In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst chats with Wassia Kamon, the Chief Financial Officer at Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE), about her journey from financial planning and analysis (FP&A) to leading as a CFO. Wassia opens up about the challenges, surprises, and growth she's experienced, particularly in learning to navigate the boardroom and building strategic influence within her organization. Along the way, she shares valuable insights into leadership, trust-building, and why it's essential for finance professionals to expand beyond the numbers.

Wassia Kamon is a finance powerhouse with over 15 years of experience across various industries, including manufacturing, technology, pharmaceuticals, and nonprofits. As CFO at ACE, a nonprofit lending institution, she plays a key role in providing capital to entrepreneurs. Wassia has also been recognized as a 40 Under 40 honoree by CPA Practice Advisor and is the host of the podcast The Diary of a CFO. She's passionate about helping high-potential finance leaders step into executive roles and shares her expertise through coaching, speaking engagements, and teaching at the Wharton Online Certificate Program.

Expect to Learn:

• How Wassia transitioned from FP&A to CFO and the unexpected challenges she faced along the way.
• The power of trust and relationships in becoming a key business partner, not just a number cruncher.
• Why being invited into decision-making conversations early is a game changer for finance teams.
• What it was really like dealing with the board of directors for the first time as a CFO.
• How to expand your influence and take a broader view of business to become a true strategic partner.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “In FP&A, it's important to build those relationships early and not just be the person catching up after decisions are made.” - Wassia Kamon
• “You can’t be great at FP&A unless you are in the room where decisions are made. It’s about having the trust to influence, not just report.” - Wassia Kamon
• “Good FP&A is when you're already top of mind to decision makers, and they come to you for input, not the other way around.” - Wassia Kamon

Wassia delivers a powerful perspective on the role of financial leaders and the critical need for stronger relationships, trust-building, and strategic influence in today’s business environment. This episode is essential listening for finance professionals, aspiring CFOs, and business leaders looking to enhance their impact, improve decision-making, and build stronger, more collaborative teams.

Corporate Finance Institute:

Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_ads

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Wassia:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/

Website - https://www.wassiakamon.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

2025 FP&A Tools Showcase:

Discover the best in FP&A without the sales pressure. The 2025 FP&A Tools Showcase is a free event where top platforms demo their solutions, share their approach to planning, and answer your questions with no pitches, just insights. Join us on May 22nd and see how today’s leading tools stack up.

Register now at https://bit.ly/42YPPkF

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:42] - Welcome and Introduction

[03:29] - Wassia’s Journey from FP&A to CFO

[05:02] - What Makes Great FP&A?

[07:13] - Dealing with the Board for the First Time

[09:45] - Building Trust and Strategic Influence in Finance

[13:20] - Leading in Multiple Industries

[17:05] - Expanding Your Network and Influence

[21:14] - Managing Uncertainty as a CFO

[25:32] - Leadership Lessons from Wassia’s Career

[29:00] - Building Effective Relationships in Business

[33:47] - Key Takeaways

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Parker Gilbert, CEO and Co-founder of Numeric, to explore the transformation of accounting through smarter tools and processes. From his background in investment banking to leading finance at a startup, Parker shares the inspiration behind Numeric, a platform built specifically to simplify the financial close. Why the financial close is still so manual, how poor tooling can hinder team performance, and what it takes to modernize accounting. Parker discusses the pain points accounting teams face with existing software and explains why Numeric was designed to meet the real-world needs of growing finance teams.

Parker Gilbert is the CEO and Co-founder of Numeric, a financial close platform designed to make accounting teams faster, more accurate, and more collaborative. With a background in investment banking and hands-on experience as Head of Finance at Hearth, Parker understands both the strategic and operational challenges finance teams face. Frustrated by the limitations of traditional accounting tools, Parker set out to build Numeric, software purpose-built to simplify and streamline the month-end close.

Expect to Learn:

• Why Parker and his team started Numeric to solve overlooked pain points in accounting.
• How traditional tools like Excel and legacy ERP systems are failing modern accounting teams.
• What it means to build software specifically for the financial close process.
• Why visibility and collaboration are essential in reducing close errors.
• How Numeric empowers teams to understand what’s been done, what’s left, and where issues arise.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “The close is this sort of well-understood pain point in accounting, but there's no purpose-built software that helps solve it.” - Parker Gilbert
• “We believe the best way to build software is to partner really closely with customers.” - Parker Gilbert
• “Accounting is really about trust, it’s about giving your team the confidence that everything is covered.” - Parker Gilbert

Parker delivers a powerful perspective on the role of accounting teams and the urgent need for smarter, more intuitive tools. This episode is essential listening for finance professionals, controllers, and startup leaders looking to improve their close process, enhance accuracy, and make better business decisions. If you’re tired of copy-pasting across spreadsheets and guessing what’s done, this conversation will inspire you to rethink your accounting stack.

