The Diary of a CFO

He dropped out of high school. He was a single father. He started his career at a cottonseed company. Now he oversees $3 billion in annual revenue across 76 offices in 45 countries as the Global CFO of Baker McKenzie, one of the largest law firms in the world.In this episode, I sit down with William Washington III. William brings a rare combination of financial acumen and operational expertise shaped by senior roles at Hogan Lovells, Accenture, and Fannie Mae. He is a certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt and a Bloomberg New Voice on the future of finance.We get into what it actually looks like to lead finance across 45 countries and how he adapted his communication style for teams that speak different languages and operate in different cultures. How he evaluates a finance organization when he walks in on day one. The executive coaching session where a 360 review showed him something about his leadership he did not want to see. Why the drive that made him a great director was the same thing holding him back from becoming CFO. How he leads as a self-described introvert, including how he sets boundaries to recharge. Why he went back to school for a Master's in Law Firm Management just to understand his industry. And his philosophy on the three books every finance professional should always be reading.Whether you are a finance leader trying to grow into the CFO seat, already in it and figuring out how to lead at scale, or building resilience through a chapter that feels impossible, this conversation will meet you where you are.

Most finance teams spend two weeks building a board report that gets reviewed in ten minutes. The formatting alone could take days. And if one number changes, the entire approval cycle restarts.In this episode, I sit down with Fabian Ferrada, Senior Solutions Engineer at Insight Software. Before moving to tech, Fabian spent over a decade in financial and operational leadership for a publicly traded company, carrying P&L responsibility on major projects across South America and the Middle East.We break down what a great board presentation actually looks like versus what most teams are delivering. Why three out of four manual disclosure processes contain at least one number appearing differently across documents. The real cost of broken reporting, and it is not just overtime. How to present bad news to a board and keep their trust. The difference between board reporting and investor reporting and why most manual processes can barely handle one. And a real case study where a company with 12 subsidiaries across 6 countries cut their disclosure process from weeks to days.If your team dreads reporting season or your board deserves better than what you are currently delivering, this episode will show you what the fix actually looks like.Brought to you by insightsoftware's Certent Disclosure Management (CDM). Visit insightsoftware.com/board-reporting to learn more.

Most finance teams stay on Excel longer than they should. The hard part is knowing when it is actually time to switch.In this episode, I sit down with Paul Barnhurst, also known as The FP&A Guy. Paul has trained thousands of finance professionals, hosts three podcasts including FP&A Unlocked, and has tested almost every major FP&A tool on the market. He is known for his clear, independent reviews and helping finance teams make smarter choices about the tools they use.We break down when Excel stops being enough and how to know it is time to move to a real FP&A tool. The biggest mistakes companies make when buying FP&A software, including the implementation traps that quietly kill projects. How to spot red flags in software demos and what to ask before signing anything. Where AI actually fits into the modern finance team and where it is just hype. What Paul found when his team tested Claude on real financial modeling cases. The difference between deterministic and generative AI and why finance leaders need to understand it. How FP&A teams will look different in the next few years. And the one soft skill Paul says is now more important than the technical ones.If you lead a finance team or you are an FP&A professional trying to figure out when to upgrade your tools and how to actually use AI, this episode is the honest map you have been looking for.5UJlgIdbfhXeqC0FgeBJ

Most founders make the same fundraising mistakes and do not realize it until the cash is gone.In this episode, I sit down with Julianne Averill, a healthcare AI CFO, board director, and fractional CFO with over 20 years of experience helping life science and digital health companies scale through fundraising, M&A, and IPOs. She has been through over 50 transactions on both the buy and sell side and currently serves as a fractional CFO working with multiple founders.We break down how startup funding actually works from Seed all the way to IPO. What investors are really looking for at each stage. The difference between debt and equity and why getting that wrong can be one of the most expensive decisions a founder makes. The 9 mistakes she sees founders make during fundraising that kill deals before they start. What actually happens when a company goes public and why it is not the finish line most people think it is. How AI is changing the way investors discover and evaluate companies. And the ideal finance team structure as a company scales.Whether you are raising capital, sitting on a board, or leading finance at a growing company, this episode covers the full picture.FREE DOWNLOAD: Julianne shared her sample pitch decks during the conversation. Grab both here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1GlZiV70W4zIulXhFgf1Z9TtkeLyyzR7r

