GrowCFO Show

By Kevin Appleby

The GrowCFO Show is the podcast produced for finance leaders by finance leaders... more

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How many episodes does GrowCFO Show have?

The podcast currently has 250 episodes available.

GrowCFO Show episodes:

August 26, 2025#248 Why CFOs Must Balance Results with Legitimacy Paul Achleitner, Former Deutsche Bank Chair & Goldman Sachs Partner
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02hn26-tQBk
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0tBDVuXoypTamhrWnvXBj8
In today’s complex business environment, CFOs are expected to deliver strong results while also maintaining the legitimacy and trust of their organizations. Paul Achleitner, former Deutsche Bank Chair and Goldman Sachs Partner, shares his unique perspective on the evolving demands of financial leadership. Achleitner emphasizes that while performance metrics remain crucial, the legitimacy dimension—how stakeholders perceive the organization’s actions and values—has become equally vital in an era of transparency and social media scrutiny.
Drawing from decades of boardroom experience, Achleitner discusses the risks of relying solely on past experience, the importance of judgment in a rapidly changing world, and the need for CFOs to manage both their own egos and those of their teams. He highlights the dangers of both underperformance and unsustainable overperformance, urging leaders to continuously evaluate whether they are truly adding value. Achleitner’s insights offer CFOs practical guidance on navigating the balance between delivering results and sustaining legitimacy, ensuring long-term organizational success in a world where both are under constant public review.
Key topics covered:
The critical need for CFOs to balance performance with legitimacy in leadership
Why obsolete experience can hinder effective decision-making in today’s fast-changing environment
The growing importance of judgment and self-evaluation for finance leaders
Managing egos and fostering authentic, team-based leadership structures
The risks of both underperformance and unsustainable overperformance
The evolving role of the CFO as a “chief value officer” focused on long-term impact
Links
Paul Achleitner on LinkedIn
Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn
GrowCFO Mentoring
Timestamps
0:05:50 Achleitner introduces the “performance” and “legitimacy” dimensions of leadership
0:10:59 Discussion on the dangers of obsolete experience and the need for accelerated learning
0:13:43 Advice for managing change and the inevitability of unintended consequences
0:15:28 The importance of controlling egos and building strong leadership structures
0:20:18 Addressing imposter syndrome and the power of convincing narratives
0:29:07 The illusion of satisfactory underperformance and the need for continuous improvement
0:30:33 The deception of sustainable overperformance and the importance of balance
0:33:24 The CFO’s evolving role as a chief value officer and the importance of legitimacy
Find out more about GrowCFO
If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode.
GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here.
You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net
...more
36min
August 19, 2025#247 Why Tech Talent Can Supercharge Your Finance Team Jay Majeske, Founder, Stalliant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWB_AMZQZ4M
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0P8V9z07yLiLffCgKowZxM
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the integration of technology talent into finance teams is no longer a luxury but a necessity. This episode explores how leveraging technical expertise can drive operational efficiency, foster innovation, and future-proof financial operations. Jay Majeske, Founder of Stalliant, brings a wealth of experience to the discussion, sharing insights on how full-stack developers and data-driven approaches are transforming the traditional finance function.
Majeske highlights the inefficiencies of conventional CFO models and introduces a forward-thinking strategy that combines technical and financial acumen. By training developers in accounting principles and embedding them within finance teams, organizations can unlock new levels of automation, data modeling, and process optimization. The conversation underscores the importance of cultural change, continuous learning, and the adoption of best practices to ensure finance teams remain agile and competitive in the face of technological disruption.
Key topics covered:
The evolving role of CFOs and the need for technical skills in finance
How full-stack developers trained in accounting can drive efficiency
The impact of automation and data models on financial operations
The importance of cultural change and continuous learning in finance teams
Predictions for the future of FinTech and process-oriented software
Bespoke solutions for lower middle-market clients to address unique challenges
Links
Tinashe Chigede on LinkedIn
Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn
GrowCFO Mentoring
Timestamps
0:02:57 Introduction of Jay Majeske and his background in fractional CFO work
0:05:07 The game-changing impact of hiring full-stack developers for finance
0:09:37 Embedding tech talent in FP&A and governance roles
0:16:51 The enduring relevance of Excel and Power BI in modern finance
0:22:34 The critical role of culture in successful tech adoption
0:29:40 FinTech trends: process-oriented software and democratization of technology
0:33:23 The future of finance jobs: shifting from production to critical thinking and research
Find out more about GrowCFO
If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode.
GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here.
You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net
...more
30min
August 12, 2025#246 The Nonprofit CFO Playbook: Strategy, Stewardship, and Scale Tinashe Chigede, Director of Finance and Administration, SOS Children’s Villages USA
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#246 The Nonprofit CFO Playbook: Strategy, Stewardship, and Scale Tinashe Chigede, Director of Finance and Administration, SOS Children’s Villages USA
https://youtu.be/ofti6Vpcyko
Your browser does not support the audio element.

