills [41:35] – Personal side: music and hobbies [45:53] – How to connect with Nicholas | |||
| Developing Business Acumen necessary to become a strategic business partner with Robert Blanding | 11 juin 2026 | 00:56:26 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Robert Blanding, an experienced finance and operations leader in the ag-tech sector. Robert shares insights on building high-performing FP&A teams, partnering effectively with accounting, developing financial acumen, and applying strategic finance to drive operational impact in global businesses. Robert Blanding is the Chief Financial Officer at Fall Creek, a global leader in the Ag-Tech sector. He brings extensive experience in finance and operations from 18 years at Intel and leadership roles across industrial manufacturing, technology, and ag-tech companies. Robert combines strategic financial leadership with a focus on innovation, long-term business growth, and developing high-performing teams. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Robert shares practical insights for FP&A professionals and aspiring CFOs, emphasizing the importance of business acumen, strong partnerships with accounting, creative problem-solving, and developing high-performing teams. Follow Robert: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfb19/ Company Website: https://www.fallcreeknursery.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 FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. In Today’s Episode [00:00] – Trailer [03:55] – Defining Great FP&A [07:39] – Career Path & First CFO Role [17:49] – Fall Creek & Ag-Tech Overview [21:18] – Importance of FP&A & Accounting Partnership [32:23] – Creative Problem Solving & Process Improvement [38:59] – Challenges in Building High-Performing Teams [45:32] – Advice for Aspiring CFOs [49:11] – Top Technical Skill for FP&A Professionals [52:50] – Personal Interests & Basketball [56:12] – How to Connect with Robert | |||
| Stop Doing Monthly Reports for Analysts to Automate Finance Workflows Using AI with David Dors | 04 juin 2026 | 00:44:46 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst sits down with David Dors to explore how artificial intelligence, particularly Claude, is transforming the future of FP&A. David shares his journey from banking and FP&A into finance transformation, where he now helps finance teams implement AI-powered workflows, automate repetitive processes, and rethink how work gets done in the Office of the CFO. David Dors is a finance transformation consultant and AI educator specializing in helping finance teams adopt Claude, AI agents, and workflow automation. After beginning his career in banking and FP&A, David shifted his focus to helping finance professionals use AI to improve reporting, analysis, forecasting, and decision-making. Through workshops, training programs, and content creation, he teaches finance teams how to build AI-powered systems that save time and allow analysts to focus on higher-value strategic work. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
David explains how finance teams can use AI to eliminate repetitive work, improve efficiency, and spend more time supporting business decisions. He also shares his perspective on the future of FP&A, where professionals will increasingly manage AI agents that handle routine tasks and reporting. non-traditional organizations. Follow Dave: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daviddors/ Website: https://vantagepointconsulting.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 FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. In Today's Episode[00:00] – Trailer[04:13] – Discovering Claude[10:27] – AI Training for Finance Teams[15:19] – Skills & AI Agents[18:13] – AI Productivity Gains[22:23] – Quick AI Wins in FP&A[25:23] – AI Accuracy & Validation[28:29] – Automating Reporting[32:35] – The Future of FP&A[39:01] – Excel Lessons Learned[42:57] – Final Thoughts | |||
| FP&A Strategy for Finance Leaders to Scale a Sports Business Like a Startup with Tim Naddy | 28 mai 2026 | 00:57:51 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Snyder sit down with Dr. Tim Naddy, CFO of the Savannah Bananas, to discuss the unique world of finance in a sports and entertainment organization. Tim shares how he manages FP&A for a fast-growing, multi-team baseball league, balancing operational efficiency with fan engagement, budgeting for multiple teams, and ensuring the internal finance function supports the entire organization’s growth. Tim is the CFO of the Savannah Bananas, a wildly innovative and entertaining baseball organization. With experience in public accounting, higher education, and consulting, Tim brings a unique perspective on financial management, teaching, and operational strategy. He has also authored a book for creatives and non-finance professionals on strategic financial management, helping others understand how to transform ideas into sustainable business ventures. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Dr. Tim Naddy provides a behind-the-scenes look at managing FP&A for the Savannah Bananas, balancing operational efficiency with creative fan engagement. He highlights how finance supports growth across multiple teams and events, ensuring budgets, logistics, and resources are aligned. Listeners gain insights into innovative financial management, practical FP&A strategies, and the importance of adaptability in dynamic, non-traditional organizations. Follow Tim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtimnaddy221b/ Website: https://www.houndtalint.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 FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. In Today’s Episode [00:00] – Trailer [05:07] – Bananas Brand Story [08:12] – Teaching & Book [11:14] – CFO Misconceptions [13:14] – FP&A Process & League [18:12] – Revenue & Ticketing [26:00] – Logistics & Operations [32:28] – Team Management [46:51] – Banana Ball Rules [54:42] – FP&A Advice & Closing | |||