Corporate Finance Institute:

Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_ads

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Parker:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/parker-gilbert-99483298/

Website - https://www.numeric.io/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

2025 FP&A Tools Showcase:

Discover the best in FP&A without the sales pressure. The 2025 FP&A Tools Showcase is a free event where top platforms demo their solutions, share their approach to planning, and answer your questions with no pitches, just insights. Join us on May 22nd and see how today’s leading tools stack up.

Register now at https://bit.ly/42YPPkF

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:42] - Introduction to the Episode

[03:29] - What Makes Great FP&A?

[05:02] - The Importance of Pricing Strategy

[08:45] - Global Trends in Pricing

[10:26] - Coaching Rugby at Duke

[12:17] - Adapting to Economic Shifts

[15:20] - Challenges in Today’s Market

[21:14] - Winning Big-Name Clients

[24:32] - Unexpected Surprises in Finance

[27:13] - Transparency in Pricing

[32:31] - Why Finance & Ops Often Go Together

[36:17] - Why FP&A Must Understand the Business

[42:44] - Parker’s Time Travel Wish

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Anders Liu-Lindberg, a leading expert in business partnering and finance communication. Anders discusses how finance teams can elevate their role from traditional number crunchers to strategic partners within the business. He shares his insights on the importance of effective communication in finance, the value of business partnering, and how FP&A professionals can make a greater impact within their organizations.

Anders is the co-founder and partner at the Business Partnering Institute, where he helps finance teams transform into strategic business partners. With over 10 years of experience as a business partner at Maersk, Anders has firsthand knowledge of what it takes to create value through finance. He is the co-author of Create Value as a Finance Business Partner and is about to release his new book, Communicating Financials to Executives. He is also a top LinkedIn voice with over 400,000 followers, where he shares valuable content for finance professionals looking to grow their careers and impact.

Expect to Learn:

• How FP&A can go from just reporting numbers to playing a strategic role in the company.
• The best way to present financial insights so executives can act on them.
• Why synthesizing data is important for decision-making, and how it's different from just summarizing it.
• Practical steps to improve communication between finance teams and business leaders.
• How to build strong relationships with stakeholders, even when they’re hesitant to work with finance.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Business partnering isn’t about pushing your thoughts on the business; it’s about bringing them along." - Anders Liu-Lindberg
• "The true value of FP&A comes from helping the business translate strategy into actionable plans." - Anders Liu-Lindberg
• "FP&A should move beyond budgeting and forecasting to become a strategic business partner." - Anders Liu-Lindberg

Anders Liu-Lindberg provided valuable insights on how finance professionals can become strategic business partners. His advice on communication, synthesizing data, and building relationships offers practical steps for success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to make a bigger impact in FP&A. The wisdom shared will help professionals thrive in an evolving business environment.

Corporate Finance Institute:

Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_ads

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Andres:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/Anders liulindberg/?originalSubdomain=dk

Website - https://www.bpidk.org/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

Streamline Financial Planning with Kepion:

Get up and running fast with planning that grows as you do. Kepion is a Microsoft-based solution that helps you implement quickly, integrate data seamlessly, and scale with self-service. From FP&A to CapEx, and workforce planning, Kepion empowers you to adapt faster, plan with confidence, and drive real ROI. 

Learn more at https://bit.ly/3YI5cfp

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:10] - Meet Anders Liu-Lindberg

[04:47] - What Makes Great FP&A?

[06:26] - Example of Great FP&A in Action

[08:10] - The Business Partnering Institute

[11:24] - Anders’ New Book: Communicating Financials to Executives

[13:27] - Framework for Communicating Financial Insights

[15:59] - Importance of Aligning on Numbers

[21:39] - Synthesizing vs. Summarizing Data

[29:11] - Using Qualitative Data in Decision-Making

[33:01] - Building Strong Business Relationships

[39:20] - Key Skills for Success in FP&A

[45:18] - Final Advice on Business Partnering

In this special episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Cassie McCombs, Marcus Gadson, and Mario Vasquez. Together, they share their experiences with the Certified Corporate FP&A Professional (FPAC) credential from the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP). The guests discuss how earning the FPAC has shaped their careers, the impact it’s had on their professional growth, and why this certification is becoming an essential asset for finance professionals.

