The FP&A Guy Network

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes David Perla, Vice Chair of Burford Capital and a pioneering voice in the legal finance industry. David discusses how financial modeling plays a central role in evaluating and funding high-stakes litigation, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how his team monetizes legal risk with structured financial strategies. From managing long litigation timelines to leveraging Monte Carlo simulations and AI tools, David shares how Burford builds sophisticated models to guide investment decisions and mitigate risk.

David Perla has an extraordinary background at the intersection of law, entrepreneurship, and finance. He’s a former president of Bloomberg Law, co-founder of legal outsourcing pioneer Pangea3 (acquired by Thomson Reuters), and was named a top 50 innovator by The American Lawyer. At Burford Capital, David is helping reshape how the legal world accesses and deploys capital.

Expect to Learn:

• What legal finance actually is and how it works
• How Burford structures deals and evaluates legal risk
• The modeling techniques used to forecast legal outcomes
• Why Monte Carlo simulations are central to their underwriting process
• How AI is used (and misused) in legal finance

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Behavior that’s irrational but predictable? We can model that. Idiosyncratic behavior? We avoid it.” - David Perla
• Modeling helps us decide not only how to price a deal, but how to structure incentives.” - David Perla
• Everything we do depends on modeling.” - David Perla

David Perla gave us a fascinating look into the world of legal finance and how modeling plays a critical role in managing complex litigation risk. His knowledge revealed how finance principles, AI tools, and human judgment all intersect in this unique investment space. From non-recourse funding to Monte Carlo simulations, this episode showcased the depth of modeling required in high-stakes legal decision-making.

Follow Dave:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidperla/
• Website - https://www.burfordcapital.com/

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode: 

[01:12] - Welcome to the episode

[03:37] - Defining Legal Finance

[04:53] - Typical Legal Finance Timeline

[07:56] - Structuring Deals with Non-Recourse Funding

[11:17] - Modeling Risk with Monte Carlo Simulations

[16:32] - High-Stakes Legal Deal Sizes

[21:34] - Predictable vs. Rational Behavior in Modeling

[26:02] - Data Transparency in Insurance vs. Legal Finance

[32:31] - Tools of the Trade: Excel, Python & More

[39:44] - Future of Excel, AI, and Model Confidence

[41:32] - Strategic Decision-Making and Wrap-Up

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 Future Finance, 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.

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.

Follow Karan:

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

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

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:

[02:08] - Introduction of Episode

[03:05] - Karan’s Journey into Pricing

[06:45] - The Global Impact of Tariffs

[12:05] - Why One-Size-Fits-All Doesn’t Work

[16:00] - Managing the Impact of Tariffs

[20:04] - Building Flexible Pricing Models

[23:09] - Transparency with Consumers

[28:46] - Short-Term vs. Long-Term Strategy

[34:34] - Cross-Department Collaboration

[39:06] - Book recommended by Karan

In this special episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, 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.

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  

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode: 

[02:08] - Introduction of Episode

[03:05] - Karan’s Journey into Pricing

[06:45] - The Global Impact of Tariffs

[12:05] - Why One-Size-Fits-All Doesn’t Work

[16:00] - Managing the Impact of Tariffs

[20:04] - Building Flexible Pricing Models

[23:09] - Transparency with Consumers

[28:46] - Short-Term vs. Long-Term Strategy

[34:34] - Cross-Department Collaboration

[39:06] - 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 of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper are joined by Joyce Li, a CFA, AI strategist, and former investor. Joyce shares her journey from managing multi-billion dollar portfolios to advising businesses on AI strategy and governance. She offers a thoughtful take on how AI is transforming decision-making, the importance of trust in technology, and why being human in a tech-driven world still matters more than ever.

Joyce Li is a CFA, board director, AI strategist, and entrepreneur with a background in managing multi-billion dollar investments and advising corporate leaders. With an MBA from Wharton and a master's in computer science, she bridges the worlds of finance and technology. Joyce is a recognized voice in AI and advises companies on how to develop practical, trusted AI strategies for long-term value.

Expect to Learn:

• How Joyce transitioned from finance and investing into AI strategy
• Why trust and governance are essential for AI adoption
• How SMBs and large companies can adopt AI more effectively
• Tips for building AI readiness in your company
• Why generative AI adoption is moving faster than past tech waves
• Why “human in the loop” matters now more than ever

Joyce Li brought clarity, experience, and a grounded view on what it really takes to adopt AI in a meaningful way. From building trust and transparency to thinking critically about end goals, her perspective helps bridge the gap between tech hype and business value. Whether you're leading a large company or a growing startup, Joyce’s insights make it clear: real AI success starts with the right questions and ends with thoughtful execution.

Follow Joyce:

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

Website - https://averanda-ai.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:

[00:00] - Intro and Guest Welcome

[01:04] - Joyce’s Shift Into AI

[03:46] - Guiding Leaders on AI Strategy

[06:42] - Lessons from an AI Startup

[09:24] - Trust and AI in Finance

[11:07] - Why Governance Matters in AI

[12:57] - Replacing Legacy Tech

[15:00] - AI Myths in Small Business

[16:32] - Enterprise Hesitation with AI

[17:58] - Speed of Generative AI Adoption

[19:53] - Final Thoughts and Takeaways

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Carl Olson, a seasoned finance leader with over two decades of experience in FP&A, consulting, and startup finance. Carl discusses the nuances of financial modeling in both startups and large companies, sharing war stories, practical frameworks, and the lessons learned from building models that drive real business decisions. Whether it's simplifying startup forecasts or navigating layers of corporate planning, Carl emphasizes the importance of context, communication, and staying aligned with business partners.