| The Future of FP&A with AI for Finance Professionals to Move Beyond Excel Analysis with Derek Baker | 21 mai 2026 | 00:57:45 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst chats with Derek Baker, the Head of Strategic Finance at Circle, a growth-stage SaaS company. Derek shares insights from his experience in building strategic finance functions, scaling finance teams, and using AI to optimize financial reporting. Derek Baker is the Head of Strategic Finance at Circle, a growth-stage SaaS company focused on building an all-in-one platform for online communities. He has built the Strategic Finance function from the ground up, covering areas like pricing, sales compensation, investor due diligence, and AI-powered financial reporting. Prior to Circle, Derek co-founded The FP&A Hub with Paul Barnhurst and Liran Edelist to support finance professionals. His career spans FP&A roles across SaaS, marketplace, and biotech startups. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Derek shares that the future of FP&A is all about embracing technology and innovation. He emphasizes that it's no longer just about spreadsheets and traditional methods; it’s about leveraging AI and data to drive smarter financial decisions. By focusing on both the strategic and technical sides of finance, professionals can better align with business goals and create more impactful outcomes. Follow Derek: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-d-baker/ Website: https://community.thefpahub.com/home
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] – Introduction & Derek’s Background [06:00] – What Does Great FP&A Look Like? [12:00] – Scaling Finance Functions in Startups [17:00] – The Role of AI in FP&A [22:00] – Building an AI-Powered Financial Reporting System [28:00] – Why Data Architecture is Key to AI Success [33:00] – The Future of Financial Modeling with AI [40:00] – Automating Monthly Finance Reports Using AI [45:00] – Data Integration and Financial Modeling for Future Growth [50:00] – Insights on Scaling FP&A Teams in Tech Startups [53:00] – Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways | |||
| Your Data Won't Convince Anyone. Do This Instead. | Gabrielle Dolan on FP&A Storytelling | 14 mai 2026 | 01:03:03 | |
FP&A & AI Software Showcase: Explore Leading Tools FP&A leaders are embracing AI, and we’re here to help. On May 21st, I’ll host the FP&A & AI Software Showcase, featuring FP&A planning and AI tools like Concourse, Sapien, Drivetrain, and Una AI. Join us for live demos, insights, and no sales pressure. Register today: www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-software-showcase In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Gabrielle Dolan, a global expert in strategic storytelling, about the power of storytelling in business and how it can transform communication. Gabrielle shares her journey from senior leadership at the National Australia Bank to becoming a bestselling author and storytelling expert. She discusses how storytelling helps finance professionals influence decisions, engage teams, and communicate complex messages effectively. Gabrielle Dolan is a global expert in strategic storytelling and communication, having worked with leaders from companies like Amazon, EY, Uber, and the Obama Foundation. With over 20 years of experience in leadership roles and storytelling, Gabrielle is the bestselling author of eight books, including her latest Story Intelligence: The Craft of Authentic Storytelling Made Smarter with AI. She is also the co-host of the podcast Keeping It Real with Jack and Ral, which ranks in Spotify's top 3% most shared podcasts. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Gabrielle Dolan shared her invaluable insights on the power of storytelling in business, especially for finance professionals. She highlighted how storytelling is a vital tool for influencing decisions, building connections, and making complex messages more memorable. Gabrielle emphasized the importance of authenticity in storytelling and explained how AI can enhance the storytelling process without losing the human connection Follow Gabrielle: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielledolan/ Podcast Link - https://podfollow.com/keeping-it-real-with-jac-and-ral YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@KeepingItRealwithJacandRal 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 [03:18] – Gabrielle's Leadership to Storytelling Journey [06:00] – Challenges in Transitioning to Storytelling [10:00] – Storytelling's Role in Business Decisions [13:37] – Why Data Alone Won't Drive Action [17:44] – Finding the Right Story for Your Message [22:10] – Storytelling and Data in Finance [30:14] – The Power of Story Intelligence in Leadership [35:09] – AI's Role in Enhancing Storytelling [40:15] – Rapid Fire Questions [43:00] – Conclusion & Key Takeaways | |||
