The FP&A Guy Network

In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, looks into the challenges and opportunities in financial planning and analysis (FP&A) within startups and high-growth companies. He is joined by Lauren Pearl who is an experienced fractional CFO and podcast host. They explore how finance professionals can thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of early-stage businesses, leveraging financial modeling, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

Lauren Pearl brings a wealth of experience in operational finance, entrepreneurship, and advisory roles. She has grown startups from concept to scale, worked as a CFO at tech companies, and now runs her own fractional CFO consultancy. Her unique background also includes hosting Growth Minded CFO, where she speaks with finance leaders about driving growth and innovation.

Expect to Learn:

• Why financial modeling is a feasibility study, not just a forecast.
• Strategies to simplify complex finance concepts for founders and non-finance professionals.
• How to craft models that focus on usability, speed, and strategic decision-making.
• The importance of understanding and addressing the unique needs of various departments.
• How listening and adapting to your audience can elevate FP&A’s impact.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “Finance isn’t just about numbers; it’s about translating those numbers into something actionable for the entire organization.” - Lauren Pearl
• “If I were to define FP&A in one sentence, it’s the financial engineering of past, present, and future decisions.” - Lauren Pearl
• “You can’t force people to care about finance, but you can present it in a way that resonates with their priorities.” - Lauren Pearl

Lauren’s emphasis on the importance of usability, communication, and empathy highlights how finance professionals can create meaningful impact. Her career journey underscores the value of adaptability and collaboration in today’s dynamic financial landscape.

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 Lauren:

Website - https://www.laurenpearlconsulting.com/newsletter

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

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

[01:36] - Introduction to the Episode

[06:40] - Lauren’s Journey to FP&A and Entrepreneurship

[09:51] - Challenges of Financial Modeling for Startups

[16:09] - Educating Founders on Finance

[25:27] - Finance as a Partner, Not Just a Function

[36:40] - Simplicity and Usability in Modeling

[39:42] - Lessons from Hosting a Podcast

[50:45] - Rethinking Budgeting for High-Growth Companies

[56:04] - Getting to Know You Segment

[01:00:05] Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

In this special solo episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst, known as the FP&A Guy, takes the spotlight to share his personal journey from a corporate financial analyst to an influential voice in financial modeling and FP&A. This episode is packed with career highlights, trends in financial modeling, and a mix of humor to kick off the new year.

With over a decade of experience in corporate FP&A, Paul is a Microsoft MVP, a globally recognized trainer, and the founder of several successful podcasts. His personal story exemplifies persistence, continuous learning, and the value of building a personal brand.

Expect to Learn:

• The career journey of Paul Barnhurst of creating a thriving business and gaining global recognition.
• Key lessons in financial modeling, including best practices in designing effective models.
• Trends shaping financial modeling and analytics for 2025, including the role of AI.
• Practical advice on building a personal brand and leveraging LinkedIn to grow professionally.
• A lighter side of finance with Paul’s humorous take on financial and Excel-related jokes.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "When I started my own business, I didn't have everything figured out, but I believed in taking the leap and figuring it out along the way."
• "The ability to build a personal brand is a career game changer, especially for financial professionals."
• "If you’re not having fun with what you do, find ways to bring your personality into your work—it makes all the difference."

Paul Barnhurst takes us on a journey through his career by highlighting the lessons he’s learned and the challenges he’s faced. With light humor and practical advice, Paul inspires listeners to embrace growth, take risks, and build their own paths to success.

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:

[01:13] - Introduction and Context

[02:14] - The Early Career Struggles

[04:50] - The Pivot to FP&A

[06:24] - Building Financial Modeling Expertise

[08:44] - Starting His Own Business

[15:54] - Career in Financial Modeling

[17:24] - Humor and Fun

[20:06] - Trends for 2025

[25:43] - Rapid Fire Financial Modeling Opinions

[28:14] - Closing Remarks

In this episode, Host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, explores the complexities of corporate spin-offs with guest Jens Gutberlet. They focus on Kenvue’s remarkable journey of separating from Johnson & Johnson with strategic reasoning and organizational transformation. This discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities that arise when creating a standalone company from a global giant.

Jens Gutberlet is a seasoned finance leader with over 15 years of experience in multinational consumer goods companies like Henkel, Edgewell, Johnson & Johnson, and now Kenvue. Based in Toronto, Jens has spearheaded major transformation projects, including two large-scale company separations. His expertise in FP&A and organizational change shines through as he shares his insights from Kenvue’s historic spin-off.

Expect to Learn:

• Why Johnson & Johnson decided to spin off Kenvue and the strategic benefits of the separation.
• The key challenges and milestones in creating a new standalone company.
• How FP&A professionals can contribute to major transformation projects.
• The importance of mindset and communication during organizational change.
• Opportunities for improvement in finance systems and processes during spin-offs.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "Understanding the 'why' behind a transformation is crucial for keeping people engaged and motivated." - Jens Gutberlet
• "Managing cultural and people aspects during transformation is often harder than tackling technology." - Jens Gutberlet
• "The key to success is breaking down massive projects into manageable, bite-sized steps." - Jens Gutberlet

Jens emphasizes the importance of communication, strategic thinking, and adaptability in navigating the complexities of organizational change. For FP&A professionals, spin-offs are a unique opportunity to shape the future of a company and build robust financial systems.

