The FP&A Guy Network

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with financial educator and author Brian Feroldi. They discuss the fundamentals of stock investing, financial modeling, and how to identify high-quality companies. Brian shares insights from his investing journey, his investing checklist, and his thoughts on valuation, competitive advantages, and the role of financial models in investment decisions.

Brian Feroldi is a financial educator, investor, and author dedicated to demystifying the stock market. With nearly two decades of investing experience, Brian has written over 3,000 articles on stocks, personal finance, and investing. His best-selling book “Why Does the Stock Market Go Up?” explains market fundamentals in simple terms. Through his YouTube channel, social media presence, and educational content, Brian helps investors make smarter decisions by focusing on business quality, valuation, and long-term investing strategies.

Expect to Learn:

• Why financial models depend on good assumptions and how they can be manipulated
• The biggest mistakes investors make and how to avoid them
• How Brian analyzes financial statements and what metrics he prioritizes
• The five key types of competitive advantages (EMOTs) in business
• How to build an investing checklist to guide stock selection

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “When I invest, I’m looking for businesses that can outperform even the most bullish expectations.”
• “Understanding where a company is in its business lifecycle is critical to valuation.”
• “The biggest mistake people make is using the wrong valuation model for the wrong type of company.”

Brian’s emphasis on having a structured investing checklist, focusing on competitive advantages, and choosing the right valuation method for the right stage of a company’s lifecycle highlights the importance of strategy over speculation. If you're looking to improve your investing game, start by educating yourself, refining your process, and remembering that patience often wins the race.

Follow Brian:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianferoldi/
• Website - https://www.brianferoldi.com/
• Email - [email protected]
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/brianferoldiyt
• Book - https://a.co/d/3gS5JZL

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: 

[01:02] - Introduction to Guest Brian Feroldi

[06:35] - Brian’s Investing Journey and Early Mistakes

[10:19] - Brian’s Checklist for Evaluating Companies

[15:41] - The Financial Statement Analysis

[20:24] - Competitive Advantages (EMOTs)

[29:50] - Advice to Begin Investing in the Market

[31:20] - Common Investor Mistakes 

[33:51] - Valuation Models & Growth Cycles 

[41:36] - Final Advice & Book Recommendations 

[42:55] - Where to Find Brian

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, known as "The FP&A Guy," welcomes returning guest Ron Monteiro. Ron is a seasoned finance professional turned author who shares highlights from his new book, Love Mondays!, which looks into finding joy in your work life, particularly in the finance and FP&A sectors. Together, they explore how mindset, workplace culture, and personal development play pivotal roles in career satisfaction.

Ron Monteiro is a finance veteran with over 20 years of experience in FP&A roles at companies like Kraft, Campbell Soup, and Kruger Products. He has served as VP of Finance and is now an entrepreneur focused on teaching storytelling and communication in finance. Ron's journey from a shy, anxious teenager in Kenya to leading meetings with CEOs is a testament to his growth and resilience. His latest book, Love Mondays!, aims to help people across all professions find joy in their work and personal lives.

Expect to Learn:

• The story behind Love Mondays! and how Ron transitioned from corporate finance to author.
• Why attitude and environment are equally important in finding fulfillment at work.
• Practical steps to identify your purpose using frameworks like Ikigai.
• How networking and mentorship can transform your career trajectory.
• Strategies to avoid burnout in demanding FP&A roles and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “A boss can make or break your experience early in your career, but as you grow, it’s the culture and mentors that shape you.”
• “Gratitude is a game-changer. It’s hard to be unhappy when you’re focused on what’s going well.”
• “Surround yourself with people who uplift you. The right network can open doors you didn’t even know existed.”

It’s clear that loving your work and yes, even your Mondays is about more than just the role you’re in. It’s about your mindset, your environment, and the intentional steps you take toward fulfillment. Whether you're deep in FP&A or exploring a completely different path, Ron’s four-step framework offers a roadmap to not just surviving your workweek but truly thriving in it.