In this compelling episode of The GrowCFO Show, Kevin Appleby explores the unique challenges and opportunities facing nonprofit CFOs through an insightful conversation with Tinashe Chigede, Director of Finance and Administration at SOS Children’s Villages USA. The discussion delves into the critical role of financial leadership in nonprofit organizations, where CFOs must balance fiscal responsibility with mission-driven outcomes while navigating complex funding landscapes and donor relationships.
Chigede shares his remarkable personal journey from attending an SOS Children’s Villages primary school in Zimbabwe to becoming a senior finance leader at the same organization that shaped her early life. The conversation reveals how nonprofit CFOs must evolve beyond traditional operational roles to become strategic partners who align financial decisions with long-term mission outcomes, diversify funding streams, and build sustainable financial models that support vulnerable children and families across 130 countries.
The episode provides valuable insights into the nonprofit sector’s financial complexities, including the management of restricted versus unrestricted funds, the importance of fundraising ROI, and the critical need for transparency and accountability in donor stewardship. Chigede’s expertise demonstrates how effective financial leadership in nonprofits requires a unique blend of strategic thinking, mission alignment, and stakeholder relationship management.
Key topics covered:
Strategic Evolution: Transformation from operational finance roles to strategic financial leadership that aligns budgets with mission outcomes and guides organizational risk management
Funding Diversification: Critical importance of developing multiple revenue streams including government funding, individual donors, and foundation grants to ensure organizational sustainability
Donor Stewardship: Building trust through transparency, accountability, and demonstrating tangible results to maintain long-term donor relationships and secure recurring funding
Mission-Financial Integration: Balancing restricted and unrestricted funding while tracking both financial KPIs and mission-driven metrics to measure organizational effectiveness
Personal Impact Leadership: Leveraging personal connection to the organization’s mission to drive authentic leadership and overcome imposter syndrome in senior finance roles
AI and Innovation: Embracing technology and artificial intelligence as powerful tools for financial analysis and strategic communication in the nonprofit sector
Links
Tinashe Chigede on LinkedIn
Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn
GrowCFO Mentoring
Timestamps
0:02:47 Introduction to SOS Children’s Villages USA mission and global impact serving 2.5 million children annually
0:05:21 Tinashe’s educational background and 15+ years in nonprofit finance, plus personal connection to SOS schools
0:28:39 Overcoming imposter syndrome and personal growth from beneficiary to organizational leader
0:06:43 Role evolution from operational focus to strategic financial leadership and board communication
0:15:00 Funding diversification strategies including government funding and donor relationship management
0:25:30 Key performance indicators balancing fundraising ROI with mission-driven outcomes
Find out more about GrowCFO
If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode.GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here.
You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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#247 Why Tech Talent Can Supercharge Your Finance Team Jay Majeske, Founder, Stalliant

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#245 Practical uses of AI in Finance Gilles Bonelli, Founder, CEO, SEE THE NEXT MOVE