| How FP&A Teams Can Improve Decision-Making with Scenario Planning & Financial Models - Michael | 07 mai 2026 | 01:04:19 | |
FP&A & AI Software Showcase: Explore Leading Tools FP&A leaders are embracing AI, and we’re here to help. On May 21st, I’ll host the FP&A & AI Software Showcase, featuring FP&A planning and AI tools like Concourse, Sapien, Drivetrain, and Una AI. Join us for live demos, insights, and no sales pressure. Register today: www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-software-showcase In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Michael Gould, a technology entrepreneur and founder of Kaleidoscope, about his extensive experience in financial planning and modelling. Michael shares insights from his 40+ years in the industry, including his work with Anaplan, and discusses how modern finance teams can break free from the limitations of spreadsheets and legacy systems. Michael Gould is a technology entrepreneur and software engineer with over 40 years of experience in financial planning and modeling systems. After studying Mathematics and Computation at the University of Oxford, Michael co-created Adaytum, a leading business planning platform, and later founded Anaplan, a globally successful enterprise planning platform that became a British tech unicorn. Today, he is the founder of Kaleidoscope, focusing on rethinking financial modeling for modern teams and continuing to pioneer innovations that drive better decision-making in business. . Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Glenn explains that career growth in FP&A is no longer about following a fixed path or relying on credentials. It comes from building relationships, gaining real experience, and understanding how the business works. He also highlights that strong professionals go beyond numbers by connecting financial results to real business drivers and supporting better decisions. Follow Michael: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/migould/ Website: https://www.kaleidoscope.com/?utm_source=partner_fpandaguys&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=interview 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 [06:00] – Challenges of Multi-Dimensional Modelling [12:00] – Transitioning to Anaplan [15:00] – Kaleidoscope’s Mission to Help Small Businesses [21:00] – The Role of AI in Financial Modelling [27:00] – The Future of Financial Modelling [33:00] – Key Learnings from the Entrepreneurial Journey [39:00] – How AI is Changing Financial Decision-Making [45:00] – Overcoming the Data Challenges in Finance [51:00] – Final Thoughts on Innovation and Future Trends in Finance [57:00] – Conclusion and Key Takeaways | |||
| FP&A Career Advice and the Current State of FP&A with Glenn and Paul | 30 avr. 2026 | 00:58:04 | |
FP&A & AI Software Showcase: Explore Leading Tools FP&A leaders are embracing AI, and we’re here to help. On May 21st, I’ll host the FP&A & AI Software Showcase, featuring FP&A planning and AI tools like Concourse, Sapien, Drivetrain, and Una AI. Join us for live demos, insights, and no sales pressure. Register today: www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-software-showcase In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Glenn Snyder about the current state of FP&A, focusing on career growth, hiring challenges, and how the role continues to evolve. Glenn shares his perspective on why networking matters more than ever in today’s job market, how professionals can stand out without relying only on certifications, and what it really takes to move up in FP&A. They also discuss the shift toward strategic partnership, the importance of understanding business drivers, and how leadership and empathy shape long-term success Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Glenn explains that career growth in FP&A is no longer about following a fixed path or relying on credentials. It comes from building relationships, gaining real experience, and understanding how the business works. He also highlights that strong professionals go beyond numbers by connecting financial results to real business drivers and supporting better decisions. Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder/ Website: https://www.riveron.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 FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. In Today’s Episode [02:29] – FP&A Education Gap [06:34] – Certifications vs Experience [09:56] – Networking for Jobs [11:22] – Building Personal Brand [12:16] – Volunteering & Experience [17:45] – FP&A as Strategic Partner [22:19] – Finance & Business Roles [24:03] – Empathy in Leadership [29:46] – Career Growth Strategy [33:14] – Leadership vs Execution [38:12] – Drivers & Scenario Planning [44:50] – People Management Lessons [52:44] – Ethics & Transparency | |||
| How FP&A Professionals Use AI to Move from Reporting to Strategy with Carolina Lago | 23 avr. 2026 | 00:58:44 | |