The AFP FP&A Forum:

The Association for Financial Professionals FP&A Forum, March 17–19 in Austin, is the must-attend event for finance professionals seeking sales-free, expert-led insights on AI, process efficiency and strategic planning. With 18+ actionable sessions and a community of peers, this forum is all about real learning, no fluff—join us and take your finance game to the next level.

Explore the agenda: https://bit.ly/40W1eCh

Use the code FPAGuy2025 for $200 off: https://bit.ly/40Cts3B

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Follow Ron:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronmonteiro18/

Check out Book: Love Mondays! - https://lovemondaysbook.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

[01:29] - Introduction to the Episode & Guest

[02:12] - Ron's Journey: From Kenya to Finance Leadership

[04:12] - Inspiration Behind the Book - Love Mondays!

[05:13] - Do Finance Professionals Love Mondays?

[07:55] - The Role of Bosses and Company Culture

[10:09] - The Power of Networking and Building Career Resilience

[14:08] - Burnout in FP&A and Taking Control

[19:06] - The Four-Step Framework to Love Mondays!

[30:23] - Practical Advice for Career Shifts

[43:57] - Final Thoughts & Where to Find Love Mondays!

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper sit down with Ben DeBow who is a trailblazer in technology efficiency and sustainability. Ben is at the forefront of helping businesses optimize their tech investments while balancing environmental impacts. His book, End of Abundance in Tech (Forbes Books, 2023), challenges conventional IT practices and advocates for a more sustainable, efficient approach to technology.

Ben is a serial entrepreneur, author, and advocate for leveraging technology efficiently and sustainably. Through his companies, Fortified Data and Fortified, he helps organizations streamline data management and tech investments. Ben also hosts the Tech Evaluation podcast, where he discusses pressing tech challenges with industry leaders. With dual degrees in Information Systems and Accounting from the University of Cincinnati, Ben bridges the gap between finance and technology, offering unique insights into how organizations can thrive in the digital age.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How technology spending has shifted from 2-3% of revenue to a major line item in company budgets.
• The concept of “tech debt” and how it silently eats into company resources.
• Why understanding the true cost of digital services is critical for CFOs.
• The environmental impact of AI and cloud computing, and how efficiency can mitigate it.
• Practical strategies for aligning IT and finance teams for better ROI on tech investments.

Ben’s knowledge highlights the importance of adopting an efficiency mindset, not just to control budgets, but to create sustainable, long-term value. By aligning IT strategies with business goals and fostering better communication between finance and tech teams, organizations can optimize their technology investments without compromising growth or sustainability.

Follow Ben:

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

Website - https://bendebow.com/

Company - https://fortified.com/

End of Abundance in Tech - https://a.co/d/iu0FqG0

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:

[01:53] Ben DeBow’s background

[04:44] The Rising Cost of Technology

[07:12] Inefficiencies in IT Systems

[11:43] Subscription Creep & SaaS Spending

[14:12] Aligning Tech with Business Value

[19:11] Environmental Impact of Technology

[28:08] Fortified Data & SaaS Solutions

[30:07] Future Trends in Tech Efficiency

[34:51] Fun Questions for Ben

[39:30] Conclusion and Final thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, looks into the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence on financial modeling. The discussion explores how AI is reshaping the industry, the challenges and opportunities it brings, and what financial modelers can expect in the coming years.

Kenny Whitelaw-Jones who is the founding partner at Gridlines joins the show. As a leading expert in project finance modeling, Kenny has played a pivotal role in shaping financial modeling standards globally. With over a decade of experience training blue-chip clients and developing complex models, he brings invaluable insights into how AI is poised to revolutionize financial modeling.