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#244 The Strategic CFO in the Nonprofit World Olaide Olunloyo, Head of Finance, Jesus House

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#243 How To Get Your Team Finance Fit: Why Finance Must Evolve Now with Melanie Coeshott, GrowCFO Facilitator

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#242 What Makes a Great CFO Mentor with Jen Burton, Mentor, GrowCFO

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24min
August 05, 2025#245 Practical uses of AI in Finance Gilles Bonelli, Founder, CEO, SEE THE NEXT MOVE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=las4ugear3s
https://open.spotify.com/episode/3wOUdF52mYu7TzzdsmlING
In this episode of The GrowCFO Show, Kevin Appleby engages with Gilles Bonelli, Founder and CEO of SEE THE NEXT MOVE, to explore the practical applications of AI in finance beyond the hype. Gilles, with his extensive background in management consulting and digital transformation, established his startup to help finance leaders implement meaningful AI solutions. The conversation delves into how finance professionals can leverage AI effectively across various roles and processes, with Gilles introducing his company’s 30 role-specific AI finance playbooks designed to guide implementation with the support of AI-trained subject matter experts.
The discussion examines three primary families of AI use cases in finance: personal and team productivity enhancements, entirely new capabilities enabled by AI, and process optimization. Gilles emphasizes the importance of clean data for successful AI implementation, particularly in areas like forecasting, and advocates for a structured approach that considers both process and technology. The episode also addresses persistent challenges in finance transformation that have remained largely unchanged for 25 years, questioning whether AI truly offers solutions to longstanding issues like faster month-end closing and improved forecasting.
Key topics covered:
Gilles Bonelli’s startup SEE THE NEXT MOVE cuts through AI hype by leveraging a 700-strong network of professionals to identify genuine use cases for finance functions
AI applications in finance fall into three categories: productivity enhancement, enabling new capabilities, and process optimization
Clean data is essential for successful AI implementation, particularly for advanced applications like forecasting
AI is transforming traditional finance roles, creating opportunities for more strategic business partnering and sustainability focus
Despite technological advances, many finance teams still struggle with the same challenges from 25 years ago, including month-end closing and forecasting
Links
Gilles Bonelli on LinkedIn
Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn
GrowCFO Mentoring
Timestamps
0:09:48 Gilles introduces his startup SEE THE NEXT MOVE and its mission to cut through AI hype in finance
0:11:17 Explanation of how the company leverages its professional network to identify real AI use cases
0:38:26 Discussion on whether AI can solve longstanding finance challenges like faster month-end closing
Find out more about GrowCFO
If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode.
GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here.
You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net
...more
37min
July 29, 2025#244 The Strategic CFO in the Nonprofit World Olaide Olunloyo, Head of Finance, Jesus House
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#244 The Strategic CFO in the Nonprofit World Olaide Olunloyo, Head of Finance, Jesus House
https://youtu.be/kn0jJKKF6Co
Your browser does not support the audio element.