FP&A & AI Software Showcase: Explore Leading Tools FP&A leaders are embracing AI, and we’re here to help. On May 21st, I’ll host the FP&A & AI Software Showcase, featuring FP&A planning and AI tools like Concourse, Sapien, Drivetrain, and Una- AI. Join us for live demos, insights, and no sales pressure. Register today: www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-software-showcase Onto this weeks episode In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Carolina Lago, founder of Tactic Financial, about the impact of AI on financial planning and analysis (FP&A). Carolina shares her extensive experience in the industry, discusses the power of AI in transforming finance workflows, and explains how AI is amplifying the work of finance professionals rather than replacing them. She delves into her use of AI agents, like Claude, as thinking partners in her work, and gives practical advice for finance teams on leveraging AI for strategic decision-making. Carolina Lago is the founder of Tactic Financial, where she helps FP&A professionals integrate AI into their workflows through hands-on training and practical tools. With over 20 years of experience in financial planning, analysis, and modeling across multiple industries and continents, she brings a unique perspective on how technology can amplify (not replace) the work of finance teams. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Carolina explains that AI is not here to replace humans but to enhance their capabilities and free up time for strategic decision-making. She also emphasizes that understanding workflows and the human factor will be key in effectively integrating AI into finance roles. Follow Carolina: This week's Guest Carolina has launched a hands-on program for FP&A professionals who want to move from manual processes to AI-powered workflows. Learn to use Claude for FP&A: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-carolinalago/ 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 [02:50] – FP&A : Strategy & Operations [06:43] – AI in Reducing Manual Tasks [10:52] – Transforming Finance with AI [14:26] – Learning AI & Human Judgment [19:37] – AI in Finance: Real Applications [25:57] – The Future of AI in FP&A [33:12] – Elevating FP&A with AI [39:45] – Adopting AI in FP&A [45:30] – AI for Better Decision-Making [50:15] – Getting Started with AI [54:05] – Final Thoughts on AI & Collaboration | |||
| How CFOs Can Reduce Manual Reporting and Increase Strategic Impact Using AI with Brian McGowan | 16 avr. 2026 | 00:44:38 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst talks with Bryan McGowan, founder of Alpyne, about what great FP&A looks like, how technical skills can improve finance work, and where AI is actually useful for CFOs and finance teams. Bryan shares how his background in engineering shaped his approach to finance, why he built Alpyne to solve real workflow problems, and how AI can reduce manual work so finance professionals can spend more time on analysis and business partnering. Bryan McGowan is the founder of Alpyne and a CFO with a rare mix of finance and technical skill. After spending a decade leading finance in tech, he launched Alpyne in 2021 to solve a problem he had lived himself: great CFOs were spending too much time on manual work and not enough time on strategic thinking. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
Bryan explains that FP&A is not about predicting the future perfectly. It is about giving the business a useful framework to make better decisions. He also shares that AI works best when it is used on process-heavy work like cleanup, mapping, reporting, and system workflow. Follow Bryan: Primary Alpyne website: https://getalpyne.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-mcgowan-8572644/ 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 [02:55] – What Great FP&A Looks Like [04:03] – How Bryan Uses AI Today [08:26] – Why Technical Skills Matter in Finance [10:47] – Why Bryan Built Alpyne [14:24] – Using AI in Finance Workflows [17:49] – Building Client Context Into AI Tools [21:44] – Checks, Controls, and Trust in Finance [24:26] – A Real Finance Problem Solved With AI [29:04] – Advice for Finance Professionals Starting With AI [33:12] – What Holds Finance Teams Back From AI [35:31] – The Most Important Skills in FP&A [40:43] – Better Business Partnering and Closing Thoughts | |||
| What 100 FP&A Episodes Taught Me About Career Growth, Failure, and the Future of Finance | 09 avr. 2026 | 00:23:51 | |
In this special solo episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst celebrates reaching 100 episodes of the podcast while also reflecting on his broader journey of hosting over 200 FP&A episodes across multiple shows. He shares lessons from his experience in FP&A, career growth, and learning AI, along with what actually matters in the field today. He also shares his thoughts on AI and how it’s changing finance workflows, explaining why building repeatable processes matters more than just prompting. He also previews upcoming conversations with professionals already using AI in their day-to-day work. Expect to Learn:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 [03:38] – Career Growth Is Not a Ladder [06:37] – Turning Down Offers & Career Decisions [10:06] – AI Skills, Courses & Future Focus [14:52] – AI Is a Skill You Have to Practice [18:34] – Modern Finance Platforms Built for the AI Era [21:49] – AI Won’t Replace Technical Skills | |||