Expect to Learn:

• How AI is expected to significantly impact financial modeling, with Kenny's recent industry survey.
• The current limitations of AI tools like ChatGPT in financial modeling and where they excel.
• How project finance modeling differs from other types of financial modeling, and why Kenny finds it exciting.
• The importance of soft skills and communication in the evolving role of financial modelers.
• The future skills financial modelers will need to stay ahead in an AI-driven world.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "In the future, the routine tasks will be automated, and modelers will focus more on strategic, value-adding activities."
• "Being a good modeler isn’t just about Excel skills. It’s about interpreting data and communicating results effectively."
• "The change AI brings is inevitable because as soon as we can imagine it, someone will figure out how to make it happen."

As AI continues to evolve, it's clear that financial modeling is on the brink of a major transformation. Kenny Whitelaw-Jones shared not just the technical impacts we can expect from AI, but also how the role of financial modelers will shift toward strategic thinking, business interpretation, and effective communication. While tools like ChatGPT and Copilot are making waves, it’s the human element that will remain irreplaceable.

Follow Kenny:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennywhitelawjones/
• Website - https://www.gridlines.com/
• Email - [email protected]

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:

[01:46] – Meet Kenny Whitelaw-Jones

[02:35] – The Worst Financial Model Encountered

[05:43] – Why Project Finance and Renewables?

[10:04] – Survey for AI in Financial Modeling

[14:58] – ChatGPT vs. Copilot

[18:57] – Excel Innovations & the Future of Modeling

[22:34] – The Future of Financial Modeling with AI

[26:50] – Soft Skills & the Evolving Role of Financial Modelers

[33:51] – Rapid-Fire Round

[40:51] – Life Beyond Financial Modeling

[43:48] – Final Thoughts & How to Connect with Kenny

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst talks with Andrew Hull, a seasoned finance leader in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. They explore the role of FP&A professionals in driving business results, navigating inflation, and transitioning from traditional budgeting to impactful analytics.

Andrew Hull is a financial executive with over two decades of experience in CPG. Currently the Vice President of Finance at UNFI Canada, Andrew has a proven track record of partnering with business leaders to deliver results through strategic insights and principled financial analysis. With a competitive spirit and passion for team leadership, Andrew shares his unique approach to FP&A, analytics, and the importance of actionable storytelling.

Expect to Learn:

• The three pillars of great FP&A: technical skills, storytelling, and actionable decisions.
• Why Andrew advocates for changing FP&A to “FA&P” and focusing more on analytics.
• Lessons learned from leading finance during the pandemic.
• Key metrics for success in the distribution industry, including variable margin and truck utilization.
• Practical advice for accelerating budget processes and focusing on analytics that drive results.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "The most value FP&A can add is when we take complex data and distill it into actionable insights." - Andrew Hull
• "Variable margin is the backbone of understanding financial performance in a distribution business."- Andrew Hull
• "A one-page visual with clear recommendations is the best way to communicate with executives."- Andrew Hull

In this episode, Andrew Hull shared a wealth of knowledge for FP&A professionals including rethinking the role of analytics to the importance of actionable storytelling. His practical advice on managing inflation, leading during a crisis, and accelerating the budgeting process offers valuable lessons.

FP&A Your Way with Paris Technologies:

PARIS Technologies delivers an enterprise planning platform in Excel, which makes FP&A work a breeze! Centralize and consolidate cloud data into a self-service, collaborative modeling environment featuring the everyday spreadsheet. Visit PARIS Tech for FP&A Your Way!

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Follow Andrew:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewhull4/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

Enroll for Wharton Online Certificate Program:

Sign up for the 8 week online financial planning & analysis certificate program by Wharton Online and learn the art of forecasting, analysis, business partnering and financial storytelling: https://bit.ly/4debs46 Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 to save $300.

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

[01:59] - Meet Andrew Hull

[02:50] - Redefining Great FP&A

[06:46] - Career Highlights in CPG

[10:35] - Leading Finance at UNFI Canada

[18:55] - Managing Inflation with Analytics

[22:24] - The Art of Storytelling in FP&A

[35:47] - Revolutionizing the Budget Process

[51:20] - Beyond Work: Hobbies and Passions

[58:07] - Closing Thoughts

In this highlights episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper discuss generative AI in finance and accounting with Jason Pikoos. As industries adopt AI for efficiency and innovation, they must also understand the challenges like audit readiness, compliance, and explainability. Our guest, Jason Pikoos, unpacks the complexities of using AI in financial operations and what it takes to align emerging technologies with rigorous audit standards.

This episode focuses on the need for finance professionals to stay informed and proactive as the industry grapples with the opportunities and risks of AI. AI Technology continues to revolutionize finance, but auditors face an uphill battle in adapting to this unpredictable and rapidly evolving technology. The black-box nature of AI, combined with its non-deterministic outputs, challenges traditional auditing methods that rely on consistency and explainability. Without clear guidance from regulatory bodies like the PCAOB, companies are left navigating a landscape where the rules are yet to be written.

Expect to Learn

• Why generative AI presents unique challenges for audit and compliance.
• How companies can implement AI while staying audit-ready and minimizing risk.
• The importance of “reperformance” and ongoing validation for AI systems.
• Real-world examples of companies navigating AI implementation in finance.
• Predictions for the future of audits, including real-time monitoring powered by AI.

Jason Pikoos emphasizes the importance of cautious adoption, ongoing validation, and strategic planning to bridge the gap until formal frameworks are established. While the potential of AI to transform audits is undeniable, the journey will require auditors, companies, and regulators to work together to define how trust and compliance are maintained in this new era.

Follow Jason:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-pikoos/

Connor Groups - https://p.connorgp.com/l/

Governance Framework - https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/

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

Follow Glenn:

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

Follow Paul:

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

Follow QFlow.AI:

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

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[00:09] – Challenges of Using AI in Auditing

[01:11] – Current Gaps in Audit Guidance for AI

[02:13] – The Role of Reperformance in AI Validation

[03:28] – Balancing AI Adoption with Audit Risks

[04:20] – Lessons from Real-World AI Implementation

[06:15] – The Future of Finance and AI

[06:32] – Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst aka The FP&A Guy looks into Excel expertise with Joel Steendam. Joel shares his global experiences, technical know-how, and practical advice to improve Excel proficiency and financial modeling outcomes. Their conversation covers Excel tools, design principles, and the importance of curiosity and cultural awareness in professional success.

Joel Steendam is a global Excel expert and educator with a passion for helping professionals create better financial models. As a key member of PerfectXL, he develops software to improve spreadsheet quality, mitigate risks, and promote best practices in Excel. With a multicultural background and years of experience in financial modeling, Joel blends technical expertise with a deep understanding of how culture influences collaboration and problem-solving.

Expect to Learn:

• Worst financial models and how to fix common spreadsheet issues.
• Why named ranges and documentation are essential in financial modeling.
• How Joel’s multicultural upbringing has shaped his professional approach and success.
• Practical advice on staying curious and learning new Excel skills.
• The role of tools like PerfectXL in auditing and improving spreadsheet quality for financial modeling.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Even best practices, when misused, can have a massive negative impact on Excel models."
• "PerfectXL’s tools focus on mitigating risks and improving model quality by emphasizing structure and consistency."
• "If you build something on Monday that you don’t understand by Wednesday, you’re not building the right thing."

Joel Steendam shared his expertise on improving Excel models, staying curious, and navigating the challenges of financial modeling. Financial models are powerful decision-making tools, but they’re only as effective as their structure and design allow them to be. Joel provided invaluable lessons for both beginners and experienced modelers on structure, documentation, and tools.