In episode 244 of The GrowCFO Show, Kevin Appleby interviews Olaide Olunloyo, Head of Finance, Jesus House, about the strategic role of CFOs in nonprofit organizations. Olaide shares her extensive experience as the head of finance at Jesus House and its sister charity, Festival of Life, providing valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities facing finance leaders in the nonprofit sector.
Throughout the conversation, Olaide emphasizes the importance of purpose-driven leadership in nonprofit finance, highlighting how transparency, strategic thinking, and stakeholder engagement are crucial for success. She discusses the evolution of her role from operational tasks to strategic leadership, and how finance professionals in nonprofits must balance traditional financial management with impact measurement and mission fulfillment. Olaide also shares her personal journey, including the establishment of her own foundation, Precious Seeds Foundation, which supports underprivileged children in Africa.
Key topics covered:
Nonprofit finance leaders must be driven by purpose beyond financial metrics, as the sector requires a commitment to mission that transcends traditional compensation incentives
Transparency and integrity are fundamental to building trust with donors and stakeholders, requiring finance teams to develop systems that clearly track and report on restricted and unrestricted funds
The role of finance in nonprofits has evolved from purely operational to strategic, with CFOs now actively involved in grant applications, project planning, and measuring impact beyond traditional financial KPIs
Effective cash flow management is critical in nonprofits, requiring tight week-to-week planning, contingency strategies, and rolling annual planning cycles to respond to changing needs
Nonprofit CFOs must “THRIVE” by embracing Transparency, Horizontal thinking, Resilience, Integrity, Values, and Engagement to lead their organizations through uncertainty with courage, clarity, and compassion
Links
Olaide Olunloyo on LinkedIn
Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn
GrowCFO Mentoring
Timestamps
10:55 Olaide shares her journey into nonprofit finance and how purpose drives her work despite the different pay scales compared to the corporate sector
19:36 Discussion of the complex financial systems required to manage restricted and unrestricted funds in nonprofit organizations
30:15 Explanation of how finance teams collaborate with community and fundraising teams on grant applications and project implementation
35:40 Insights into measuring project impact beyond traditional financial metrics using pre- and post-project surveys
49:09 Olaide discusses balancing her full-time role with running her personal foundation through strategic delegation and focus
50:52 Introduction of the “THRIVE” framework for nonprofit finance leaders, emphasizing transparency, horizontal thinking, resilience, integrity, values, and engagement
Find out more about GrowCFO
If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode.
GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here.
You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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46min
July 22, 2025#243 How To Get Your Team Finance Fit: Why Finance Must Evolve Now with Melanie Coeshott, GrowCFO Facilitator
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#243 How To Get Your Team Finance Fit: Why Finance Must Evolve Now with Melanie Coeshott, GrowCFO Facilitator
https://youtu.be/kST0q4krSxs
Your browser does not support the audio element.

In this insightful episode of The GrowCFO Show, host Kevin Appleby welcomes Melanie Coeshott, a GrowCFO Facilitator, to discuss the concept of “Finance Fit” – a framework designed to help finance teams prepare for their next evolutionary chapter. Melanie introduces her innovative F-I-T mnemonic, which stands for Future-oriented, Innovative, and Thriving, providing a structured approach for finance professionals to adapt to changing business landscapes.
The conversation explores how finance teams can shift from their traditional backward-looking roles to become more proactive, creative partners in business decision-making. Kevin and Melanie discuss the challenges finance professionals face in making this transition, including mindset barriers, change fatigue, and the need for leadership support. They emphasize that becoming “Finance Fit” requires not only technical skill development but also personal growth, relationship building, and finding fulfillment in one’s work.
Key topics covered:
The “Finance Fit” concept represents a significant mindset shift for finance professionals, requiring them to balance their traditional reporting responsibilities with forward-looking strategic contributions
Innovation in finance doesn’t necessarily mean radical changes but can involve small, incremental improvements that collectively drive significant value for the business
Finance professionals often struggle with “change fatigue” and need permission from leadership to experiment, fail, and learn from their experiences
Building strong relationships across the organization is crucial for finance teams to effectively contribute to business transformation
Personal development and job satisfaction are essential components of the “Thriving” element, with tools like StrengthsFinder helping finance professionals identify and leverage their natural talents

Links
Melanie Coeshott on LinkedIn
Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn
GrowCFO Mentoring
Timestamps
0:04:45 Introduction to the “Finance Fit” concept and explanation of the F-I-T mnemonic
0:12:30 Discussion of the challenges finance professionals face in becoming more future-oriented
0:18:15 Exploration of innovation in finance and overcoming resistance to change
0:27:45 The importance of thriving as finance professionals through resilience and relationship building
0:35:20 Strategies for improving job satisfaction and playing to strengths in finance roles
0:42:32 Next steps for developing and implementing the Finance Fit framework

Find out more about GrowCFO
If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode.
GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here.
You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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#247 Why Tech Talent Can Supercharge Your Finance Team Jay Majeske, Founder, Stalliant