In this episode of The Diary of a CFO Podcast, host Wassia Kamon sits down with Jennifer Warawa, President of insightsoftware and a seven-time honoree as one of the top 25 most powerful women in accounting, to explore what CFOs must fix before implementing AI.Drawing on over 25 years of experience at the intersection of finance, technology, and leadership, Jennifer shares :Why systems and talent have not kept pace with the evolution of the CFO role,How AI amplifies what already exists rather than fixing broken foundations, What a successful AI implementation looks like and how to bring excited and skeptical team members along----------This episode is brought to you by insightsoftware. With Spreadsheet Server, you can spot trends in your data before they become problems and make faster, smarter decisions. Visit insightsoftware.com/reporting to see how it works.---------👉 If becoming a CFO is in your 5-year plan, get your free CFO Readiness Scorecard here:http://thecfo.scoreapp.com📬 Get InvolvedHave a question or topic suggestion?Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Diary of a CFO Podcast, host Wassia Kamon sits down with Dave DeFreitas, retired group CFO of Caterpillar Inc., to explore the unconventional career path that took him from staff accountant to the C-suite.Drawing on over 30 years of experience leading finance teams at one of the world's largest manufacturing companies, Dave shares why he had seven different jobs in his first six years before getting his first promotion, and how those lateral moves built the foundation for executive-level thinking. The conversation also explores:The situational leadership framework that allows leaders to adapt their approach based on where each team member is in their development, Why understanding how a company works matters more than functional expertise,The critical difference between managing change and leading improvements.This episode is for CFOs, aspiring CFOs, and senior finance leaders who want a realistic roadmap to the C-suite and the leadership skills that matter most once you get there.Key Timestamps01:19 Three things that made the difference to group CFO03:25 The power of lateral moves in career progression12:06 Situational leadership framework explained15:41 Leading a team where most direct reports are older than you24:04 The difference between managers and leaders28:16 Value stream mapping and process optimization42:09 How university curriculum needs to evolve for AI47:37 What finance professionals must do to adapt to AILearn more about the podcast at https://www.thediaryofacfo.comExplore the CFO Readiness Scorecard at https://thecfo.scoreapp.com👉 If becoming a CFO is in your 5-year plan, get your free CFO Readiness Scorecard here:http://thecfo.scoreapp.com

In this episode of The Diary of a CFO Podcast, host Wassia Kamon sits down with Tariq Munir, digital transformation advisor and author of Reimagine Finance, to explore what it actually takes to build an AI-ready finance team.Tariq shares why the biggest barriers to AI adoption are behavioral, not technological. He explains how to identify whether a team is truly data-driven, why streamlining workflows must come before automation, and how CFOs can create a culture of thoughtful experimentation without compromising accuracy or compliance. They also discuss the emerging skills finance leaders need, including change management, emotional intelligence, and responsible AI governance.This episode offers clarity for CFOs and senior finance leaders navigating transformation, complexity, and the evolving expectations of the role.Key TakeawaysAI Readiness Starts with Trust in DataProcess Optimization Comes FirstExperimentation Requires BoundariesGrowing a Digital Mindset Across Teams is EssentialKey Timestamps00:00:00 Welcome01:22:00 The one litmus test that shows if your team is AI-ready04:07:00 What broken workflows look like and why AI makes them worse09:03:00 Earning the right to experiment in finance13:00:00 Why most AI projects fail to deliver value20:06:00 How to build a digital mindset across your team24:14:00 The skills future CFOs need to develop now25:40:00 Why CFOs are positioned to lead responsible and ethical AI👉 If becoming a CFO is in your 5-year plan, get your free CFO Readiness Scorecard here:http://thecfo.scoreapp.com📬 Get InvolvedHave a question or topic suggestion?Email: [email protected]: https://www.thediaryofacfo.com🔗 Connect with Guest Tariq Munir:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tariq-munir/🔗 Connect with Host Wassia Kamon onLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/