| How AI Agents are Reshaping the Finance Tech Stack with Josh LaSov | 02 avr. 2026 | 00:51:16 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst is joined by Josh LaSov to explore how FP&A is evolving with data, BI, and AI. They discuss how finance professionals can move beyond traditional reporting by combining financial and operational data, and why understanding data at a deeper level is now essential. Josh shares how AI is changing analysis, forecasting, and workflows, and how FP&A teams can use it to increase productivity and deliver faster insights. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| AI Strategy Finance Leaders Must Use to Avoid Siloed Tools and Failed Adoption with Vikram Bhandari | 26 mars 2026 | 00:49:54 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Snyder are joined by Vikram Bhandari to explore how organizations should approach AI in finance and FP&A. They discuss why most companies fail with AI adoption, the importance of enterprise-wide strategy over siloed tools, and how finance teams can evolve from reporting to forward-looking decision-making. Vikram shares practical insights on AI readiness, forecasting, and how leaders can leverage AI to drive better business outcomes. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| How CFOs Are Using the Return on Change to Fix Failing Projects and Rethink ROI with Vincent & Ilana | 19 mars 2026 | 00:55:09 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst is joined by Vincent Messina and Ilana Esterrich to discuss how organizations should approach ROI and transformation. They dive into why traditional ROI methods often fail, the concept of Return on Change, and how financial leaders can better manage software implementations and drive business outcomes. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| The Marketing Attribution Strategy for FP&A Teams to Take Control of Marketing ROI with Jeff Greenfield | 12 mars 2026 | 00:49:15 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Jeff Greenfield, an entrepreneur, advisor, and founder of Provalytics, a leading attribution and measurement solution. Jeff discusses marketing attribution, the challenges marketers face in proving the impact of their campaigns, and the evolving role of FP&A in understanding marketing spend. He shares his entrepreneurial journey, from building an SEO platform to leading Provalytics in providing marketers with a single source of truth for their efforts. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| Practical Charts for Finance Teams to Turn Data Visuals into Strategic Tools with Nick Desbarats | 05 mars 2026 | 00:59:21 | |
In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Nick Desbarats, a data visualisation expert, bestselling author, and independent educator, to discuss data visualisation. Nick talks about the skills needed to create effective charts, how to avoid common mistakes, and the importance of understanding the "job" of a chart. He shares his journey from software executive to becoming an authority in the field and explains why the true skill of visualising data goes beyond knowing the software. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| How HR & FP&A Teams Build Trust to Improve Decision-Making & Business Performance with Deborah & Cynthia | 26 févr. 2026 | 01:03:19 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Snyder are joined by HR leaders Cynthia Kenny and Deborah Hill to discuss the important partnership between HR and FP&A. They explore how aligning goals across departments can drive organizational success, share personal stories about career development, and highlight the importance of trust and collaboration. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| FP&A Career Path for Finance Professionals to Become Strategic CFOs with Rey Del Valle | 19 févr. 2026 | 00:49:11 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Rey del Valle to discuss what it really takes to move from reporting the business to steering it. Rey shares lessons from more than 25 years across media, entertainment, ecommerce, and fintech, explaining why curiosity, collaboration, and driver-based modeling are essential to effective finance leadership. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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. [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 | |||
| Establishing A Mission, A Culture And Trust Is Key To Building A High Performing FP&A Team With Aswin | 12 févr. 2026 | 00:46:42 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Aswin Saravanan, VP of Finance at Qualtrics, to explore what it really takes for FP&A teams to move from insight to action. Aswin shares why trust is the foundation of strategic finance, how culture and vision enable better decision making, and why simplicity in financial modeling often delivers the greatest impact 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