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the integration of technology talent into finance teams is no longer a luxury but…

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#246 The Nonprofit CFO Playbook: Strategy, Stewardship, and Scale Tinashe Chigede, Director of Finance and Administration, SOS Children’s Villages USA

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email #246 The Nonprofit CFO Playbook: Strategy, Stewardship, and Scale Tinashe Chigede, Director of Finance and…

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#245 Practical uses of AI in Finance Gilles Bonelli, Founder, CEO, SEE THE NEXT MOVE

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Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email #244 The Strategic CFO in the Nonprofit World Olaide Olunloyo, Head of Finance, Jesus House…

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#243 How To Get Your Team Finance Fit: Why Finance Must Evolve Now with Melanie Coeshott, GrowCFO Facilitator

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#242 What Makes a Great CFO Mentor with Jen Burton, Mentor, GrowCFO

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36min
July 15, 2025#242 What Makes a Great CFO Mentor with Jen Burton, Mentor, GrowCFO
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#242 What Makes a Great CFO Mentor with Jen Burton, Mentor, GrowCFO
https://youtu.be/xMVa9RiS_pI
Your browser does not support the audio element.

In this insightful episode of The GrowCFO Show, host Kevin Appleby interviews Jen Burton, a new mentor at GrowCFO and current Chief Financial Officer at RJE Business Interiors based in Indianapolis. Throughout their conversation, Jen shares her extensive experience spanning multiple industries including her significant 14-year tenure at Rolls Royce, where she implemented global finance shared services strategies and led successful system integrations.
The discussion explores Jen’s journey from public accounting to various CFO roles, highlighting her operational and strategic expertise. Particularly valuable is Jen’s perspective on mentorship, as she discusses how her diverse experiences – from implementing ERP systems to managing finance transformations – have shaped her approach to guiding other finance professionals. Her unique background, including her skydiving experience, provides powerful metaphors for the trust and teamwork required in effective financial leadership.
The conversation explores how finance teams can shift from their traditional backward-looking roles to become more proactive, creative partners in business decision-making. Kevin and Melanie discuss the challenges finance professionals face in making this transition, including mindset barriers, change fatigue, and the need for leadership support. They emphasize that becoming “Finance Fit” requires not only technical skill development but also personal growth, relationship building, and finding fulfillment in one’s work.
Key topics covered:
Jen identifies primarily as an operational CFO with strong process-driven and team-oriented skills, though she has significant experience in strategic roles and as a trusted advisor
Drawing from her experience implementing global finance shared services at Rolls Royce, Jen emphasizes the importance of change management and having the right people in the right roles
Jen shares personal insights about overcoming imposter syndrome, offering practical advice for new CFOs on building confidence through breaking tasks into manageable steps
The discussion explores how Jen’s skydiving experience taught valuable lessons about trust and teamwork that directly apply to financial leadership
Kevin highlights the distinction between mentoring and coaching, explaining that mentors bring valuable “war stories” and practical experience rather than just guiding mentees to find their own answers
Links
Jen Burton on LinkedIn
Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn
GrowCFO Mentoring
Timestamps
0:11:03 Introduction to Jen Burton as a new GrowCFO mentor and CFO at RJE Business Interiors
0:20:00 Discussion of different CFO types and Jen’s identification as primarily an operational CFO
0:25:15 Jen shares her skydiving experience and the parallels to teamwork in finance
0:30:45 Exploration of Jen’s experience implementing global finance shared services at Rolls Royce
0:38:20 Discussion about imposter syndrome and building confidence as a CFO
0:46:42 Kevin explains the value of mentorship and the importance of chemistry between mentor and mentee
Find out more about GrowCFO
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here.
You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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#247 Why Tech Talent Can Supercharge Your Finance Team Jay Majeske, Founder, Stalliant

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#246 The Nonprofit CFO Playbook: Strategy, Stewardship, and Scale Tinashe Chigede, Director of Finance and Administration, SOS Children’s Villages USA

