The FP&A Guy Network

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Dr. Eric Kelley, Finance Professor | Microsoft MVP (Excel), and one of the leading educators in financial modeling. Eric shares how his passion for teaching, mathematics, and financial markets led him into academia, and why developing scalable financial models starts with understanding the business before opening Excel.Dr. Eric Kelley is a Professor of Finance at the University of Tennessee's Haslam College of Business, a Microsoft Excel MVP, and Faculty Fellow with the Microsoft Excel Collegiate Challenge (MECC). He coaches the University of Tennessee's Excel eSports team, which won the 2024 MECC World Championship, and is passionate about using financial modeling and Excel eSports to prepare students for finance careers.Expect to Learn:Why communication matters as much as modeling skills.Building scalable financial models that last.Common financial modeling mistakes to avoid.How Excel eSports sharpens problem-solving.Why competition improves modeling skills.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"Great financial modelers need strong oral communication skills because they must explain the story behind the model, not just build it." - Dr. Eric Kelley"You're not trying to solve a single problem, you're trying to build a system that can take flexible inputs and generate useful outputs." - Dr. Eric KelleyEric Kelley shares why financial modelers need more than technical skills, highlighting the importance of communication, problem-solving, and building scalable models. He also discusses how Excel eSports and hands-on learning are helping students develop real-world modeling skills for future finance careers.Follow Eric:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ekkell/\University of Tennessee: https://haslam.utk.edu/Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqWIn Today's Episode:[00:00] - Introduction & Dr. Eric Kelley[02:10] - Eric’s Finance Journey[03:17] - The Top Modeling Skill[04:40] - Understanding Your Model[05:33] - Common Modeling Mistakes[08:03] - Excel eSports Explained[10:31] - Performing Under Pressure[11:51] - Coaching Excel Champions[14:22] - Excel eSports in Modeling[17:13] - Teaching with FMI Cases[18:57] - The Future of Financial Modeling

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:Why AI should be your finance copilotHow to build trusted AI workflowsWhen to use AI vs. Power QueryBest practices for secure AI adoptionKey skills for the future of FP&AHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"A strong analyst using AI becomes much stronger. A weak analyst using AI simply makes mistakes faster." - Albert Lee"The best FP&A professionals don't just explain the numbers, they explain what they mean and what should happen next." – Albert LeeAlbert 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

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:Build FP&A teams with the three Cs: communication, curiosity, courage.Rare specialists can outperform broad generalists.Spot true critical specialists vs. those who just seem important.Find hidden influence by who people turn to in crises.Avoid promoting specialists away from their best work.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:You want to encourage a culture of what I call the three Cs, which are communications, curiosity, and courage." – Jack McCullough"The Rodman paradox is there might be people that on the surface seem like they have a limited skillset, but because there are so few people who can do it well, they may actually be more important to your organisational success than executives." – Jack McCulloughJack 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

Future Finance host Paul Barnhurst and co-host Glenn Hopper are joined by Alex Brower, co-founder and CEO of QFlow.ai, to unpack why forecasting often breaks down even when teams have plenty of data. The discussion focuses on how finance and go-to-market teams can work from shared inputs, improve planning accuracy, and use AI without losing the structure needed for reliable decisions.Alex Brower is the co-founder and CEO of QFlow.ai, helping finance and go-to-market teams connect data, improve forecast accuracy, and boost analyst productivity up to five times. He previously led finance and marketing at high-growth tech firms like AppTelligent (acquired by VMware) and Cloud Academy (acquired by QA).In this episode, you will discover:Fix data plumbing before system consolidation.Use data dictionaries for consistent definitions.AI helps, but semantic logic is still needed.Vibe coding can create hidden costs if untested.Start with key unanswered questions, then plan solutions.Alex shares lessons from leading finance, operations, and marketing teams at high-growth companies, including what he learned from living the forecast tension on both sides of the table.Follow Alex:Website: https://qflow.ai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexbrower/Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.ai:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today’s Episode:[00:00] – Trailer[03:44] – Finance-to-marketing journey & QFlow’s solution[07:10] – Data plumbing vs. alignment[11:37] – MCPs, AI, and logic layers[14:50] – Risks of vibe coding & maintainability[21:56] – How QFlow handles data, planning, and storytelling[30:57] – Alignment before strategy & reducing fact-hunting[35:39] – Where CFOs/FP&A should start modernizing[44:03] – Closing & sponsor sign-off