Stepping into your first CFO role can feel overwhelming. In this episode, former divisional CFO and GrowCFO Mentor Kevin Appleby shares what really changes when you move from finance leader to CFO.Drawing on years of experience working with finance leaders across industries, Kevin shares why many CFOs feel unprepared when they step into the role and how the real work begins after the reporting is done. The conversation examines how CFOs add value through judgment, questioning, and forward-looking insight, especially when the path forward is unclear.This episode is for CFOs, aspiring CFOs, and senior finance leaders who want clarity on what actually matters in the seat and how to grow into the role without trying to be everything to everyone.Key Timestamps00:02 Intro02:18 What separates good finance teams from great ones05:48 Asking better questions to drive real insight09:28 Developing business partnering skills through responsibility12:42 Why CFOs must shift from backward-looking to forward-looking work18:34 Imposter syndrome and confidence in new CFOs24:56 Choosing which CFO skills matter most37:56 The importance of FP&A and delivering bad news early41:14 Why risk management sits with the CFO44:22 What new CFOs should focus on in their first 90 daysLearn more about the podcast at https://www.thediaryofacfo.comIf becoming a CFO is in your 5-year plan, get your free CFO Readiness Scorecard here: http://thecfo.scoreapp.comGet Involved Have a question or topic suggestion? Email: [email protected] with Guest Kevin Appleby: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinappleby/Connect with Host Wassia Kamon onLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wassiakamon/Connect with The Diary of a CFO Podcast onLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-diary-of-a-cfo-podcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thediaryofacfopodcast/featuredWebsite: https://www.thediaryofacfo.comX (Twitter): https://x.com/thediaryofacfo

In this solo episode, Wassia Kamon shares how she went from staff accountant to CFO in 15 years, including the moments that didn’t look like progress at all.She talks about:Moments in her career that didn’t look like “progress” from the outside.Rethinking the value of credentials like the CPA, CMA, and MBA.Learning to lead under pressure and make decisions with incomplete information.What it was really like to grow her career while raising young kids.Promotions that looked impressive from the outside but were emotionally hard, including times when she had to support layoffs from the finance side.If you’re in accounting or finance and you feel like you’re doing everything “right” but still not moving fast enough, this episode will give you a practical sense of what to focus on next.Resources mentioned:👉 If becoming a CFO is in your 5-year plan, get your free CFO Readiness Scorecard here: http://thecfo.scoreapp.comHave a question or topic suggestion?Email: [email protected]🔗 Connect with Host Wassia Kamon onLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/

In this episode of The Diary of a CFO Podcast, host Wassia Kamon sits down with Teri Kozub, a three-time CFO with more than 33 years of experience in nonprofit finance and current CFO at Community Legal Services of Mid Florida.Teri shares how her non-linear career shaped her leadership style, why nonprofit finance is far more complex than many assume, and how CFOs can lead effectively through uncertainty, risk, and mission-driven pressure.Expect to LearnWhy the CFO role extends far beyond numbers and reportingHow nonprofit CFOs navigate uncertainty and funding volatilityWhat trust and communication look like when leading outside your expertiseKey Timestamps00:00:00 Introduction and career journey03:18:00 Why nonprofit finance is not easier09:03:00 Trust, communication, and leadership18:47:00 Community and executive isolation20:45:00 Endowments and long-term legacyLearn more about the podcast at https://www.thediaryofacfo.comExplore the CFO Readiness Scorecard at https://thecfo.scoreapp.com👉 If becoming a CFO is in your 5-year plan, get your free CFO Readiness Scorecard here: http://thecfo.scoreapp.com📬 Get InvolvedHave a question or topic suggestion?Email: [email protected]🔗 Connect with Guest Teri Kozub:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-kozub-81058a12/🔗 Connect with Host Wassia Kamon onLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wassiakamon/🔗 Connect with The Diary of a CFO Podcast onLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-diary-of-a-cfo-podcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thediaryofacfopodcast/featuredWebsite:https://www.thediaryofacfo.comX

Executive presence is often cited as the reason leaders don’t get promoted, but rarely explained.In this episode of The Diary of a CFO, Wassia Kamon sits down with executive coach Jill Avey to unpack what executive presence actually means, why high performers get stuck at the Director or VP level, and how promotions really happen at senior levels.00:00:00 – Welcome back!01:16:00 – What is executive presence? Jill’s model for understanding and building it07:50:00 – The challenges women face in leadership roles and how to overcome them10:35:00 – How to balance confidence with warmth and authenticity in leadership13:25:00 – Preparing for high-stakes meetings: Strategies for executive success15:36:00 – The power of listening and how it enhances your leadership presence23:10:00 – Key obstacles keeping leaders stuck at the director level and how to break through32:07:00 – How visibility, communication, and executive presence can advance your careerThis conversation explores:What executive presence is and what it’s notWhy hard work and strong performance reviews aren’t enoughThe role of visibility, trust, and strategic perspectiveHow leaders can show confidence without losing authenticityCommon leadership traps that affect both men and women------Subscribe to the Finance Executive Track newsletter for actionable insights to become the obvious choice for top finance roles and thrive once you get therehttps://the-finance-executive-track.kit.com/signupDon't forget to download the free guide on AI prompts every finance leader needs:https://www.wassiakamon.com/prompts

Attorney and risk-management expert Natalia Greene reveals the real stories behind major fraud cases, including those featured on American Greed that she personally worked on.She also shares exactly how accountants, fractional CFOs, and boutique finance firms accidentally expose themselves to lawsuits, even when they’ve done nothing wrong.We cover: The wildest embezzlement schemes she’s seen in 20+ years of litigation Why accountants often get blamed first when fraud is uncovered The engagement letter mistakes that put firms at massive risk How scope creep silently increases your legal exposure The insurance policy every fractional CFO or firm owner needs (but few ever buy) The documentation habits that can make or break you in court Why client acceptance and annual reevaluation may be your best risk-prevention toolWhether you run an accounting firm, work as a fractional CFO, or simply want to protect your professional services business, this episode is packed with hard-won insights you won’t find in any textbook.------Subscribe to the Finance Executive Track newsletter for actionable insights to become the obvious choice for top finance roles and thrive once you get therehttps://the-finance-executive-track.kit.com/signupDon't forget to download the free guide on AI prompts every finance leader needs:https://www.wassiakamon.com/prompts

In this episode of The Diary of a CFO, executive recruiter Mark Johnson shares insider perspectives on what CEOs are really looking for in today's CFOs. Discover how the expectations of finance leadership are evolving, what separates top candidates in interviews, and the essential qualities that define success in the modern C-suite. Whether you’re an aspiring finance leader or a seasoned executive, you’ll gain actionable advice to stand out and thrive at the top.Expect to LearnBeyond the Resume: Why today’s CFOs must stand out with emotional intelligence, resilience, and trust, not just credentialsAI vs. Human Connection: How automation is reshaping hiring, and why relationships still make the differenceInterview Strategy: Why performance alone isn’t enough, and how to truly impress in high-stakes executive interviewsPath to CFO: What it really takes to land your first CFO seat, including mentorship, visibility, and cross-functional experienceThe Four Intelligence Pillars: How IQ, EQ, SQ, and AQ together define the next generation of finance leadershipIf becoming a CFO is part of your goals, get your CFO readiness score here: https://thecfo.scoreapp.com/Don't forget to download the free guide on AI prompts every finance leader needs:https://www.wassiakamon.com/prompts

Note:This episode is a pod swap from FP&A Unlocked. 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 Paul Barnhurst.Note: This episode is a pod swap from FP&A Unlocked. 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 Paul Barnhurst.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:The three pillars of great FP&A: technical skills, storytelling, and actionable decisions.Why Andrew advocates for changing FP&A to “FA&P” and focusing more on analytics.Lessons learned from leading finance during the pandemic.Key metrics for success in the distribution industry, including variable margin and truck utilization.Practical advice for accelerating budget processes and focusing on analytics that drive results.🔗 Connect with Guest Andrew HullLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewhull4/ UNFI Canada: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unfi/ 🔗 Connect with Host Paul onWebsite: https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefpandaguy

Join Vivienne Wei, COO of Unified Agent Force Platform at Salesforce and a leading thinker in financial technology, as she shares her journey from Wall Street to orchestrating enterprise-wide AI transformations.In this episode, Vivienne breaks down the realities and myths of AI in the finance function, from predictive models to generative AI, and reveals how agentic AI is creating a new category of digital workers, “AI agents,” that drive both productivity and resilience in modern businesses.You'll also learn the essentials of upskilling for an AI-augmented workforce, the leadership behaviors needed to foster adoption, and actionable strategies for CFOs to harness AI for operational and strategic advantage.Whether you're a finance leader, tech executive, or simply curious about the future of work, discover practical lessons and frameworks to drive innovation and business value in the AI era.If becoming a CFO is part of your goals, get your CFO readiness score here: https://thecfo.scoreapp.com/Don't forget to download the free guide on AI prompts every finance leader needs:https://www.wassiakamon.com/prompts