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| The Analytics Lessons FP&A Leaders Need to Build Better, Repeatable Workflows with Ned Harding | 05 févr. 2026 | 00:54:43 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Ned Harding - a true pioneer in the data analytics space - to talk about why most data tools still don’t meet the needs of today’s collaborative teams. From building Alteryx from the ground up to launching a new venture (Enso Analytics), Ned shares his take on what’s broken in data workflows and how FP&A teams can fix it. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| The Role Of FP&A In Being IPO Ready With Jeffrey Bernstein | 29 janv. 2026 | 00:56:14 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Snyder sit down with Jeffrey Bernstein to explore how finance leaders can better communicate financial insights and influence decision-making across an organization. The conversation focuses on the gap between technical financial knowledge and the ability to clearly explain what the numbers actually mean to non-finance stakeholders. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| How FP&A Professionals Can Evolve Beyond Reporting and Become Strategic Partners with Bryan Lapidus | 22 janv. 2026 | 00:44:46 | |
In this engaging episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes back Bryan Lapidus, Director of FP&A Practice at the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP), to explore how finance professionals can better prepare for the evolving demands of the industry. They discuss how AFP supports the finance community, the role of technology in shaping FP&A, and why soft skills are critical in today’s collaborative environment. 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:
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 | |||
| How To Make FP&A Software Tools Work For You And The Future Of FP&A With Ben Pierce | 15 janv. 2026 | 00:51:05 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst talks with Ben Pierce, General Manager of Workday Adaptive Planning, to discuss the evolving landscape of FP&A, the challenges of planning software, and the future of finance in an AI-driven world. Ben shares his career journey, from semiconductor engineering to leadership roles in the FP&A software industry, and dives into his vision for how AI is transforming the way businesses plan and make decisions. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| Scaling FP&A with Growth to Build Trusted Processes and Strategic Influence with Noam Sever | 08 janv. 2026 | 00:45:42 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Noam Sever, Head of Global FP&A at Cellebrite, for a deep and thoughtful conversation on building impactful finance teams, scaling FP&A processes, and the human side of finance leadership. Noam shares his experience driving financial planning in high-growth environments and highlights the value of simplicity, consistency, and communication in finance transformation. This episode is a masterclass in aligning FP&A with business needs and building trust through data, systems, and people. 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:
Here are a few quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| The 80/20 Strategy for FP&A Leaders to Replace Long Budgeting with Business Impact - Andrew Hull | 01 janv. 2026 | 00:59:52 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst talks with Andrew Hull, a seasoned finance leader in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. They explore the role of FP&A professionals in driving business results, navigating inflation, and transitioning from traditional budgeting to impactful analytics. 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:
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| How Finance Leaders Can Transform FP&A Through Vision and Team Culture with Brett Hampson | 25 déc. 2025 | 00:54:51 | |
In this episode, Paul Barnhurst looks into practical frameworks and leadership strategies for finance professionals with guest Brett Hampson. Brett discusses what he believes constitutes great FP&A and how grassroots finance transformations, rather than top-down technology implementations, can foster a proactive, value-creating FP&A culture. 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
Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| A Developer Toolkit for FP&A Professionals and Various Musings with Microsoft MVP Jordan Goldmeier | 18 déc. 2025 | 01:02:24 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes back Jordan Goldmeier, Excel expert, author, and longtime friend of the show, for a wide-ranging and honest conversation about careers, technology, and growth. Jordan reflects on his unconventional career path, from auditing and operations research to becoming a Microsoft MVP, author, and entrepreneur. The discussion covers Excel’s evolution, why many finance professionals underuse powerful tools, and Jordan’s latest projects aimed at modernizing how power users work with spreadsheets. 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:
Here are a few quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| The CFO Leading Talent, Operations & Corporate Communications (Kate Gulliver, CFO & CAO, Wayfair) | 15 déc. 2025 | 00:40:31 | |
Disclaimer: 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 | |||