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Dr. Eric Kelley, finance professor, Microsoft Excel MVP, and financial modeling educator, to discuss how financial modeling education is evolving through Excel Esports and hands-on learning. Eric shares how he uses competitions, real-world cases, and structured modeling techniques to help students build stronger financial modeling skills, think in systems, and create models that support better decision-making.Dr. Eric Kelley is a finance professor at the University of Tennessee’s Haslam College of Business, where he teaches finance at the undergraduate, MBA, and PhD levels. He is a Microsoft Excel MVP and faculty fellow with the Microsoft Excel Collegiate Challenge. Eric focuses on developing integrated financial modeling education, helping students build scalable models through innovative techniques and competitive Excel-based learning.Expect to Learn:Why communication skills are critical for financial modelersHow to build models as flexible systems instead of one-time solutionsHow Excel Esports helps students develop real-world modeling skillsHow competitions can improve financial modeling educationHere are a few quotes from the episode:"At the end of the day, we've got to be able to communicate. We've got to be able to tell stories." - Eric Kelley"You're not trying to find a loan payment. You're trying to build a system that is going to take in a flexible set of inputs and generate a loan payment as an output." - Eric KelleyEric Kelley shares how financial modeling education can move beyond traditional instruction by combining technical skills, communication, and competitive problem-solving. Through Excel Esports and structured case-based learning, he helps students understand that strong models are not just about getting the right answer, but about building systems that can adapt, scale, and support decisions.Follow Eric:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ekkell/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@erickelley5900Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqWIn Today’s Episode:[00:00] – Trailer[04:33] – The Importance of Communication Skills[09:12] – Discovering Excel Esports[11:35] – Competing Under Pressure[13:01] – Coaching Future Financial Modelers[16:36] – Bringing Financial Modeling Into the Classroom[23:51] – Building Excel Esports Cases[32:00] – Students’ Biggest Modeling Breakthroughs[36:23] – Advice for Aspiring Modelers[38:10] – Excel Rapid Fire Questions[43:33] – Final Advice on Learning Financial Modeling

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:Why most businesses underprice their productsHow customer psychology influences pricingThe role of FP&A in pricing strategyWhen outcome-based pricing works bestWhy storytelling makes data more impactfulHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"The problem with underpricing is that no one is going to tell you you're underpriced." – Etinosa Agbonlahor"People don't walk around knowing what your product should cost, they infer your value from your price." – Etinosa AgbonlahorEtinosa 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

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:What makes FP&A a true force multiplier inside organizationsHow data stewardship, collaboration, and forecasting define great finance teamsWhy AI must stay deterministic when handling financial calculationsThe difference between probabilistic AI and structured finance systemsHow AI agents support FP&A without replacing financial controlHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"The biggest opportunity is to take inefficient manual workflows and simplify them with AI agents, delivering value quickly while building confidence in the team." – Alok Ajmera"AI democratizes capabilities, but there must be governance and discipline. It’s easy to build things, but maintaining them is hard." – Alok AjmeraAlok 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.comLinkedIn - 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