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email #246 The Nonprofit CFO Playbook: Strategy, Stewardship, and Scale Tinashe Chigede, Director of Finance and…

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#245 Practical uses of AI in Finance Gilles Bonelli, Founder, CEO, SEE THE NEXT MOVE

In this episode of The GrowCFO Show, Kevin Appleby engages with Gilles Bonelli, Founder and CEO of SEE THE NEXT…

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#244 The Strategic CFO in the Nonprofit World Olaide Olunloyo, Head of Finance, Jesus House

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email #244 The Strategic CFO in the Nonprofit World Olaide Olunloyo, Head of Finance, Jesus House…

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#243 How To Get Your Team Finance Fit: Why Finance Must Evolve Now with Melanie Coeshott, GrowCFO Facilitator

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email #243 How To Get Your Team Finance Fit: Why Finance Must Evolve Now with Melanie…

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#242 What Makes a Great CFO Mentor with Jen Burton, Mentor, GrowCFO

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email #242 What Makes a Great CFO Mentor with Jen Burton, Mentor, GrowCFO Your browser does…
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32min
July 08, 2025#241 Why Risk Management Is Getting Harder with Chris Wright, Managing Director, Protiviti
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#241 Why Risk Management Is Getting Harder with Chris Wright, Managing Director, Protiviti
https://youtu.be/LqF4t5IT0n8
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In this episode of The GrowCFO Show, host Kevin Appleby speaks with Chris Wright, Managing Director at Protiviti and leader of their global finance transformation solution. The conversation explores Protiviti’s comprehensive risk survey, highlighting the key risks companies are facing in the current economic climate. Chris provides valuable insights into how CFOs and finance leaders should approach risk acknowledgment, evaluation, and mitigation in the coming year.
The discussion covers several critical risk areas, including economic conditions and inflation pressures, labor and talent shortages, cybersecurity concerns, and emerging risks associated with AI implementation. Chris emphasizes the importance of CFOs developing “muscle memory” for frequent re-forecasting due to economic uncertainties, while also highlighting how AI can help address labor shortages by automating mundane tasks and enriching the work experience of finance professionals.
Key topics covered:
Economic conditions, including inflation pressures, represent the top risk concern for companies, requiring CFOs to develop stronger forecasting capabilities
Labor shortages in finance are driving increased costs and creating challenges in hiring and retention
AI offers significant benefits for finance functions, including cost savings and improved efficiency in areas like cash application and payables
Cybersecurity remains a persistent concern despite improvements in system security
Emerging risks from AI implementation include data quality issues, over-reliance, and potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities
Links
Chris Wright on LinkedIn
Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn
GrowCFO Mentoring
Timestamps
0:11:15 Chris Wright introduces himself and his role at Protiviti
0:25:19 Analysis of economic conditions and inflation as top risks
0:34:47 Exploration of labor and talent shortages in finance
0:42:13 Examination of AI benefits and implementation in finance functions
0:50:39 Discussion of cybersecurity risks and cloud computing challenges
0:56:51 Conversation about emerging risks associated with AI implementation
Find out more about GrowCFO
If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode.
GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here.
You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

Podcast: Play in new window | Download
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#246 The Nonprofit CFO Playbook: Strategy, Stewardship, and Scale Tinashe Chigede, Director of Finance and Administration, SOS Children’s Villages USA

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Podcast
#244 The Strategic CFO in the Nonprofit World Olaide Olunloyo, Head of Finance, Jesus House

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#243 How To Get Your Team Finance Fit: Why Finance Must Evolve Now with Melanie Coeshott, GrowCFO Facilitator

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#242 What Makes a Great CFO Mentor with Jen Burton, Mentor, GrowCFO