Carl Olson is a finance consultant and strategic advisor with more than 20 years of experience in FP&A, startup modeling, and enterprise finance. His background includes roles at Jamba Juice, Yelp, Unity, and several startups. Carl specializes in building operating and strategic models, guiding fundraising efforts, and helping businesses link financial modeling to real-world execution.

Expect to Learn:

• How financial models differ for startups vs. large companies
• Why listening to business partners is essential for model effectiveness
• How to test assumptions when historical data is limited
• The danger of over-automation in modeling
• What makes a model usable vs. impressive

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “If your sales model shows unrealistic rep productivity, that’s a red flag.” - Carl Olson
• “Meet your business partners where they are, not where you want them to be.” - Carl Olson
• “Use industry benchmarks, but know your secret sauce.” - Carl Olson

Carl Olson shared honest and practical insights from years of building financial models across startups and large companies. He reminded us that the real value of a model comes from how well it supports decision-making and helps the team move forward. His approach to keeping things simple, clear, and business-focused is something every finance professional can learn from.

Follow Carl:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/olsoncarl/

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376  

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode: 

[01:12] - Introduction of Episode

[02:02] - Carl’s Worst Modeling Experience

[06:43] - Rebuilding a Model from Scratch

[10:36] - Startup vs. Corporate Modeling

[12:57] - Big Data to Startup Forecasting

[15:09] - When Mistakes Go Unnoticed

[22:42] - Finding Gaps Through Modeling

[29:41] - Using Excel for Personal Life

[30:47] - Carl’s Favorite Excel Shortcuts

[33:32] - Rapid Fire: Tools, Preferences, and Advice

[36:24] - Avoiding the VBA Trap and Growing in Your Career

[40:38] - Carl’s Closing Advice for Financial Modelers

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 of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) and Glenn Hopper welcome Joyce Li, a seasoned investor, AI strategist, and entrepreneur. Joyce shares her fascinating journey from being a CFA and managing multibillion-dollar investments to transitioning into AI and tech strategy. With nearly two decades of experience, Joyce now helps board directors and business leaders develop AI strategies and governance frameworks. 

Joyce Li is a seasoned investor, entrepreneur, and AI strategist. With an MBA from Wharton and a master’s in Computer Science from the University of Virginia, Joyce has spent almost 20 years managing investments and guiding businesses in technology adoption. She now advises leaders on developing AI strategies and governance frameworks. Joyce also co-founded an AI-powered financial planning platform, where she learned the challenges and opportunities AI can bring to business.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How Joyce’s background in finance led her to focus on AI
• The real challenges businesses face when adopting AI
• Why trust is crucial when introducing AI into decision-making
• The speed at which AI is changing business models
• How to build a successful AI strategy without getting lost in the tech
• Why businesses need to focus on their goals before diving into AI tools

Joyce Li shared valuable insights on how AI is transforming business strategy and decision-making. Her experience in both finance and technology has given her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities businesses face when adopting AI. Trust, transparency, and a clear understanding of business goals are essential when integrating AI into decision-making. 

Follow Joyce:

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

Website - https://averanda-ai.com/

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

Follow Glenn:

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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:

[01:46] - Welcome to the Episode

[04:02] - Shifting Focus to AI Strategy

[10:52] - Lessons from Co-Founding an AI Platform

[12:42] - Building AI with Limited Resources

[16:12] - Generative AI and the Future of Robo-Advisors

[20:44] - AI’s Role in Startup Growth

[23:23] - Why Startups Are Winning Big Clients

[25:03] - Redesigning Workflows for the Future

[32:26] - Why Big Companies Hesitate

[38:24] - Describe AI’s Personality

[42:58] - Wrapping Up the Conversation

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Dave Hallwood, a finance director and certified financial modeler, for a practical and candid conversation about real-world modeling in the retail industry. From managing day-to-day operations in a fast-growing fashion retail group to navigating insolvency and restructuring, Dave shares the hard-earned lessons that have shaped his approach to modeling, decision-making, and leadership. 

Dave Hallwood is the Finance Director of a group of independent fashion retailers in the UK. After spending years in retail and hospitality management, Dave transitioned into finance in his 30s, becoming a fellow of ACCA and earning his Certified Financial Modeler (CFM) designation from the Financial Modeling Institute. With a passion for practical financial modeling, Dave has built and managed models for nearly every scenario a small retailer can face, from budgeting and forecasting to store openings, closings, and insolvency planning.

Expect to Learn:

• How to model retail cash flow when weather drives sales
• The importance of simplicity and storytelling in financial models
• What it’s like to manage an insolvency and restructure a business
• Why Dave believes gut instinct still plays a big role in decision-making
• How Dave uses modeling to support store openings, closures, and growth
• Practical advice for switching into a finance career later in life

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Financial models help guide the business, but people and relationships still make it work."
• "The best decision is often a balance between what the model says and what feels right."
• "No matter how great the numbers look, if your gut says no, listen."

Dave Hallwood shares what it’s really like to model for a retail business. From managing cash flow swings to making tough calls during insolvency, he brings a grounded, real-world perspective. Dave reminds us that models should support decisions, not replace them. It’s a must-listen for anyone juggling numbers and navigating uncertainty.

Follow Dave:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hallwood-fcca-cfm-87270449/

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Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   

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In today’s episode:

[01:31] - Welcome to the episode

[03:45] - Inheriting a messy Excel model

[06:17] - Why Dave switched careers in his 30s

[10:13] - Life as a finance lead in retail

[14:16] - Forecasting cash flow in a seasonal business

[18:54] - How to model each store differently

[26:58] - Lessons from an insolvency and business rescue

[32:59] - Why Dave supports the FMI community

[40:01] - Horizontal or Vertical Modeling Preferences

[42:23] - Gut vs. model: what really drives decisions

[44:36] - Closing Reflections with Dave