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper sit down with Nick Jain and Daniel Settel, co-founders of Eagle Rock CFO, to discuss how AI is reshaping FP&A and fractional CFO services. Nick and Dan explain how their AI-powered system combines structured data processing, automation, and financial expertise to help companies analyze complex financial data faster, reduce manual workload, and uncover hidden value in their operations.Dan and Nick are co-founders of Eagle Rock CFO, a financial advisory firm helping mid-size businesses grow faster and improve profitability. They combine AI and technology to deliver operational finance insights at a fraction of traditional consulting costs. Both are Harvard Business School graduates, with undergraduate degrees from Stanford and Dartmouth. Dan previously co-founded FinTech company Zanbato and worked as a professional investor at PrimeCap, while Nick has experience in private equity investing and scaling companies across SaaS, footwear, and trucking.In this episode, you will discover:AI works best when paired with structured financial data, not raw inputsWhy deterministic systems still matter alongside AI in finance workflowsHow Eagle Rock’s 5-step system improves financial analysis accuracyWhy human oversight is still needed in AI-powered FP&A systemsHow fractional CFOs can save 20–50 hours per month using AI toolsNick and Daniel demonstrate how AI is transforming finance by automating analysis while still relying on structured systems and human judgment. Their approach shows that the future of FP&A is not fully autonomous AI, but a hybrid model where AI enhances decision-making, improves efficiency, and strengthens financial visibility.Follow Nick:Website: https://www.eaglerockcfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickmjain/Follow Dan:Website: https://www.eaglerockcfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dsettel/Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today’s Episode:[00:00] – Trailer[04:10] – Founding Eagle Rock CFO[06:21] – Deterministic vs probabilistic systems[07:22] – Why agents are not enough[09:13] – Data compression and structuring[10:13] – Human oversight in AI workflows[14:51] – Data mess in SMB finance[18:38] – White-label and consulting model[22:18] – How to start using AI safely[29:36] – CFO vs CEO vs CIO experience[33:45] – Closing thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Jorge Rojas, finance professor, consultant, and Advanced Financial Modeler, to explore how emerging technologies are reshaping financial modeling. Jorge shares insights from his latest research on spatial finance and Earth observation data, explaining how satellite imagery, AI, and alternative data sources are transforming forecasting, investment analysis, ESG reporting, and risk management. Jorge Rojas is a finance professor, consultant, CFA Charterholder, and Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) with a PhD in Finance from Tulane University, where he also serves as an Adjunct Professor. He has taught finance across the United States, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, and is the author of several books on corporate finance, risk management, and financial modeling Expect to Learn:How satellite data can improve financial forecastingWhy Monte Carlo simulation is useful for decision-makingPractical applications of spatial financeTips for building reliable financial modelsAdvice for developing your financial modeling skillsHere are a few quotes from the episode:"Most useful financial models should be forward-looking and based on current information." - Jorge Rojas"Build your model as automated as possible. It takes more time upfront, but it will save you time later." - Jorge RojasJorge Rojas shares practical insights on building stronger financial models by combining sound modeling principles with modern data sources and risk analysis techniques. Whether you're new to financial modeling or an experienced professional, this episode offers valuable lessons to help you make better-informed financial decisions. Follow Jorge:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorgerojasphdcfa/Company: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-4136-7995Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqWIn Today’s Episode:[00:00] – Trailer[03:08] – Financial Modeling Horror Story[04:35] – Why Jorge Enjoys Teaching[07:38] – CFA & AFM Certifications[12:18] – Introduction to Spatial Finance[17:01] – Satellite Data in Finance[25:41] – Monte Carlo Simulation[32:20] – Modeling Agricultural Risk[37:57] – Rapid Fire Questions[45:29] – Advice for Financial Modelers

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:Why private equity is driving demand for interim finance leadersWhat makes a strong interim FP&A and finance professionalWhy broad, cross-industry experience matters more than narrow expertiseHow interim leaders create value from day oneThe importance of clear scope and alignment in engagementsHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"Interim management isn’t about replacing people; it’s about supplementing leadership to create value faster and help teams reach their full potential." – Tim Stallkamp"The more experiences an individual has across industries and roles, the more effective they are in interim management. Breadth of expertise is key." – Tim StallkampTim 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

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper sit down with Ron Nachum, Founder of Sapien, an AI-native company building systems that understand and act on enterprise financial data. Ron shares how his team is redefining finance operations using AI agents that go beyond dashboards and chatbots to actively analyze, optimise, and recommend actions across business functions. Ron Nachum is the Founder of Sapien, an AI-native platform that helps companies run finance and operations through intelligent systems built on top of ERPs, spreadsheets, and enterprise data. With a background in applied AI research at Harvard, Ron focuses on building systems that turn fragmented financial data into real-time business decisions. In this episode, you will discover:How AI agents are reshaping finance and FP&A workflowsWhy companies need systems that understand their business contextHow Sapien automates reporting, analysis, and decision supportThe importance of guardrails, auditability, and financial structure in AI Ron shows how AI agents are moving finance beyond reporting into real-time decision-making. Sapien blends structure, data, and intelligence to turn complex systems into actionable insights.Follow Ron:Website: https://sapien.ai/newsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-nachum/Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today’s Episode: [02:35] – Why Ron left Harvard to build Sapien [05:15] – Founding story and early vision [07:46] – Building AI systems for finance [09:13] – From manual workflows to AI automation [10:03] – Evolution of AI agents in finance [11:29] – How AI is changing FP&A roles [12:45] – Guardrails and system design [13:56] – Financial intelligence in AI systems [16:19] – Opinionated vs. flexible AI systems [18:26] – Closing thoughts