Cassie is the Vice President of FP&A at Ultradent Products, a dental manufacturing company, where she played a key role in building the company’s first FP&A team from the ground up. Marcus serves as the Senior Finance Director at Wellpath, a healthcare company, where he is passionate about making finance accessible across all departments. Mario is the Senior Director of Finance at E.W. Scripps Company, brings over 25 years of experience in FP&A. He was part of the first cohort to earn the credential and shares valuable insights on how the certification helped him stand out and advance in his career.

Expect to Learn:

• The impact of continuing education on staying up-to-date in the field of FP&A.
• The value of the credential and how it can impact your career in FP&A.
• Key insights on how to prepare for the exam and tips for success.
• The importance of continuous learning and staying updated in the financial industry.
• The role of FP&A in driving business strategy and decision-making.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Data is not a four-letter word. It's essential to understanding and improving the business." - Cassie McCombs
• "If you’re not learning, you're going backward. The FPAC credential helps you stay on top of industry trends." - Mario Vasquez
• "Collaborating with non-finance teams is essential for making an impact as a finance leader." - Marcus Gadson

Cassie, Marcus, and Mario shared valuable perspectives on the impact of the FPAC credential on their careers and the financial planning and analysis profession. Their advice on the importance of continuous learning, collaboration across departments, and staying adaptable in an ever-evolving industry provides actionable steps for finance professionals seeking to advance their skills and make a greater impact within their organizations. The experiences and wisdom shared in this episode are invaluable for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of FP&A and drive long-term business success.

FP&A Community Hub:

Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.

Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJ

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Mario:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-vasquez-finance/

Follow Marcus:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusgadson/

Follow Cassie:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassie-mccombs-fpac-10a373a4/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

FP&A Certificates:

FP&A Certificates is where finance professionals go to level up, stand out, and grow their careers. Built by FP&A experts for the FP&A community, this platform features the top certificate programs from Wharton Online,, CFI, FMI, and more. It’s the smartest way to compare your options, find the right fit, and get exclusive discounts. Show your commitment to FP&A and take your skills to the next level. Explore now at https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications

Explore the resources and discounts available:

• FPAC Program from Association of Financial Professionals (AFP)
• Use Code Exam: TheFPAGuy-FPAC – Exam for $150 Discount
• Use Code Exam Prep Platform: TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP – Exam Prep Platform for $100 Discount
• Certificate of FP&A from Wharton Online and Wall Street Prep
• https://secure.enroll.wharton.wallstreetprep.com/referral/
• Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 – $300 Program Discount
• Certified Global FP&A Professional (CGFPA) | FP&A Professionals
• Use Code: FPAGUY - $200 Program Discount
• Financial Modeler's Corner Podcast - FMI
• Code: Podcast for a 15% Program Discount
• Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) Programs
• Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)
• Code: FPAGUY30 for a 30% discount on the FMVA and FP&A Specialization programs
• FP&A specialization
• Certification in Financial Planning & Analysis Modeling (CFPAM™) | Wall Street Prep

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:34] - Introduction of Episode

[02:35] - Meet the Guests: Cassie, Marcus, and Mario

[04:30] - What Makes Great FP&A?

[07:21] - The Decision to Get Certified

[10:13] - Other Credentials Considered

[13:19] - Career Impact of the FPAC

[19:19] - Study Approaches & Exam Tips

[27:06] - Continuing Education with AFP

[29:23] -'s Long-Term Career Impact

[41:41] - Top FP&A Skills

[46:36] - Fun Questions with the Guests

In this special episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Karan Sood, a global pricing expert with over a decade of experience in revenue management and pricing strategies. Karan shares his knowledge on the impact of tariffs on global trade and pricing models. He talks about the complexities of tariffs, offering advice on how businesses can effectively manage the financial implications and adapt their pricing strategies during these uncertain times. Karan discusses the importance of collaboration across departments and creating flexible models that can quickly adjust to changing market conditions.