World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: 

Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Follow Jens:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jens-gutberlet/

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

[01:28] - Introduction to the Episode

[03:24] - Defining FP&A Excellence

[05:41] - Lessons from Consulting

[09:26] - Kenvue’s Creation

[17:02] - Transformation Challenges

[23:59] - Cultural Considerations

[26:44] - Technology Transformation

[33:39] - Advice for FP&A Professionals

[37:49] - Mindset for Success

[50:34] - Wrap Up and Closing Comments

In this special episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper take a reflective look back at the year 2024. They explore the biggest moments in technology and finance, share personal milestones, and make bold predictions for 2025. The conversation is an engaging mix of professional insights, personal anecdotes, and a bit of humor to ring in the new year.

Paul Barnhurst known as "The FP&A Guy," is a finance thought leader who bridges the gap between finance, technology, and strategy. Glenn Hopper: A finance professional and author focused on leveraging AI and technology in finance to drive innovation. Glenn brings expertise from a practitioner’s perspective and insights into the evolving role of technology in business.

In this episode, you will discover:

• Key technological advancements of 2024, including AI tools and quantum computing breakthroughs.
• The challenges and opportunities in integrating generative AI into financial workflows.
• Reflections on the professional and personal growth journeys of the hosts over the past year.
• Predictions for 2025 in AI, finance, and beyond, including the potential of AI agents and quantum computing.
• The evolution of tools for fractional CFOs and the future of scalable financial solutions.

Paul and Glenn explored the dynamic intersection of finance, technology, and innovation. 2025 holds the promise of even greater strides in AI, quantum computing, and tools that redefine how finance professionals work and collaborate. This episode has been a blend of reflection, insight, and a bit of fun to welcome the new year.

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:

[01:44] Introduction to the Episode

[02:44] Looking Back at 2024

[12:45] Biggest Tech Trends of 2024

[19:49] Emerging Financial Technologies

[23:06] Fractional CFO Tools

[27:21] Innovative Planning Tools.

[30:57] Predictions for 2025

[37:08] Fun with AI-Generated Songs

[44:26] Closing Remarks

In the second part of "The Great Debate," expert financial modelers from around the globe discuss controversial and thought-provoking questions about the art and science of financial modeling. The discussion focuses on the enduring relevance of Excel, the role of AI and Power BI in shaping the future of modeling. This episode highlights the nuances, complexities, and future of financial modeling as a discipline.

This episode features Giles Male, co-founder of Full Stack Modeler and an Excel MVP, Will Wardle, an independent financial modeler with over two decades of experience, Carolina Lago, founder of Classic Financial, specializing in FP&A and financial restructuring for SMEs, Hedieh Kianyfard, a project finance expert from Iran, known for her practical solutions to complex modeling challenges, Oz du Soleil, a YouTube star and Excel MVP, renowned for his engaging tutorials and insights, Rishi Sapra, a former accountant turned Power BI advocate, and David Brown, a seasoned financial modeler with 27 years of experience, excelling in blending Excel with Power BI.

Expect to Learn:

• The role of circular references in financial models.
• Why named ranges in Excel can either simplify or complicate financial models.
• The impact of AI on the future of financial modeling.
• How Power BI complements financial modeling by enhancing data visualization and storytelling.
• The debate on the most important financial statement and how it informs decision-making.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Dynamic arrays offer huge improvements, and we should aspire to use them more effectively as a community." - Giles Male
• "A three-statement model is the universal language of finance, connecting operations and strategy for decision-making." - Carolina Lago
• "Power BI complements financial models by adding context, automation, and storytelling, making it a must-learn tool." - Rishi Sapra

This episode of The Great Debate offers a lively exploration of financial modeling. The expert panelists highlight how financial modeling combines art and science, requiring technical mastery, critical thinking, and creativity. The discussions underscored the importance of balancing simplicity with complexity, leveraging technology without losing sight of foundational principles. 

Follow Giles:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/

Follow Will:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-wardle-3396259/

Follow Carolina:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-carolinalago/

Follow Hedieh :

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

Follow Oz:

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

Follow Rishi:

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

Follow David:

• Website - https://www.dbrownconsulting.net/

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:

[01:23] - Introduction to the Panel

[05:51] - Circular References in Models

[10:14] - The Use of VBA

[14:55] - Dynamic Arrays Debate

[19:57] - Named Ranges in Excel

[24:50] - Will Excel Ever Die?

[33:43] - Can AI Build Models?

[37:56] - Should Modelers Learn Power BI?

[53:28] - Most Important Skill for Modelers

[57:40] - Closing Remarks

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, Paul Barnhurst discusses the ever-evolving field of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) with Bryan Lapidus. They explore the shift from traditional roles to value-driven finance. The discussion focuses on the rising importance of generative AI, and examines the essential skills needed for success in the field. 