What does it take to turn a traditional finance team into a true strategic business partner?In this episode, Paul Young, CFO of Liberty Bank, shares how he connected strategy, budgeting, and talent development to create a finance function built for impact.Paul brings over 25 years of experience leading finance, strategy, business transformation, and digital innovation across major institutions such as Citizens Bank, TD Bank, CIT, and Siemens Financial Services.If you’ve ever felt stuck between strategy and execution, this one’s for you.We talked about:How starting strategy early makes budgeting faster and easierWhy CFOs should own project management and transformationWhat it really takes to attract and keep top finance talentHow he created a Business Transformation Office within the office of the CFO that helped Liberty Bank cut mortgage closing time in half and become a leader in their space.This conversation is a masterclass in modern CFO leadership.If becoming a CFO is part of your goals, get your CFO readiness score here: https://thecfo.scoreapp.com/Don't forget to download the free guide on AI prompts every finance leader needs:https://www.wassiakamon.com/prompts

CFOs are expected to drive transformation, lead strategy, and still deliver flawless numbers every month. In this episode of The Diary of a CFO, I sit down with Tom Hood, one of the most influential voices in finance leadership, to unpack what’s really behind the growing pressure on today’s CFOs.We talk about:✅ How the CFO role has evolved from finance expert to strategic co-pilot✅ Why upskilling and reskilling are the new competitive edge✅ How to balance performance with transformation✅ The real impact of AI and automation on finance teamsIf you’ve ever felt like you’re doing 5 jobs at once as a CFO, this episode is for you.Other resources mentioned in this episode: Upskilling & Reskilling Resources - Business Learning Institute (BLI)https://blionline.org Business Resilience Toolkit https://www.aicpa-cima.com/advocacy/download/business-resilience-toolkitF.A.M.E. Finance Assessment Model for Effectivenesshttps://blionline.org/finance-assessment-model-for-effectiveness

Brought to you by insightsoftware. Register for our upcoming webinar:https://insightsoftware.com/resources/get-out-of-the-reporting-rut-how-finance-leaders-drive-strategic-impact/In this episode of The Diary of a CFO, I sit down with Anna Sagan, Senior Principal Solutions Engineer, who brings over two decades of experience in financial software and strategic reporting.We talked about:The evolving expectations from finance teamsWhy Excel is still the most loved BI tool in financeReporting limitations in ERPsWhy companies underutilize the tools they pay forWhether you're a controller frustrated by ERP reports or a CFO aiming to future-proof your reporting stack, this episode delivers sharp insights and real-world advice.If becoming a CFO is part of your goals, get your CFO readiness score here: https://thecfo.scoreapp.com/

Brought to you by insightsoftware. Register for our upcoming webinar:https://insightsoftware.com/resources/get-out-of-the-reporting-rut-how-finance-leaders-drive-strategic-impact/What does it take to lead finance through real estate booms, construction slowdowns, and global crises?In this episode of The Diary of a CFO Podcast, I sit down with Bona Allen, a CFO with three decades of experience across real estate development, construction, and investment. Bona has led finance at both public and private companies, navigated the savings and loan crisis, the 2008 crash, and COVID, and built strategies that kept projects and people moving through uncertainty.We talk about:How the CFO role has changed Real estate vs construction financeSpotting business cyclesCrisis leadership Building and keeping strong teamsBona also shares the career moves that shaped him, the mistakes that made him better, and why networking to help others is the best long-term strategy.If you’re in real estate, construction, or any cyclical industry, this conversation is full of lessons you can use to prepare, adapt, and lead.If becoming a CFO is part of your goals, get your CFO readiness score here: https://thecfo.scoreapp.com/

Not every CFO starts as a controller or FP&A lead. Axel Talout shares how banking and private equity shaped his journey, why your “different” background can be your edge, and how to intentionally build a team that fills your blind spots.Brought to you by insightsoftware. Register for our upcoming webinar:https://insightsoftware.com/resources/get-out-of-the-reporting-rut-how-finance-leaders-drive-strategic-impact/If becoming a CFO is part of your goals, get your CFO readiness score here: https://thecfo.scoreapp.com/

Mike High (CFO, NAIT; ex-Shell Deep Water CFO) shares leadership lessons from the Army to corporate finance: why the “platinum rule” beats one-size-fits-all leadership, what truly changes when you move from FP&A to the CFO seat, and how to carry a portfolio of crises without burning out.We discussed:practical playbooks to lead through a portfolio of crisis,how to keep long-term work moving during emergencies,what most companies get wrong about FP&A,how to make digital transformation succeed.Get your CFO readiness score here: https://thecfo.scoreapp.com/Whether becoming a CFO is your goal or not, this assessment highlights the competencies that matter most at the VP level and above, in finance.It’s completely free, and you will get personalized results instantly.Big thanks to insightsoftware for sponsoring this episode.Join our upcoming webinar on October 15th >https://insightsoftware.com/resources/get-out-of-the-reporting-rut-how-finance-leaders-drive-strategic-impact/