Karan Sood is a global pricing expert and the Director of Sales Operations with a wealth of experience overseeing revenue management for over $6 billion across a wide range of industries. He is passionate about using pricing as a powerful tool to drive profitability and improve business performance. Karan has worked across industries including automotive, digital marketing, consumer goods, and more, developing pricing strategies that create real business value.

Expect to Learn:

• How tariffs impact different industries and pricing strategies.
• Why a one-size-fits-all approach to tariffs is flawed and the importance of tailored strategies.
• The role of cross-functional collaboration in managing tariff impacts.
• How to create flexible pricing models that can quickly adjust to shifting market conditions.
• The importance of transparency with customers when adjusting prices due to tariffs.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Every industry is different; you can’t use the same assumptions for all goods under tariffs." - Karan Sood
• "Stay calm, don’t make decisions too quickly. Information is constantly changing." - Karan Sood
• "The key to managing tariffs is creating a flexible pricing model that can adapt quickly to new developments." - Karan Sood

Karan Sood shared meaningful strategies for managing the complexities of tariffs in today’s global trade environment. His advice to stay calm, work collaboratively, and prioritize flexibility in pricing models is invaluable for finance professionals looking to navigate the challenges posed by tariffs. By emphasizing the importance of cross-departmental communication and transparency with customers, Karan offers actionable steps that can help businesses succeed in a volatile market.

FP&A Community Hub:

Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.

Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJ

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Karan:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/soodkaran/?originalSubdomain=ca

Website - https://substack.com/@karansood

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

FP&A Certificates:

FP&A Certificates is where finance professionals go to level up, stand out, and grow their careers. Built by FP&A experts for the FP&A community, this platform features the top certificate programs from Wharton Online, FPAC, CFI, FMI, and more. It’s the smartest way to compare your options, find the right fit, and get exclusive discounts. Show your commitment to FP&A and take your skills to the next level. Explore now at https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:08] - Introduction of Episode

[03:12] - Karan’s Journey into Pricing

[06:53] - The Global Impact of Tariffs

[12:13] - Why One-Size-Fits-All Doesn’t Work

[16:24] - Managing the Impact of Tariffs

[20:06] - Building Flexible Pricing Models

[27:03]-  Smart Pricing Strategies

[33:15] - Transparency with Consumers

[34:34] - Cross-Department Collaboration

[40:02] - Book recommended by Karan

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) speaks with Alfredo Kinanga and Jihane Mochamad, two graduates of the Certified Global FP&A Certificate Program (CGFPAC). They share why they chose the program, the key takeaways that shaped their professional growth, and how the course helped them sharpen both technical and soft skills. From business partnering and financial modeling to data storytelling and AI, their experiences offer practical insight for anyone considering an FP&A certification or looking to elevate their career in finance.

Alfredo Kinanga is a finance and trade marketing professional with 14+ years of experience in accounting, planning, and commercial finance.He’s passionate about driving business growth and using FP&A to connect strategy and execution. Jihane Mochamad is a CPA from Canada with over 10 years in payroll, financial reporting, and budgeting.She works in the senior living industry, focusing on automation and preparing for the future of finance.

Expect to Learn:

• What Alfredo and Jihane gained from the strategy and AI modules
• How financial modeling and data storytelling helped transform their work
• The power of co-creation and business partnering in FP&A
• Why communication, empathy, and stakeholder relationships are must-have skills
• How the program helped them reconnect with foundational finance knowledge

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “Strategy gave me a big picture view, even from a payroll position.” - Jihane Mochamad
• “FP&A is about empathy, collaboration, and understanding the business.” - Paul Barnhurst
• “Data storytelling taught me how to present insights with clarity.” - Alfredo Kinanga

Alfredo and Jihane brought energy, honesty, and real-life examples to this episode, sharing how the Certified Global FP&A Program helped reshape their careers and perspectives. From strengthening their technical and soft skills to embracing AI and strategy, their stories show what’s possible when you invest in your own development and approach FP&A with curiosity and collaboration.

FP&A Community Hub:

Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.

Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJ

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Alfredo:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alfredo-kinanga/?trk=org-employees&originalSubdomain=ao

Follow Jihane:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jihane-mochamad/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

FP&A Certificates:

FP&A Certificates is where finance professionals go to level up, stand out, and grow their careers. Built by FP&A experts for the FP&A community, this platform features the top certificate programs from Wharton Online, FPAC, CFI, FMI, and more. It’s the smartest way to compare your options, find the right fit, and get exclusive discounts. Show your commitment to FP&A and take your skills to the next level. Explore now at https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications

Explore the resources and discounts available:

• FPAC Program from Association of Financial Professionals (AFP)
• Use Code Exam: TheFPAGuy-FPAC – Exam for $150 Discount
• Use Code Exam Prep Platform: TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP – Exam Prep Platform for $100 Discount
• Certificate of FP&A from Wharton Online and Wall Street Prep
• https://secure.enroll.wharton.wallstreetprep.com/referral/
• Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 – $300 Program Discount
• Certified Global FP&A Professional (CGFPA) | FP&A Professionals
• Use Code: FPAGUY - $200 Program Discount
• Financial Modeler's Corner Podcast - FMI
• Code: Podcast for a 15% Program Discount
• Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) Programs
• Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)
• Code: FPAGUY30 for a 30% discount on the FMVA and FP&A Specialization programs
• FP&A specialization
• Certification in Financial Planning & Analysis Modeling (CFPAM™) | Wall Street Prep

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:20] - Meet Alfredo and Jihane

[04:08] - What Makes Great FP&A

[06:10] - Discovering the CGFPAC Program

[12:35] - Alfredo’s Biggest Takeaway

[16:23] - Co-Creation in Finance

[18:36] - Jihane’s Shift Toward FP&A

[23:56] - Favorite Course Modules

[30:32] - AI Section Highlights

[33:33] - Advice for Future Students

[38:40] - Must-Have Technical Skills

[40:25] - Top Soft Skills for FP&A

[42:58] - Career Reflections and Final Thoughts

In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) sits down with Dan Cotoia and Anh Tran, two accomplished finance professionals who recently completed the FP&A Certificate Program from Wharton Online in collaboration with Wall Street Prep. They share their reasons for enrolling, how the program supported their career growth, and what aspiring FP&A professionals can expect. From personal career pivots to practical tools and concepts, this conversation offers a clear and relatable look at the value of formal training in today’s finance landscape.

Dan Cotoia is a Senior Finance Director in the pharmaceutical industry with 18+ years of FP&A experience across commercial finance, R&D, and cost accounting.Anh Tran is a finance professional with a background in investment banking and regulatory finance, recently returning to corporate finance after completing the Wharton FP&A Certificate Program.

Expect to Learn:

• Why Dan and Anh chose the Wharton FP&A Certificate over other programs
• What makes the program stand out, from live interaction to practical content
• Key takeaways they applied directly to their jobs
• How much time you’ll actually spend on the coursework
• How the program supports career transitions and networking
• The role of AI and Power Query in modern FP&A training

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “The AI module helped me see where FP&A is heading. It’s not just Excel anymore.” - Dan Cotoia
• “It’s not just about learning concepts, it’s about connecting with others who live FP&A every day.” - Anh Tran

Dan Cotoia and Anh Tran shared honest, practical experiences about completing the Wharton FP&A Certificate Program.Their stories show how structured learning and the right tools can make a real difference in everyday finance work.

FP&A Community Hub:

Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.

Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJ

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Dan:

LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancotoia/

Follow Anh:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anh-tran-fpna-ccar-ppnr/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

FP&A Certificates:

FP&A Certificates is where finance professionals go to level up, stand out, and grow their careers. Built by FP&A experts for the FP&A community, this platform features the top certificate programs from Wharton Online, FPAC, CFI, FMI, and more. It’s the smartest way to compare your options, find the right fit, and get exclusive discounts. Show your commitment to FP&A and take your skills to the next level. Explore now at https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications

Explore the resources and discounts available:

• FPAC Program from Association of Financial Professionals (AFP)
• Use Code Exam: TheFPAGuy-FPAC – Exam for $150 Discount
• Use Code Exam Prep Platform: TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP – Exam Prep Platform for $100 Discount
• Certificate of FP&A from Wharton Online and Wall Street Prep
• https://secure.enroll.wharton.wallstreetprep.com/referral/
• Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 – $300 Program Discount
• Certified Global FP&A Professional (CGFPA) | FP&A Professionals
• Use Code: FPAGUY - $200 Program Discount
• Financial Modeler's Corner Podcast - FMI
• Code: Podcast for a 15% Program Discount
• Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) Programs
• Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)
• Code: FPAGUY30 for a 30% discount on the FMVA and FP&A Specialization programs
• FP&A specialization
• Certification in Financial Planning & Analysis Modeling (CFPAM™) | Wall Street Prep