In this episode of The Mod Squad, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male share their real experiences using AI in financial modeling. They discuss what works, what doesn’t, and how finance professionals can best use AI today. From testing different AI tools to running a “bake-off” on a real financial model, the conversation highlights the practical challenges, hallucinations, and creative approaches to working with AI in FP&A. Expect to LearnWhere AI actually adds value in modeling and finance workflowsWhy AI outputs still need careful checking and guidanceHow different AI tools compare when building real modelsWhy instructions, structure, and human oversight improve AI resultsHere are a few quotes from the episode:“Most companies don’t have AI governance yet, and that’s where real risk comes in.” - Ian Schnoor“Automation is great, but you still need to audit and understand every step.” - Giles Male AI is powerful, but it is not a shortcut to quality work. It still needs guidance, structure, and strong fundamentals. The people who benefit most are those who understand both the tools and the work behind them. For now, the best approach is simple: test it, guide it, and never trust it blindly. Follow Ian:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/Follow Giles:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/In today’s episode: [00:05] – Trailer[03:06] – AI Progress Update[05:00] – Mental Load & AI Pace[08:03] – Busting AI Hype[12:30] – Training & Business Demands[17:57] – AI “Eye of the Storm”[24:13] – Testing AI Models[30:52] – Fixing vs Building AI Models[35:15] – Challenging Misleading AI Claims[38:41] – Improving AI with Instructions[42:59] – Final Thoughts & Takeaways

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:How AI frees FP&A teams from manual workAutomating reports, spreadsheets, and workflowsTraining and empowering teams on AI toolsKey FP&A skills: business partnering, listening, and data understandingHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"Context is everything. Using AI to capture meeting insights and key assumptions helps teams make smarter, faster decisions." - Nicholas Moen"A strong FP&A professional understands both data structures and business partnering, skills that AI cannot replace." - Nicholas MoenNicholas 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/@runningfinanceEarn 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

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper sit down with Ron Nachum, Founder and CEO of Sapien, to discuss how AI agents are transforming financial operations and decision-making for companies. Ron shares how Sapien leverages AI to unify siloed financial data, automate workflows, and provide actionable insights, helping companies unlock millions of dollars in hidden value while enabling employees to focus on strategic work.Ron Nachum is the founder and CEO of Sapien, an AI-native platform that deploys agents to understand and act on messy, siloed data across ERPs, data warehouses, CRMs, and spreadsheets. Ron studied at Harvard, where he focused on computer science, statistics, and applied AI research. He has spent years building AI solutions for finance and operational processes, creating systems that help companies make better, faster decisions and optimize their operations.In this episode, you will discover:AI can unlock value from messy, siloed financial dataSapien’s platform automates reporting, forecasting, and operational decisionsHuman oversight and governance remain crucial for AI configurabilityTalent density and culture are key to scaling a young, fast-growing companyEarly entrepreneurial mindset shapes long-term innovationRon Nachum demonstrates how AI can revolutionize financial operations by turning siloed, messy data into actionable insights. Sapien’s platform empowers companies to automate reporting, optimize decisions, and free employees to focus on high-value work. Ron emphasizes that combining AI with governance, configurability, and a talented team creates systems that not only deliver immediate value but also scale strategically.Follow Ron:Website: https://sapien.ai/newsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-nachum/Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today’s Episode:[00:00] – Trailer[03:15] – Data-Rich, Analysis-Poor Challenge[06:21] – Harvard & the Leap to Sapien[11:32] – AI Agents in Finance[17:01] – Balancing AI Flexibility & Guardrails[23:19] – Efficient & Secure Data Handling[26:34] – Making Insights Accessible to All Teams[30:45] – Configurability, Forecasting & Learning[38:22] – Real-World Impact & Optimizations[40:25] – Leading Young Teams with Experienced Advisor[46:11] – Early Entrepreneurial Ventures[49:13] – Closing Thoughts & Thanks