Bryan Lapidus is the Director of the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP) and a leading voice in the FP&A community. With decades of experience spanning senior roles, an MBA from NYU, and a history of helping finance professionals elevate their skills, Bryan brings a wealth of knowledge on FP&A trends, certifications, and technological advancements.

• The evolution of FP&A and how specialization is reshaping the field.
• The critical role of generative AI in finance and practical advice for adoption.
• How the FP&A certification can boost career growth and salary potential.
• Differences between value-creating and control-focused CFOs and why it matters.
• Key technical and soft skills to thrive as an FP&A professional.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "To excel in FP&A, you need the why, the what, and the how: why we allocate capital, what we deliver, and how we use technology and people." - Bryan Lapidus
• "When finance focuses solely on controls, it limits its ability to contribute to the company’s growth." - Bryan Lapidus
• "The rise of data analytics in FP&A means more roles require coding knowledge like Python and SQL." - Bryan Lapidus

In this episode, Bryan Lapidus shares the transformative impact of technology, and the skills that define the role of FP&A. He emphasized the importance of value creation, specialization, and adopting tools like generative AI while staying grounded in foundational skills.

Plan Smarter with Workday:

Workday Adaptive Planning empowers organizations with AI-driven insights, advanced data visualization, and powerful reporting tools. Make smarter decisions faster and elevate your budgeting, forecasting, and modeling. Learn more at http://www.workday.com/fpaguy

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Follow Bryan:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-lapidus-fpac/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: 

Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3

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

[01:43] - About Bryan Lapidus

[03:04] - Defining FP&A

[06:30] - Challenges in FP&A

[10:30] - Bryan’s Career Journey

[14:51] - AFP Overview

[19:09] - AI’s transformative potential

[29:55] - FPAC Certification Value

[32:59] - Value-creating vs. Control-focused CFOs

[39:46] - FP&A Standard Questions

[50:36] - Advice for FP&A Professionals

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper talk about the role of artificial intelligence and high-stakes industries, including finance, energy, and defense. Guest Jon Brewton shares how his company is leading the charge in explainable and traceable AI solutions.

Jon Brewton is the founder and CEO of Data Squared, a service-disabled veteran owned business at the forefront of generative AI solutions. With a history of impactful roles at BP and Chevron, Jon’s expertise combines technology innovation and operational efficiency. His work emphasizes AI solutions that prioritize traceability, explainability, and reliability.

In this episode, you will learn:

• How AI traceability and explainability are transforming finance and other industries.
• The significance of knowledge graphs and Graph Rag techniques in financial data.
• The challenges of AI hallucinations and how to mitigate them in critical applications.
• Practical strategies for integrating AI and advanced analytics into financial workflows.
• Jon’s personal journey from the military to pioneering cutting-edge AI solutions.

Jon Brewton explains the importance of traceability and explainability and the transformative potential of knowledge graphs and advanced analytics. He shares practical tips and approaches that financial professionals can adopt today. 

Follow Jon:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-brewton-datasquared/

Website: https://www.data2.ai/

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:

[00:05] - Introduction to Jon Brewton

[01:41] - Founding Data Squared

[04:58] - Why Traceability Matters in AI

[10:07] - Generative AI in High-Stakes Industries

[12:10] - Role of Knowledge Graphs

[18:11] - Linking Financial Data

[20:38] - Addressing AI Hallucinations

[27:36] - Starting with AI in Finance

[32:00] - Personal Reflections

[35:05] - Closing Thoughts

In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst talks about data integration, focusing on how finance professionals can streamline data processes and optimize workflows. The conversation also explores the balance between spreadsheets and specialized tools in financial modeling. He provides practical guidance for professionals navigating data challenges in the modern financial landscape. 

Adam Rakich is an experienced professional in financial planning and analysis (FP&A) software and data integration solutions. With career spanning tools like Adaptive Insights, OneStream, and DataBlend, Adam brings a unique perspective on how accountants and finance teams can leverage technology to overcome data-related inefficiencies.

Expect to Learn:

• Why assumptions in financial models can make or break their reliability.
• The key factors that determine when to move from spreadsheets to planning tools.
• How to make data integration less intimidating for finance professionals.
• Practical solutions for accessing data across multiple systems, including API usage and hybrid approaches.
• Insights into the evolving role of Excel and Google Sheets in modern financial modeling.

Here are a few quotes from this episode:

• “Spreadsheets are not multi-user, and anyone trying to make them that way is spending more time than they should.” - Adam Rakich
• “For fractional CFOs, marketplaces like Zero and QuickBooks can be lifesavers with cost-effective integrations.” - Adam Rakich
• “Every small automation reduces time and errors, even if the entire process can’t be automated.” - Adam Rakich

Adam Rakich shares the challenges and opportunities in data integration and financial modeling. He offers practical solutions to approach data integration without fear, and the evolving roles of tools like Excel, Google Sheets, and APIs.

Follow Adam:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rakich/
• Business User’s Guide to Data Integration - https://a.co/d/5xSL3g4

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: 

[01:30] – Introduction to the Episode

[07:18] – