Episode 2: Blindspots in the Boardroom

In accounting and finance, technical excellence often leads to promotion. Strong operators become Controllers. Strong Controllers become CFOs.

But leadership is more than operational strength.

In this episode of Beyond the Balance Sheet, I sit down with Crystal Sittser to talk about the blindspots that can quietly shape — and sometimes damage — finance teams from the top down.

We unpack:

• The real dynamics between CFOs and Controllers
• Where alignment breaks down and why
• How control can unintentionally replace empowerment
• The subtle behaviors that push high performers away
• Why strong finance teams on paper still struggle with retention

Most leadership blindspots are not intentional. They show up in communication patterns, decision-making styles, feedback habits, and how authority is exercised.

The truth is, finance leaders are rarely given direct feedback on their leadership impact. And without awareness, even high-performing executives can unintentionally create disengagement or tension at the top.

This conversation is for CFOs, Controllers, and emerging finance leaders who want to build high standards and healthy culture at the same time.

Because sometimes the biggest risk in the boardroom isn’t strategy.

It’s the blindspot you don’t see.

Let us know your biggest takeaway.

In the first episode of Beyond the Balance Sheets, host Amanda Timm sits down with CFO Alex Barros to explore what it really takes to succeed in today’s finance leadership roles.

Alex shares insights from his journey to the CFO seat, including what he prioritizes in the first 30 days of a new role, how long-term strategy shapes decision-making, and what the modern CFO role looks like in an increasingly complex environment. The conversation covers executive leadership, partnering with CEOs, navigating acquisitions, and how AI is changing the future of finance.

This episode goes beyond the numbers to highlight the leadership mindset, judgment, and real-world experience behind the CFO title.