Follow Joel:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-steendam/
• Website - https://www.perfectxl.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:

[01:49] - Introduction and Meet the Guest

[02:49] - Horror Stories in Financial Models

[04:28] - Key Takeaways from Bad Models

[06:45] - Joel’s Global Background

[10:18] - PerfectXL and Best Practices in Excel

[14:56] - Staying Updated on Excel

[18:03] - Advice for Beginners in Excel

[29:14] - Balancing Excel’s Flexibility and Risks

[36:12] - Fun Projects in Excel

[38:38] - Rapid-Fire Questions

[48:26] - Final Advice for Financial Modelers

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, aka "The FP&A Guy," provides a complete guide to FP&A certifications and programs. He offers valuable information into their structure, benefits, costs, and ideal candidates. The conversation covers leading certifications like the FPAC by AFP, Wharton’s FP&A Certificate Program, FMI’s Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM), and more. Paul provides discount codes for many of the programs in the show notes below. You can also find a complete written analysis of each certificate on his website: FP&A Certifications — The FP&A Guy

With a career marked by expertise in FP&A, Paul answers what certifications can help advance your career in FP&A. Paul compares these options, emphasizing their focus on technical skills, networking opportunities, and career applicability. He also shares personal experiences with several programs, highlighting their strengths and areas for improvement.

Expect to Learn:

• A detailed comparison of leading FP&A certifications.
• Key differences between training programs and certification exams.
• Insights into lesser-known but impactful programs like the Certified Global FP&A Professional.
• Recommendations for financial modeling programs, including those from FMI and CFI.
• Tips for navigating costs, preparation, and maximizing the value of FP&A certifications.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "Certifications are not mandatory, but they can help you stand out in a competitive field."
• "Wharton’s FP&A Certificate Program is a great option for building both technical and interpersonal skills."
• "Most certifications will require a significant time investment, so choose the one that aligns with your goals."

Certifications are valuable but they’re just one part of your professional journey. The real goal is to continuously enhance your skills, adapt to industry changes, and become an indispensable business partner. If you have questions or need guidance, feel free to reach out at https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications

FP&A Your Way with Paris Technologies:

PARIS Technologies delivers an enterprise planning platform in Excel, which makes FP&A work a breeze! Centralize and consolidate cloud data into a self-service, collaborative modeling environment featuring the everyday spreadsheet. Visit PARIS Tech for FP&A Your Way!

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Explore the resources and discounts available:

Certified Corporate FP&A Professional (FPAC) from Association of Financial Professionals (AFP) - FPAC Program

• The longest-established FP&A credential that validates your expertise. Ideal for early-career professionals or those transitioning into FP&A. 
• 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/

• A cohort-based training program designed to build technical and soft skills, with networking opportunities and industry-leading instructors.
• Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 – $300 Program Discount

Global Certified FP&A Professional (CGFPA) from FP&A Professionals Institute (FPI) - Certified Global FP&A Professional (CGFPA) | FP&A Professionals

• A six-month, live coaching program ideal for finance and accounting professionals. Accessible globally, with a strong foundation in core FP&A skills.
• Use Code: FPAGUY - $200 Program Discount

Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM)  by Financial Modeling Institute - Financial Modeler's Corner Podcast - FMI

• Certification focused on building integrated, best-practice financial models. Recognized as a gold standard for demonstrating modeling proficiency.
• Use Code: Podcast for a 15% Program Discount

Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) Programs

• The program offers certifications such as the Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA) and FP&A specialization. These focus on modeling and technical skills with flexible self-paced learning.
• Check it out at https://corporatefinancialinstitute.pxf.io/c/6003589/1951334/23723

Financial Planning & Analysis Modeling (CFPAM) Program from Wall Street Prep - Certification in Financial Planning & Analysis Modeling (CFPAM™) | Wall Street Prep

• A cost-effective, self-paced program emphasizing budgeting and three-statement modeling. Best suited for those wanting targeted technical training.

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

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

[01:57] - Overview of FP&A Certifications

[03:26] - Certified Corporate FP&A Professional (FPAC)

[12:42] - Wharton FP&A Certificate Program

[17:50] - Certified Global FP&A Professional (CGFPA)

[21:17] - Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) FP&A Programs

[28:03] - Wall Street Prep’s Financial Planning & Analysis Modeling (CFPAM)

[31:38] - Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) by FMI

[37:08] - How to Choose Certification vs. Training

[40:02] - Final Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of the Future Finance Show, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper check out  the transformative potential of AI and its implications for businesses, especially in finance and compliance. With guest Jason Pikoos, the discussion unpacks the opportunities and risks associated with adopting generative AI. Jason shares his experience developing frameworks that guide companies in responsibly leveraging AI while maintaining agility and compliance.