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, Paul Barnhurst talks with John Yeldham, founder of Lodeum, about building trust in Excel models, standardizing modeling language, and creating modular, scalable models. John shares his experience leading financial modelers and using advanced Excel features like Lambda functions and dynamic arrays. Expect to Learn:Standardize language to improve clarity and collaborationUse modular blocks to make models understandable and trustedLeverage advanced Excel functions carefully for scalable, auditable modelsOnline training through Lodeum allows flexible global learningHere are a few quotes from the episode:"If standards could be introduced for language, it allows financial modeling knowledge to be shared and scaled beyond individual experts." - John Yeldham"The role of a modeler is evolving from just churning out numbers to creating reusable, understandable modules." - John YeldhamJohn provides actionable strategies for financial modelers to improve clarity, scalability, and trust in their work while leveraging advanced Excel techniques and modular design principles. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their modeling skills and build reusable frameworks for complex financial analyses. Follow John:Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lodeum/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnyeldham/Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqWIn Today’s Episode:[02:14] – Worst Model Horror Story[04:09] – Communication & Language Challenges[11:55] – Standardizing Language & AI Integration[14:43] – Online Training & Lodeum Platform[24:25] – Lambda Functions & Dynamic Arrays[39:42] – Rapid Fire Opinions[16:32] – Advice for Becoming a Better Modeler[18:07] – How to Connect

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:What great FP&A looks like and the importance of business acumenHow to develop strong partnerships between FP&A and accountingStrategies for building high-performing, empowered finance teamsNavigating systems, processes, and technology challenges in FP&AHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"It starts with being connected to the business, having strong acumen, and being consulted by stakeholders." – Robert Blanding"Investing in relationships outside of crisis is critical to getting support from accounting and operations." – Robert BlandingRobert 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

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:How AI is changing the future of FP&APractical ways to automate reporting and recurring finance tasksThe difference between Claude Chat, Claude Code, and AI agentsWhy finance professionals should think of AI as a digital teammateKey skills FP&A professionals need in an AI-driven worldHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"Every forecast, variance analysis, or deck you build should help somebody make a different decision." – David Dors"If nothing changed from the analysis you're providing, there's not much value in what you're doing every day." – David DorsDavid 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

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper sit down with Dave Trier, CEO of ModelOp, to explore the challenges and opportunities of implementing AI at scale in enterprises. Dave shares how organizations can manage AI responsibly, measure ROI, and move from scattered pilots to a disciplined, industrialized approach. He also discusses the critical role of CFOs in AI oversight, change management, and creating measurable business value from AI initiatives Dave Trier is CEO of ModelOp, leading the company with a focus on customer value, product innovation, and enterprise execution. With over 20 years of experience across AI, data science, analytics, cloud, and enterprise software, Dave is a patent-holder and trusted partner to CIOs, CTOs, and AI leaders. Prior to becoming CEO, he shaped ModelOp’s product strategy and held senior roles at Think Big Analytics, Powered by Action, and Accenture Technology Labs. He holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame. In this episode, you will discover:How to industrialize AI delivery across an enterpriseManaging risk, governance, and compliance for AI implementationsMeasuring AI ROI using financial, feedback, and usage metricsThe CFO’s role in AI oversight and rationalizing AI investmentsKey lessons for change management and process discipline in AI adoptionDave Trier highlights how enterprises can move from scattered AI pilots to a disciplined, industrialized approach that delivers measurable business value. He emphasizes the importance of governance, change management, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure AI initiatives succeed. CFOs play a key role in oversight, setting financial parameters, and rationalizing AI investments. Follow Dave:Website: https://www.modelop.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidetrier/Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today’s Episode:[00:00] – Trailer[02:07] – Meet Dave Trier, CEO of ModelOp[04:57] – ModelOp & AI Governance Explained[06:21] – AI vs Data Governance[08:11] – Evaluating AI ROI for CFOs[13:24] – AI as a Managed Investment Portfolio[16:43] – Change Management & Process Discipline[20:48] – CFO’s Role in AI Oversight[27:38] – Tips to Maximize AI ROI[30:16] – Enterprise AI Complexity & Coordination[32:13] – Dave’s Journey: Electrical Engineer to AI CEO[35:12] – Closing Thoughts

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:How FP&A functions in an unconventional sports and entertainment organizationBudgeting and financial planning across multiple teams and eventsManaging risk, contracts, and operational logistics for traveling eventsLessons on aligning finance with organizational growth and fan engagementHow innovative business models and creativity intersect with FP&AHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:“Finance isn’t a stumbling block, it’s a support function that ensures internal teams can succeed.” – Dr. Tim Naddy“You don’t need to be from an area to support a team, you just need to feel the vibe.” – Dr. Tim NaddyDr. 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