Andrea Hecht, EVP & CFO at CSAA Insurance Group, walks through the real shifts at each step of her career — from auditor at Big 4 accounting firm, EY, to Controller, and ultimately CFO. She explains how the focus moves from technical detail to culture, strategy, and leadership. We cover:Why the first move from public accounting to industry didn’t work, and why the second one did.How interviews and expectations change as you move up.What makes the Controller → CFO leap so challenging.How to get Accounting and FP&A working as one team.The habits that keep her sharp while leading finance at a 4,000-person organization.It's an insightful roadmap for anyone asking what actually changes when you leave public accounting and aim for the CFO seat.Get your CFO readiness score here: https://thecfo.scoreapp.com/Whether becoming a CFO is your goal or not, this assessment highlights the competencies that matter most at the VP level and above, in finance.It’s completely free, and you will get personalized results instantly.

Controller vs FP&A : which path gives you a better shot at the CFO seat? Wassia Kamon has done both. In this solo episode, she reveals why neither route guarantees success on its own and what truly sets future CFOs apart. Drawing on her first year as a CFO, Wassia introduces her Executive Readiness Framework and explains how to develop the executive substance, influence, and presence boards and CEOs look for. Whether you're in the weeds of the close or building forecasts, this is the episode that will change how you think about your next move.Resources mentioned:The Free CFO Readiness AssessmentWhether becoming a CFO is your goal or not, this assessment highlights the competencies that matter most at the VP level and above, in finance.Get your CFO score here: https://thecfo.scoreapp.com/Learning Hub for Aspiring CFOsTo learn more about how to become a CFO, visit: https://thediaryofacfo.com/resources

This week on The Diary of a CFO, host Wassia Kamon is joined by Sheryl Shaw, Senior Manager at Bridgepoint Consulting and a former CFO with three decades of experience leading finance teams through transformation.Sheryl shares her remarkable journey, from starting as an accounting clerk in the 1980s to becoming a CFO 3 times, and now a trusted consultant for companies implementing NetSuite. She opens up about the lessons learned through chaos, the role of technology in finance, and how to build teams that are ready for change.In this episode, you’ll learn:What it really takes to scale a finance team that embraces innovationHow Sheryl built a treasury function from scratch, without formal trainingThe difference between operational and fundraising CFOsHer go-to strategies for managing change and gaining team buy-inThe mindset shift needed to lead in today’s tech-driven finance worldSpecial thanks to FISPAN for sponsoring this episode. FISPAN is a leading fintech company that seamlessly integrates banks with their clients’ enterprise resource planning (ERP) and accounting systems. For more information, head to www.fispan.com.

Christian Wattig is the program director of Wharton’s FP&A Certificate and the founder of InsideFP&A. In this episode, he shares his path from Procter & Gamble to becoming a leader in finance education, along with the pivotal lessons he learned along the way.You’ll learn:Why forecasting accuracy remains a major challenge for finance teamsHow to apply multiple forecasting methods for better resultsWhat separates great financial models from the restHow AI is reshaping FP&A work beyond just automationThe habits and mindset shifts needed to move from analyst to strategic business partnerThis conversation is packed with practical insights for anyone looking to sharpen their FP&A skills and drive real impact in their organization.

In this episode, Summa Simmons, Associate VP of Treasury at Victoria’s Secret & Co., shares what most people get wrong about treasury and why it's a strategic powerhouse. She explains how treasury helps companies manage cash, risk, and financial readiness during major business decisions like mergers and divestitures.Summa also opens up about her own journey from accounting to treasury, and what it means to be a true business partner across teams. You’ll learn:How treasury supports M&A and long-term business strategyWhy relationship-building is key to finance leadershipThe mindset shift from accounting to strategic thinkingCareer lessons on ownership, feedback, and staying curious

Most companies think cybersecurity is about firewalls and IT policies. But the real risk often starts with culture.In this episode, Dutch Schwartz, VP of Cloud Services at SideChannel and former security leader at AWS and Raytheon, shares why companies with poor culture are three times more likely to face a breach. We talk about how leadership, disengaged employees, and outdated mindsets quietly open the door to cyber threats.You'll also hear:The $25 million AI voice scam that could have been preventedHow to build a culture of security that actually sticksWhat CFOs need to understand about working with CISOsWhy cybersecurity is no longer just a tech problemThis conversation is a must-listen for finance and business leaders navigating today's digital risks.