| The Soft Skills in Finance for CFOs to Build Influence and Leadership with Rosemary Linden | 11 déc. 2025 | 00:58:07 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Glenn Snyder and Rosemary Linden to talk about the important role of FP&A in today’s business world. They share stories from their careers, including lessons learned from failures, unique requests they've received, and their experiences navigating the complex world of finance. 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:
Here are a few quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| The CFO Role is Changing for Finance Leaders to Own AI, Talent, and Strategy with Omar Choucair | 04 déc. 2025 | 00:47:43 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Omar Choucair, the CFO of Trintech, to discuss the evolving role of the CFO, the importance of technology in finance, and the strategic value of FP&A teams. Omar shares insights on how AI is transforming financial operations, the need for technical skills in FP&A, and the shift in CFO responsibilities over the years. 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:
Here are a few quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| Power BI and a Creator Mindset Are Essential for FP&A Teams to Replace Excel with Rishi Sapra | 28 nov. 2025 | 00:53:53 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Rishi Sapra to explore how finance professionals can leverage business intelligence tools like Power BI to drive better decision-making. Rishi discusses how the role of FP&A is evolving with technology, and why it’s essential for finance teams to not only consume data but to create and model it in ways that deliver actionable insights. 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:
Here are a few quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| Key learnings and takeaways from actual attendees of Campfire's AI finance summit | 20 nov. 2025 | 00:46:13 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst takes you inside the Campfire Finance Forward AI Summit in San Francisco, a one-of-a-kind event exploring how AI is transforming finance. Instead of one guest, this special edition features four conversations with top finance leaders and innovators who share what they’re seeing, building, and doing with AI in real time. From ERP innovation to the EQ behind great CFOs, this episode delivers tactical advice and big-picture thinking from the forefront of modern finance. 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:
Here are a few quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| Best Practice Tips to Successfully Implement FP&A Software with James Myers | 13 nov. 2025 | 00:53:18 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul welcomes James Myers, a financial systems and planning expert known for helping organizations modernize their FP&A functions. Drawing from years of experience implementing planning, modeling, and consolidation tools, James breaks down what makes FP&A software implementations succeed or fail. From understanding when your system has reached its limits to managing change and choosing the right implementation partners, James shares the steps every finance leader should take to avoid expensive mistakes. 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:
Here are a few quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| The Strategy Gap in FP&A for Finance Leaders to Bridge Cash Flow and Planning with Moataz Mukhaimer | 06 nov. 2025 | 00:51:34 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul is joined by strategic advisor and podcast host Moataz Mukhaimer to explore the intersection of finance and strategy, where true business impact is made. With over 20 years of experience guiding SMEs, family-owned businesses, and startups across the Middle East, Moataz explains why finance professionals must step beyond Excel and deeply understand the business to add real value. From diagnosing problems through numbers to designing KPIs that reflect a company’s vision, this episode is a masterclass in how FP&A can lead, not just support. 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:
Here are a few quotes from the episode:
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 | |||
| The Transformation Framework for CFOs to Lead Strategy, Culture & Execution at Scale with Paul S. Young | 03 nov. 2025 | 00:50:20 | |
Note: 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
Here are a few quotes from the episode:
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” | |||
| The Power of Teaching in FP&A to Influence Executives & Bridge Communication Gaps with Carl Seidman | 30 oct. 2025 | 00:47:22 | |
In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul and Glenn are joined by Carl Seidman to explore a powerful but often overlooked role in finance: being a teacher. Drawing from decades of experience across consulting, education, and finance leadership, Carl discusses how FP&A professionals must learn to teach, whether it’s helping executives see the story behind the numbers, guiding junior staff, or translating finance for cross-functional teams. The episode is packed with practical advice, personal stories, and thoughtful insights about how teaching, influence, and communication shape success in finance. 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:
Here are a few quotes from the episode:
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 | |||