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper sit down with Scott Leshinski, President of OneStream Software, to discuss the company’s recent acquisition by Hg Capital. Scott explains how OneStream’s unified platform is transforming finance workflows, the role of AI in enterprise finance, and how finance teams are learning to trust and use these advanced tools.Scott Leshinski is the President of OneStream Software, with experience in corporate finance at GE Capital, co-founding Bluestone International, and leading finance technology transformations at Huron Consulting Group. He joined OneStream in 2021 and was promoted to President in 2023 after driving strong growth in AI initiatives.In this episode, you will discover:The impact of OneStream going private under Hg CapitalHow unified platforms improve financial planning and reportingAI and machine learning are enhancing forecast accuracy and efficiencyImportance of transparency, traceability, and trust in AI outputsScott Leshinski highlights the exciting future of finance, where unified platforms and automation are transforming how businesses manage financial workflows. He emphasizes the growing role of technology in making finance processes more efficient and discusses how OneStream is helping companies become more agile.Follow Scott:Website: https://www.onestream.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-leshinski-bb5736b/Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today’s Episode:[00:23] – Guest Intro[01:32] – Acquisition & AI-First Strategy[03:57] – Long-Term Growth Opportunities[05:18] – Scott’s Career Journey[08:38] – Need for Unified Platform[10:13] – OneStream Overview[13:29] – Practical Enterprise Impact[17:11] – Unified Platform for AI[21:01] – Agentic AI & High Accuracy

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:How AI is transforming financial reporting and analysis in FP&A.The role of business partnering in aligning FP&A with strategic decisions.Derek's transition from spreadsheets to AI-driven financial models.How FP&A evolves as companies scale.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:“Spreadsheets are great for MVP models, but AI and data warehouses are the future for repeatable, scalable analysis.” – Derek Baker“AI can manage context better than prompts, and this is what drives its power in finance.” – Derek BakerDerek 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

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper speak with Ali Hussain, CEO and co-founder of Tabs, an AI-powered platform revolutionizing finance workflows. Ali discusses the limitations of legacy finance systems, the challenges of modern revenue models, and how AI is automating the full contract-to-cash cycle for finance teams.Ali Hussain is the CEO and co-founder of Tabs, where he leads the development of AI-native solutions designed to automate the billing, collections, and revenue recognition process. With a background spanning product leadership at Google, strategy consulting at BCG, and public policy, Ali is at the forefront of the next wave of finance technology.In this episode, you will discover:How automation is transforming the finance sector, particularly revenue managementThe importance of structured data for effective financial solutionsWhy traditional finance systems struggle with modern revenue modelsHow Tabs is automating billing, collections, and revenue recognitionThis episode provides insights into how automation is reshaping finance, helping businesses manage revenue models and streamline financial tasks. Ali Hussain shares his perspective on simplifying finance workflows and the direction the industry is heading. Follow Ali:Website: https://www.tabs.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-hussain786/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tabsplatform Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today’s Episode:[02:00] – Ali's Background and Tabs' Growth[03:00] – Automation in Finance[05:00] – Agents in Finance Workflows[08:00] – Data Quality in Finance[10:00] – Limitations of LLMs in Finance[12:00] – Agents vs Automation[15:00] – The Future of Finance[17:00] – Managing Usage-Based Pricing[21:00] – Closing Thoughts

FP&A & AI Software Showcase: Explore Leading ToolsFP&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-showcaseIn 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:Why storytelling is essential for influencing decisions in finance and business.The impact of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership communication.How AI can enhance storytelling without losing its human touch.Practical tips for finance professionals on how to use stories in presentations.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:“Storytelling is not about manipulation, it’s about authentic communication.” – Gabrielle Dolan“AI can be your creative partner, but don’t lose your voice when telling your story.” – Gabrielle DolanGabrielle 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