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33min
July 01, 2025#240 Scaling from Startup to 80+ Employees: CFO Lessons in Fast Growth with Melissa Hurrington, CFO & VP of Operations, Premier Claims
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dsa5QZtXo50
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2axThM3x9wuvBPGhK9wmza
In this compelling episode of The GrowCFO Show, Kevin Appleby interviews Melissa Hurrington, CFO and VP of Operations at Premier Claims. The conversation explores the critical challenges and valuable lessons learned during Melissa’s seven-year journey scaling Premier Claims from a four-person startup to an organization with over 80 employees and a 44,000 square foot corporate headquarters.
The episode delves into Melissa’s authentic leadership approach and how she has built a strong personal brand separate from her corporate identity. Melissa shares candid insights about overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of vulnerability in leadership, and how she has navigated the complexities of rapid organizational growth while maintaining her authentic self. Her experiences provide valuable guidance for finance leaders managing similar growth trajectories and those looking to develop their personal brand alongside their professional role.
Key topics covered:
Melissa’s journey from being employee number four at Premier Claims to leading the company through exponential growth and the acquisition of a large corporate headquarters
The importance of separating personal brand from corporate identity and building a legacy beyond professional titles
How vulnerability and authenticity on LinkedIn helped Melissa connect with a broader audience and inspire others in the finance community
Strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and gaining confidence as a leader in high-growth environments
The value of peer networks and learning from other CFOs when navigating the challenges of scaling a business
Links
Melissa Hurrington on LinkedIn
Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn
GrowCFO Mentoring
Timestamps
0:11:43 Melissa introduces herself and Premier Claims, describing the company’s growth from a startup with four employees to purchasing a 44,000 square foot corporate headquarters
0:31:49 Melissa discusses the importance of building her personal brand separate from her corporate identity and not being defined by her title
0:35:20 Discussion about using LinkedIn as a platform for authentic leadership and how vulnerability in posts has resonated with others
0:42:15 Melissa shares her experience with imposter syndrome and how she overcame it by connecting with other finance leaders
0:48:30 The importance of peer networks for CFOs and how they help combat isolation in leadership positions
0:54:13 Melissa reveals her future plans, including writing a book and continuing to grow Premier Claims while developing her leadership team
Find out more about GrowCFO
If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode.
GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here.
You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net
...more
43min
June 24, 2025#239 How to Fund a Fast-Growing B2B SaaS Startup with Janelle Gorman, CFO, York IE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xp4amxAIoUM
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Qwxrp77mQV0CvmHThso7C
In this insightful episode of The GrowCFO Show, host Kevin Appleby explores the critical topic of funding fast-growing B2B SaaS startups with Janelle Gorman, CFO at York IE. Securing appropriate funding remains one of the most significant challenges for SaaS founders, particularly in today’s fluctuating investment landscape. Understanding the criteria investors use and developing effective fundraising strategies can make the difference between startup success and failure.
Janelle Gorman brings her extensive experience as a CFO with high-growth subscription model companies and her current role at York IE, an early-stage investment firm that has deployed $60 million across approximately 60 companies. The conversation provides valuable insights into investment criteria, fundraising strategies, and the importance of product-market fit. Janelle also discusses York IE’s unique approach to supporting founders through both investment and services designed to help companies scale effectively.
Key topics covered:
York IE’s dual business model as both an investment firm and service provider for early-stage companies
Critical investment criteria including the importance of the founding team and demonstrating product-market fit
Effective fundraising strategies and the challenges of raising capital in the current market
The Tech Women Invest initiative aimed at increasing female participation in investing
Pragmatic approaches to growth and resource management for SaaS startups
Links
Janelle Gorman on LinkedIn
Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn
GrowCFO Mentoring
Timestamps
0:04:24 Introduction to Janelle Gorman and her role as CFO at York IE
0:13:15 Explanation of York IE’s business model and investment approach
0:18:30 Discussion of investment criteria and the importance of the founding team
0:22:45 Insights on fundraising strategies and market conditions for 2025
0:27:38 The importance of speed in implementing solutions and demonstrating value
0:33:49 Future outlook for York IE and the investment landscape
Find out more about GrowCFO
If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode.
GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here.
You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net
...more
36min

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