Secrets of Rockstar CFOs – Details, episodes & analysis

Today, we meet a trailblazer – Bolanle Williams-Olley, the CFO of the prestigious New York architecture firm, Mancini Duffy. Join Jack McCullough as Bolanle shares her remarkable story – from her upbringing in Lagos, fueled by her mother’s emphasis on education, to her unexpected yet successful career pivot. Jack and Bolanle unpack Mancini Duffy’s rich history and dive deep into their innovative approach, featuring the patent-approved Toolbelt that’s revolutionizing client engagement through virtual reality. Bolanle’s story embodies resilience and bold leadership, shaping the future of Mancini Duffy.

Curious about the secrets behind the success of a Fortune 500 company? In this episode, Jack McCullough sits down with Gina Mastantuono, CFO of ServiceNow, to uncover the strategies and insights that have driven her illustrious career. From transforming ServiceNow’s offline processes into digital experiences to achieving over $10 billion in revenue, Gina shares her journey from humble beginnings in Long Island to leading one of the most innovative companies in enterprise software. Discover the importance of mentorship, the power of taking risks, and how a customer-centric approach can fuel exponential growth. Tune in to learn how Gina’s story and ServiceNow’s groundbreaking achievements can inspire and inform your own professional path.

Jack McCullough sits down with financial guru Sean Brecker, who shares how he achieved success by putting his entrepreneurial spirit into action. He opens up about falling in love with global finance, his experiences working in investment banking, and the inception of his current company, ŌURA. Sean talks about what is like to work in the healthcare and wellness space, as well as why this is close to his heart. He also discusses his numerous volunteer work and how he was raised by his parents laser-focused on giving back in any way he can.

Mandy Fields, the CFO Of E.L.F. Beauty, shares her secret of how she leads the American cosmetics brand to its growth. This brand, known for its high-quality, cruelty-free, and vegan products that are accessible, offers a comprehensive line of beauty products for different skin tones and types. Mandy also reveals how she helped the business evolve and adapt to the fast pace of its evolution. She also shares a tip for becoming successful in your career. Mandy had so much to offer in this episode. So, hit that play button and join her as she unveils more of her secrets!

After separating its consumer division last year, Johnson & Johnson is now focused on Innovative Medicine and MedTech. Joining us today is the EVP and CFO of J&J, Joe Wolk. For Joe, Johnson & Johnson is very much a family business. Joe shares his career journey, his approach to building a world-class global financial organization, and how generative AI is impacting his role as CFO. He also shares an insider’s perspective on last year’s historic separation of Kenvue. Tune in! 

Jack McCullough is joined by Deanna Strable, CFO of Principal Financial Group. In this episode, she shares the biggest changes she played a role in since she joined this financial services company, as well as her relationship with their CEO. She explains how they are navigating growing client needs in the middle of high-interest rates and lingering inflation. Deanna also opens up about her role in PFG’s audit committee, doing some volunteer work, her advocacy for women’s leadership, and starting a workout cohort.

A massive part of CFO success is being in a company whose values and mission you deeply resonate with. That is the case with today's guest, who took her expertise to help a biotech company do its share in tackling a global pandemic. In this episode, Kelly MacDonald, CFO of Dynavax Technologies Corporation, discusses the pivotal moments in her career. She talks about the value of both a CPA and an MBA, and the importance of mentors in shaping her professional growth. Kelly shares how she redefines the role of the CFO, emphasizing the strategic importance of the finance organization. She talks about her unique partnership with Dynavax's CEO and how their collaboration contributes to the company's success. Gain valuable insights into the dynamic world of biotech finance, including the challenges and opportunities faced by CFOs in the evolving landscape. Whether you're aspiring to a CFO role, interested in the biotech industry, or seeking inspiration for professional growth, Kelly's journey offers valuable lessons and perspectives. Tune in to discover the intersection of finance, strategy, and leadership in the ever-changing world of biotechnology.

The only path to go is forward when a life-altering crisis comes. Today’s guest faced one of life’s tremendous challenges, and here’s her secret on how she managed to stay on track. Ranu Sharma, a Finance Director, has a story to tell about mentorship, public speaking, the challenges she faced with her son, and how the tragic event changed her leadership. Although Ranu faced a life-altering personal crisis, she went through, but she managed to stand against that storm and tread into life’s raging waves. She shares advice on how professionals could also trudge into your journey no matter the challenge blocking your path. So, step into this inspiring episode with Ranu Sharma and be a rockstar professional like her! 

The advent of technology paves the path for businesses to deliver cutting-edge services or products. Joining Jack McCullough today is Glenn Hopper to reveal his secret about how CFOs remain the leading edge in the business. He is a CFO at Eventus Advisory Group and the author of Deep-Finance: Corporate Finance In The Information Age. In this episode, as a guru on Gen AI, Glenn shares his insights on the importance of understanding generative AI and how it helps produce better results. He also addresses data privacy and data security. Not only does he provide a wealth of insights in this episode, but Glenn also offers new possibilities in positioning yourself as the vanguard towards success. So, tune in to this episode with Jack and Glenn today!

Running in an ultramarathon is a great teaching experience for every leader. It opens your eyes that success is not just about the run itself, but how your push boundaries and going beyond your abilities. Jack McCullough sits down with Sandra Beaver, CFO of Evolus, to share the parallels between ultramarathons and her professional journey. She discusses the complexities of financial leaders, particularly the strategic collaboration between a CEO and CFO. Sandra also opens up about the ups and downs of leading a multimillion-dollar company, the symbiotic relationship between self-care and career success, and the importance of attentive listening.