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper sit down with Scott Leshinski, President of OneStream Software, to discuss OneStream's recent acquisition by Hg Capital and the exciting changes it brings to the company’s approach to finance technology. Scott shares how OneStream’s focus on a unified platform is reshaping the finance space, and how integrating smart technology into financial workflows is making a real difference for businesses today.Scott Leshinski is the President of OneStream Software, where he leads OneStream’s growth and innovation. With a background in corporate finance at GE Capital, co-founding Bluestone International, and working at Huron Consulting Group, Scott has a wealth of experience in driving major tech transformations. He joined OneStream in 2021 and was promoted to President in 2023 after helping the company achieve impressive growth.In this episode, you will discover:What OneStream's acquisition by Hg Capital means for its futureThe benefits of using a unified platform in financeHow automation is improving financial processesThe evolving role of automation in financial planning and decision-makingHow OneStream’s tools are helping businesses become more agile and efficientScott Leshinski highlights the exciting future of finance, where unified platforms and automation are transforming how businesses manage financial workflows. He emphasizes the growing role of technology in making finance processes more efficient and discusses how OneStream is helping companies become more agile.Follow Scott:Website: https://www.onestream.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-leshinski-bb5736b/Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today’s Episode:[00:00] – Intro[03:00] – OneStream's Acquisition Impact[05:00] – Transition from Public to Private[06:00] – Scott's Career Path[10:00] – What OneStream Does[14:00] – The Power of Unified Platforms[18:00] – Automation in Financial Planning[19:00] – The Rise of Automation[26:00] – Building Trust in Automation[29:00] – Improving Forecast Accuracy[35:00] – The Future of Finance[50:00] – Fun Questions with Scott[55:00] – Closing Thoughts

Paul Barnhurst speaks with Matan Feldman, Founder and CEO of Wall Street Prep. Matan shares insights from his career in investment banking and financial modeling, discussing the future of AI in the industry, its impact on investment banking roles, and how it will reshape financial modeling education. He also reflects on his journey founding Wall Street Prep and the lessons he's learned along the way.Matan Feldman is the Founder and CEO of Wall Street Prep, where he leads business development, course creation, and training programs for clients such as Morgan Stanley, J.P. Morgan, The Wharton School, and many others. Before founding Wall Street Prep, Matan worked at Chase Manhattan Bank and J.P.Morgan in investment banking and equity research.Expect to LearnHow AI is transforming financial modeling and investment banking workflows.The evolving role of financial modelers in an AI-driven world.How AI accelerates repetitive tasks, enabling analysts to focus on higher-level judgment.Why foundational financial modeling skills remain crucial despite AI advancements. Here are a few quotes from the episode:"A model can either be the most powerful tool or the most frustrating one." – Matan Feldman"Judgment and interpretation will always remain important." – Matan FeldmanMatan Feldman shared valuable insights into the evolving role of AI in financial modeling and investment banking. He emphasized the growing importance of business judgment and foundational skills as AI tools continue to reshape the industry. Matan's journey from investment banking to founding Wall Street Prep highlights the ongoing need for both technical expertise and strategic thinking in financial modeling Follow Matan:Website: https://www.wallstreetprep.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matanfeldman/Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast”Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [00:00] – Introduction[02:27] – Matan’s Modeling Nightmare[05:07] – The Journey of Wall Street Prep[08:21] – AI in Investment Banking[14:06] – The Future of Modeling and Automation[22:16] – Opportunities and Concerns in AI[29:48] – AI’s Role in Teaching Financial Modeling[36:02] – Rapid Fire Questions

FP&A & AI Software Showcase: Explore Leading ToolsFP&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-showcaseIn 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:The challenges and complexities of modern financial modellingHow Kaleidoscope is helping businesses move beyond spreadsheetsMichael's journey from IBM to Anaplan and now KaleidoscopeThe importance of understanding business processes in financial modellingHow AI is impacting the financial modeling landscapeHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:“The key to financial modeling is representing the complexity of a business without over-simplifying it.” – Michael Gould“AI is a powerful tool, but it’s the data context that drives the real value.” – Michael GouldGlenn 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=interviewEarn 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