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:05] - Dan and Anh’s Backgrounds

[06:33] - Defining Great FP&A

[10:31] - Why Anh Chose Wharton

[15:55] - Team Reaction to Dan Upskilling

[17:47] - Cohort and Community Experience

[24:27] - Anh’s Takeaways and Connections

[27:29] - Dan’s Practical Learnings

[31:44] - How Anh Built Her FP&A Network

[38:51] - Favorite Modules and Tools

[50:16] - Key FP&A Skills Today

In this episode Host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) sits down with Elias Apel, the CEO of Lucanet, to explore the evolving landscape of financial planning and analysis. From transforming the Office of the CFO with AI to driving strategic acquisitions, Elias shares how he’s leading Lucanet through hypergrowth and innovation while staying grounded in customer-centric leadership.

Elias Apel is the CEO of Lucanet, a global provider of “Office of the CFO” software solutions for enterprises and SMEs. Founded in 1999, Lucanet offers tools for financial planning, consolidation, ESG reporting, tax compliance, and treasury management. The company supports nearly 6,000 customers in over 50 countries, with offices across Germany, Europe, the UK, Asia, and North America. Elias previously served as Lucanet’s CFO and VP of International Go-to-Market. He is also the co-founder of Argonas Corporate Finance Advisors, specializing in complex M&A and financing transactions.

Expect to Learn:

• What makes FP&A truly impactful and strategic
• How to build trust across finance functions
• Leveraging AI to boost financial operations
• Transitioning from advisor to successful CEO
• Integrating data analytics under finance leadership
• Strategy behind Lucanet’s acquisition of Causal

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "Communication is the most important soft skill for any finance business partner."
• "Data analytics is the number one technical skill FP&A professionals should master today."
• "A modern CFO needs to be commercially minded, not just financially accurate."

Elias Apel shares valuable knowledge on leading through transformation, leveraging AI, and redefining the role of the CFO. He emphasizes the importance of trust, data-driven decision-making, and staying customer-focused. Whether you're in FP&A or executive leadership, his journey offers inspiration for building an agile, future-ready finance team. 

Operators Guild:

Operators Guild is where the best CEOs, CFOs, VPs of finance, and BizOps leaders in the business connect, network, and grow together. Built by operators for operators, this members-only community is home to more than 1000 of the most elite high-growth operators in the world. Experience connection and knowledge share with professionals who understand you like no one else does. Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/3F6sghS

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Elias:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliasapel/

Website - https://www.lucanet.com/en/solutions/extended-planning-and-analysis/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

FP&A Community Hub:

Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.

Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJ

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:51] - Introduction to the Episode

[03:34] - Defining Great FP&A

[09:18] - From M&A Advisor to CEO

[14:49] - Shifting from Operator to Strategic Leader

[19:31] - Why Roles Beyond Finance Matter

[25:36] - Embedding Data to Empower Finance Teams

[27:26] - The Evolving Role of the CFO

[35:51] - The Thinking Behind Lucanet’s M&A Strategy

[47:31] - Top Technical Skill for FP&A Professionals

[54:01] - Final Thoughts and Career Advice

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka the FP&A Guy) welcomes Glenn Snyder, a seasoned FP&A leader with over 20 years of experience. Glenn shares insights on financial planning and analysis, leadership strategies, and building effective business partnerships. He discusses the keys to driving business impact, managing teams, and navigating career growth in FP&A.

Glenn Snyder is a Senior Director at Riverrun Consulting, specializing in interim financial leadership. With a career spanning financial services, fintech, SaaS, private equity, and more, he has held leadership roles at Franklin Templeton, Visa, Charles Schwab, and Digital Realty. Glenn is also an author, educator, and board member, passionate about mentoring finance professionals and improving FP&A effectiveness.

Expect to Learn:

• The key elements of great FP&A and how it drives executive decisions
• How to balance company goals with employee career development
• Strategies for building strong business partnerships in FP&A
• The role of automation and efficiency in FP&A reporting and analysis
• How to successfully transition into a new leadership role
• Overcoming resistance from business leaders and earning trust in finance
• The importance of storytelling and data visualization in financial reporting

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “The best leaders give credit to their teams and create opportunities for them to shine.” - Glenn Snyder
• Your career growth is your responsibility. Stay curious, stay connected, and keep learning.” - Glenn Snyder
• “You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room, but you must be the most adaptable.” - Glenn Snyder

In this episode, Glenn Snyder shared his expertise on what makes FP&A impactful, how to lead finance teams, and the importance of strong business partnerships. He emphasized that great FP&A professionals don’t just report numbers, they drive decisions, build trust, and continuously improve processes. Being proactive, investing in relationships, and focusing on delivering insights, not just reports, are key. Success in FP&A comes from adapting, influencing, and always adding value.