Christina Ross, serial CFO turned CEO of Cube, explains why spreadsheets aren’t the problem and what finance leaders should focus on instead. She shares multiple frameworks for moving from manual chaos to strategic clarity. This episode is packed with insights on real-time planning, clean data, and leading high-impact finance teams.In this episode, we cover:The four layers of strategic financeHow to plan faster and forecast smarterPartnering across departments for better dataLeading with speed, structure, and strategic intent

In this episode of The Diary of a CFO, Wassia Kamon speaks with Dr. Tamer Alsayed, CFO at the Future Investment Initiative and author of The Art of Becoming a Strategic CFO. With over two decades of experience across industries and regions, Dr. Tamer offers a clear-eyed view of what today’s finance leaders need to succeed.The discussion covers:How the CFO role has evolved beyond reporting and complianceWhat it means to think and lead strategically in financeLessons from working on IPOs, M&A deals, and international startupsWhy transparency matters more than polish in investor relationsThe impact of mentorship, curiosity, and AI on future finance teamsThis episode is for anyone who wants to grow as a finance leader and make a meaningful impact in their organization.Special thanks to Bill for sponsoring this episode. Visit https://www.bill.com/guides to download a free toolkit on leading through uncertain times.

Welcome to Season 2 of The Diary of a CFO. In this kickoff solo episode, Wassia Kamon shares behind-the-scenes highlights from Season 1, why some careers stall at the executive door, and what actually opens it.You’ll hear:The real reason technical skills alone won’t get you promotedThe 3-digit P.I.N. code to executive leadershipWhat separates great CFOs from the restWhy work-life harmony beats balanceWhat’s new in Season 2?🎥 Full-video episodes on YouTube🗞 A brand-new Substack called Off the RecordJoin the conversation at: https://wassiakamon.substack.com/

In this episode, Syed Nadeem shares the lessons he wishes more finance professionals learned early on. He talks about why certifications alone won’t get you promoted, and why your mindset, human skills, and personal brand matter just as much as your technical skills.Syed also shares how losing his job became a turning point. He built a global brand and started helping others grow in their careers. From business partnering to leadership, this episode is full of insights that can help you stay relevant and move forward, no matter where you are in your finance journey.Today’s episode is brought to you by BILL, a leading financial operations platform for small and midsize businesses. I’m also hosting a free webinar on June 24th, 2025 at 1pm ET. Click here to learn more.

If you’ve ever lost sleep over complex contracts, usage-based pricing, or revenue schedules that live in hundreds spreadsheet tabs, this episode is for you.I’m joined by Apurv Bansal, co-founder and CEO of Zenskar, to talk about how AI is helping SaaS companies automate billing and revenue recognition end-to-end. We unpack why legacy tools can’t keep up with modern pricing models, what finance teams really need from automation, and how to avoid the most common implementation mistakes.Special thanks to Zenskar for sponsoring this episode. Visit zenskar.com/upgrade to learn more.

Audit Director at FORVIS Mazars and board treasurer for Girls on the Run Georgia, Kendra LaFleur opens up about her journey from intern to partner, how she grew into strategic leadership, and how she navigates the evolving role of finance in mission-driven organizations.

Stephen McLain led 250 soldiers as an Army Commander. He built internal controls in Iraq to fight fraud and misuse of funds. And, he defended military budgets in front of NATO.Now, he helps corporate finance and accounting teams fix problems with their internal processes, financial modeling, and strategy development.In this episode, he shares what finance professionals can learn from leading in high-stakes environments. We talk about strategic thinking, transitioning from military to corporate finance, and the leadership gaps most companies overlook.

Treasury often works behind the scenes, but Matthew Harlan shows why it should be a key player at the table. We cover what treasury leaders bring to IPO readiness, how to rethink working capital, and how finance teams can collaborate better across functions.

Jenny Fuss has led finance teams in Germany, China, and the United States. Each move meant learning a new way of working. In this episode, she shares how working and living in three different countries shaped her leadership style and helped her lead major transformations with clarity and confidence.

Tamica Williams went from relying on food pantries as a kid to leading the largest food bank in Georgia as CFO. She shares how she made the jump from teaching to accounting, built her career and why leadership is about showing up 100% no matter where you start.

Jack McCullough has spent decades in the CFO seat, but his biggest impact may be what he’s done for the next generation of CFOs.He’s the founder of the CFO Leadership Council, a global community of over 2,500 senior finance leaders, and the author of three books including Secrets of Rockstar CFOs and MBA for Lunch.In this conversation, Jack opens up about:What companies really look for in a CFO,Why some controllers get stuck (and what to do about it),How one rejection led him to create the CFO Leadership Council,The most underrated career move finance professionals can make.This is a must-listen for finance professionals at every stage.

What do you get when a CFO, CPA, and accounting professor starts teaching on TikTok?42,000 followers and a new way to make accounting finally click.In this episode of The Diary of a CFO, I sit down with Professor Bee Nance to talk about her multi-hyphenate career, from leading a multimillion-dollar nonprofit to becoming a viral content creator and author of Sunny Gets Money, a financial literacy book for kids.We cover:What it takes to thrive as a nonprofit CFOWhy even seasoned finance pros struggle with personal moneyHow Bee’s classroom experience helped her go viral onlineThe disconnect between accounting education and real-world financeHow to make accounting relatable in the age of AI

In this solo episode, I answer 4 questions from my newsletter subscribers:Is the climb and reach to CFO worth it?Do you enjoy the work and people?Do you have work-life balance?What helped you get there?If you’ve got questions about leadership, your team, or growing in your role, the best way to ask is through my newsletter. Subscribe at thediaryofacfo.com.

In this episode of the Diary of a CFO podcast, Edwine Alphonse shares her journey from a work-study student in Canada to a senior controller at Ramp, discussing her experiences in startups, the importance of accounting, and how to build a high-performing finance team. She emphasizes the critical role of accounting in business operations and the necessity for finance leaders to advocate for adequate technology for their teams.

Finance leaders are under pressure to move faster, stay accurate, and be more strategic. But not every challenge can be solved with technology. In this episode, John Glasgow, Founder and CEO of Campfire, shares issues technology can help solve, like improving audit trails and enforcing controls, and the ones that require stronger business partnerships, like getting finance involved in the right conversations early. We also get into why some teams over-engineer their processes, how to scale without adding unnecessary complexity, and what it really takes to grow as a leader in today’s business environment.

Sindy Wilson didn’t plan to be in finance. She was headed for med school until dissecting a rat and a cat made her rethink everything. That switch led her to a career in finance, where she’s led transformation at Kickstarter, Lyft, and AutoTrader. In this episode, she breaks down how to stand out, get on big projects, and lead major change in any organisation.

Six months as a CFO has taught me a lot about leadership, decision-making, and what it really takes to succeed in this role. In this solo episode, I share my biggest takeaways so far: why managing a board is nothing like just presenting to one, how to lead when there’s no playbook, and why staying plugged into the right circles is non-negotiable.

Most people assume nonprofits just need to balance donations with expenses. But in reality, nonprofit finance comes with its own set of complexities. In this episode, Stephen Newland shares what leaders need to understand about nonprofit financial management, and how to make better long-term financial decisions.

After 25 years as a CFO, Jeremy Earnshaw transitioned from managing numbers to mentoring leaders. He shares what he wishes he knew earlier, the common leadership mistakes CFOs make, and how coaching can accelerate career growth. We also talk about the shift from technical expertise to strategic influence, the importance of self-awareness in leadership, and the mindset changes that separate good CFOs from great ones.

What if the problem isn’t the numbers, but everything around them? Beverly Davis has spent years helping businesses fix their financial blind spots. From misaligned strategies to communication breakdowns, she knows why execution often fails before it even starts. In this episode, we dive into what really makes or breaks a company’s financial success and how to spot the non-financial issues slowing your business down.

Scott Meyers, CFO of Plurilock, talks about what it takes to lead in a fast-changing environment.We discuss how he approaches strategic decisions, manages risk, and communicates with the board while keeping the team aligned.He also shares lessons from handling unexpected situations, like bankruptcy, and how those experiences shaped his approach to the role.

Janice Stucke shares how her career evolved without a clear roadmap and how stepping into roles before feeling fully ready shaped her path to the CFO seat.We talk about career pivots, taking on new challenges, and how those decisions influenced her growth over time.She also reflects on how that mindset carried into her work leading teams and navigating change.

Basem Waheed, CFO of Golden Chicken Farms Co., shares his path into finance leadership and the work behind improving finance operations.We talk about how his team reduced month-end close to one day, what had to change to make that possible, and how he approached digital transformation inside a large organization.He also shares how communication, trust across teams, and continuous learning play a role in leading change at this level.