In this episode of Future Finance, we explore the intersection of data, storytelling, and financial strategy. Hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper sit down with Gabi Steele to discuss how modern AI tools are transforming FP&A teams and creating new opportunities for organizations to harness their data effectively. From manual processes to automated systems, we dive into the strategies behind making businesses truly data-driven.

Gabi Steele is an acclaimed entrepreneur and data visualization expert, best known for her work as co-founder of Data Culture, a consulting firm enabling data-driven decisions, and Preql, an AI-powered enterprise metrics platform that recently secured $7 million in seed funding. With a background in graphic design and a master's in data visualization, Gabi is passionate about making data accessible, accurate, and actionable for businesses of all sizes. She shares insights from her journey, including her time at The Washington Post and the founding of innovative startups.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How Gabi's creative background in graphic design shaped her approach to data visualization and entrepreneurship.
• The role of AI in automating data cleaning and governance for finance teams.
• Strategies for reducing technical debt in SMBs to unlock the full potential of data.
• Why storytelling is critical in finance and how data visualization bridges the gap between insights and action.
• Tips for fostering a data-driven culture within organizations and empowering FP&A teams.

Gabi Steele provided a wealth of knowledge on how data visualization, AI, and automation are transforming the way finance teams operate. From reducing manual processes to fostering data-driven cultures, her expertise inspires both SMBs and larger organizations to rethink how they leverage data for strategic growth. 

Follow Gabi:

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

Website: https://www.preql.com/

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Glenn:

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

Follow Paul:

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

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg

Future 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:

[00:09] Introduction for Gabi Steele

[01:09] From Art to Analytics

[04:33] Data Storytelling in Finance

[08:04] AI and FP&A Transformation

[14:14] The Democratization of Analytics

[18:15] Challenges in SMB Data Adoption

[19:04] Building a Data-Driven Culture

[33:58] Fun Get-to-Know-You Questions

[38:16] Closing Thoughts