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper speak with Ali Hussain, CEO and co-founder of Tabs, an AI-powered platform revolutionizing the revenue process for finance teams. Ali discusses how the traditional ERP systems have left revenue management behind, and how Tabs is changing the game by automating the full contract-to-cash cycle. He shares his insights on the complexity of revenue management, AI’s role in financial systems, and why understanding the data context is key to success in AI-powered finance tools.Ali Hussain is the CEO and co-founder of Tabs, where he leads the development of AI-native solutions designed to automate the billing, collections, and revenue recognition process. With a background spanning product leadership at Google, strategy consulting at BCG, and public policy, Ali is at the forefront of the next wave of finance technology.In this episode, you will discover:How AI is transforming revenue management in financeThe importance of data context in AI-powered toolsWhy traditional finance systems fail to address modern revenue modelsHow Tabs automates billing, collections, and revenue recognitionAli Hussain shared invaluable insights into the future of finance, highlighting how AI is revolutionizing revenue management and financial operations. While AI brings immense potential for automation, human judgment remains crucial in making strategic decisions. Follow Ali:Website: https://www.tabs.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-hussain786/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tabsplatform Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today’s Episode:[00:00] – Trailer[03:00] – Legacy Finance Systems[06:15] – Revenue Management Gaps[09:00] – How Tabs Transforms Finance[12:00] – AI in Billing & Rev Rec[15:30] – Clean Data Importance[19:00] – AI vs Human Judgment[22:30] – The Future of AI[25:00] – Complex Revenue Models[29:00] – AI Challenges in Finance[34:00] – Closing Thoughts on AI

FP&A & AI Software Showcase: Explore Leading ToolsFP&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-showcaseIn 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 successExpect to Learn:Why networking is the most effective way to find opportunitiesHow to stand out in a competitive job marketThe shift of FP&A from reporting to strategic partnershipWhy understanding business drivers is critical in FP&AHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"If you can't figure out how to get other people to move with you, your career is not going to go anywhere." — Glenn Snyder“Leadership isn’t about telling people what to do, it’s about getting them to follow you.” – Glenn SnyderGlenn 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.comEarn 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

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper talk with David Ingraham, founder and CEO of HyperPerfect. David explains why AI works best in finance when it is used step by step, with clear context and human review. He also shares why Excel is still central to finance work and how better AI tools can help teams move faster without losing control.David Ingraham is the CEO and founder of HyperPerfect, a financial reporting and accounting platform that integrates powerful AI directly into Excel. With nearly 20 years of experience in private equity, David has worked on deals totaling over $1.5 billion. He is also passionate about educational initiatives, serving as board president of Aim High, a Bay Area nonprofit that provides free summer education to nearly 2,000 students annually.In this episode, you will discover:Why finance teams are still slow to adopt AIWhy context matters when using AI in ExcelWhy AI should be treated like a teammate, not a shortcutHow breaking work into smaller steps leads to better resultsWhere AI helps most in finance todayDavid Ingraham is the founder and CEO of HyperPerfect, a company that brings AI tools into Excel. He spent nearly 20 years in private equity and has worked on deals worth more than $1 billion. He also serves as board president of Aim High, a Bay Area nonprofit that provides free summer education to students.Follow David:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dsingraham/Website: https://www.hyperperfect.comFollow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today’s Episode:[00:22] - David’s background[02:49] - What HyperPerfect does[06:01] - Why finance struggles with AI[07:36] - Why context matters[12:23] - What AI agents are good at today[13:08] - Using AI as a partner[17:51] - Building models step by step[19:20] - Productivity gains and closing thoughts

In this episode of The Mod Squad, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male share their real experiences using AI in financial modelling. They cut through the hype and discuss what AI actually does well, where it still struggles, and how professionals should be thinking about using it today. From building models to handling workflows, the conversation highlights both the value and the limitations of AI tools in real work. Expect to LearnWhere AI actually helps in finance and modelling workWhy most “one-click solution” claims are unrealisticThe importance of checking and guiding AI outputsHow instructions and structure improve AI resultsHere are a few quotes from the episode:“It’s not a one-click solution. You still have to check everything.” – Giles Male“You will have to understand every line to guide AI properly.” – Ian SchnoorAI is powerful, but it’s not a shortcut to good work. It still needs guidance, structure, and strong fundamentals. The people who benefit most will be the ones who understand both the tools and the work behind them. For now, the best approach is simple: use it, test it, and don’t trust it blindly. Follow Ian:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/Follow Giles:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/In today’s episode: [02:06] – Current thoughts on AI after recent progress[03:45] – Daily use of AI and time savings[05:00] – Mental fatigue and keeping up with AI changes[08:03] – Calling out AI hype and unrealistic claims[12:30] – AI training challenges and business demand[17:57] – “Eye of the storm” phase of AI development[24:13] – Testing AI-built financial models[30:52] – Why fixing AI models can take longer than building from scratch[35:15] – Responsibility to challenge misleading AI claims[38:41] – Using instructions to improve AI output[42:59] – Final thoughts on AI, stress, and the future