Operator’s Guild:

Operators Guild is where the best CEOs, CFOs, VPs of finance, and BizOps leaders in the business connect, network, and grow together. Built by operators for operators, this members-only community is home to more than 1000 of the most elite high-growth operators in the world. Experience connection and knowledge share with professionals who understand you like no one else does. Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/3F6sghS

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

FP&A Community Hub:

Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.

Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJ

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:39] - Introduction to the Episode

[04:12] - What Great FP&A Looks Like

[09:17] - Transitioning to Leadership

[14:49] - Balancing Change in a New Role

[18:20] - Early Leadership Challenges

[23:36] - Flexibility in FP&A

[27:03] - Playing Sponge

[34:16] - Managing Career Growth

[46:51] - The #1 Technical Skill for FP&A

[59:32] - Great Advice for FP&A

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (The FP&A Guy) sits down with Jeff Casale and Rich Wagner to explore the role of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A). They discuss how AI, external data, and continuous planning are transforming the industry, making FP&A a more strategic function. The conversation covers the power of AI-driven forecasting and how businesses can leverage external economic indicators to gain a competitive edge.

Jeff Casale is the CEO of Board, a leading FP&A software company. With previous leadership roles at MarkLogic, Dell Technologies, VMware, and EMC, Jeff has a deep understanding of enterprise technology and how finance functions can drive business growth. Rich Wagner is the Field CTO at Board and the former CEO & Founder of Prevedere, a predictive analytics company that leverages external data for accurate forecasting. With over 20 years of experience in technology, consulting, and Fortune 500 leadership, Rich brings valuable expertise in the intersection of AI, finance, and business strategy.

Expect to Learn:

• How AI is transforming financial planning, reducing manual work, and improving decision-making.
• Why integrating external data is essential for more accurate forecasting and risk management.
• Why traditional budgeting cycles are outdated and how real-time, agile forecasting is becoming the new norm.
• How CEOs and finance leaders rely on FP&A teams for strategic decision-making.
• How finance professionals can improve their skills and become more valuable business partners.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “AI is revolutionizing FP&A by reducing manual work and improving time-to-value.” - Rich Wagner
• “The companies that embrace continuous planning will be the winners in their industries.” - Jeff Casale
• “External data helps FP&A teams anticipate risks, not just react to them.” - Rich Wagner

This episode reinforced the idea that FP&A is evolving into a strategic powerhouse. AI, external economic data, and real-time forecasting are changing how companies plan, react, and make decisions. FP&A professionals must develop both technical and strategic skills to stay relevant.

Operator’s Guild:

Operators Guild is where the best CEOs, CFOs, VPs of finance, and BizOps leaders in the business connect, network, and grow together. Built by operators for operators, this members-only community is home to more than 1000 of the most elite high-growth operators in the world. Experience connection and knowledge share with professionals who understand you like no one else does. Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/3F6sghS

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Jeff:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreycasale/

Board- https://www.board.com/

Follow Rich:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-wagner1/

Prevedere - https://prevedere.com/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

Planning in BI Showcase:

Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms. Now, with business intelligence tools you can integrate planning directly into your BI system. Join Paul on March 20th for the Planning in BI Showcase, where industry leaders will demonstrate how top BI tools are reshaping strategic planning. See firsthand how modern FP&A solutions can drive real value across your enterprise. Don’t miss out!

Register today for free at https://bit.ly/4aLzEe0

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:49] - Welcome & Guest Introductions

[03:53] - What Does Great FP&A Look Like?

[06:22] - Why Enter the FP&A Software Space?

[08:05] - Acquiring Prevedere: The Strategy Behind It

[14:28] - How External Data Improves Forecasting

[18:54] - How AI is Changing FP&A

[24:29] - How FP&A Teams Can Start Using External Data

[33:57] - The Shift to Continuous Planning

[41:50] - FP&A’s Role in Leadership & Decision-Making

[47:48] - The #1 Skill for FP&A Professionals

[56:33] - Who Would You Swap Jobs With?

[59:53] - Final Thoughts & Where to Learn More