Jason Pikoos is a seasoned expert in accounting and operational transformation and has over 18 years of experience working with high-growth and tech-driven companies. Currently at The Connor Group, Jason has supported over 40 businesses in IPO preparations and implementing transformative governance systems. He has co-authored a framework addressing the challenges and risks of AI adoption. Jason’s extensive background includes roles at McAfee, KPMG, and collaborations with industry giants like Google and Sony.

In this episode, you will discover:

• Why AI governance can accelerate adoption instead of slowing it down.
• The risks and opportunities in using generative AI for finance and accounting.
• How companies can prepare for audits and compliance in the AI era.
• The role of AI in revolutionizing business processes through advanced automation.
• Practical advice for businesses to integrate AI thoughtfully without jeopardizing compliance.

The intersection of AI, governance, and business transformation is both exciting and complex. By embracing thoughtful governance, companies can not only mitigate risks but also unlock AI’s full potential to transform finance and operations. The key lies in understanding the balance between control and innovation, ensuring AI adds measurable value to your organization.

Follow Jason:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-pikoos/

Connor Groups - https://p.connorgp.com/l/

Governance Framework - https://uploads-ssl.webflow.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:

[01:31] Introduction and Opening Thoughts

[02:37] Meet Jason Pikoos

[04:09] Why AI Governance Matters

[06:10] Driving Innovation with Governance

[09:30] Challenges of Generative AI in Public Companies

[14:19] Reperformance and Ongoing Validation

[17:59] AI Adoption in Finance

[25:02] The Future of Auditing with AI

[32:17] What’s Next in Advanced Automation

[41:46] Fun Insights and Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Tim Vipond who is a seasoned finance professional and co-founder of the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI). They discuss financial modeling nightmares, strategy’s vital role in modeling, and the importance of avoiding shortcuts. Tim also shares his unique entrepreneurial journey and offers practical advice for improving modeling and strategic decision-making.

Tim Vipond began his career as an investment banking analyst and later transitioned to wealth management, corporate development, and e-commerce finance. As the co-founder of the Corporate Finance Institute, Tim has trained over 2 million students and introduced practical certifications that reshape how finance professionals develop their skills. Tim’s blend of financial expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and focus on strategy makes him a compelling guest for this conversation.

Expect to Learn:

• How to avoid and learn from common financial modeling mistakes.
• Why aligning financial models with business strategy is critical.
• The journey of building the Corporate Finance Institute and insights into e-learning success.
• The role of assumptions, execution, and scenario analysis in effective modeling.
• Tim’s advice on combining unique skills to propel your career.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Never take shortcuts in your modeling. It’s tempting when you’re under pressure, but those shortcuts will come back to bite you later.”
• “Combining two or more unique skills is the best way to get significantly ahead in your career. It’s where you stand out and add the most value.”
• “Many scenarios in models are not grounded in strategy. Thoughtful, realistic scenarios tied to strategic goals are what add real value.”

Tim Vipond highlighted the interplay between technical mastery and strategic insight in financial modeling. Tim provided actionable advice on avoiding pitfalls, validating assumptions, and connecting models to overarching business goals. His emphasis on skill stacking and execution underpins the value of continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly evolving field.

Follow Tim:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timvipond/
• Website - https://vipond.com/
• Company - https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/

Follow Paul: 

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

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In today’s episode:

[02:53] Financial Modeling Horror Stories

[06:03] Building the Corporate Finance Institute

[11:18] The Role of Strategy in Modeling

[19:07] Execution and Modeling Feasibility

[22:11] Scenarios and Sensitivity Analysis

[30:52] Tim’s Favorite Investments and Skill Stacking

[34:48] Unique Modeling Stories

[36:06] Rapid Fire Questions

[41:14] Closing Thoughts and Advice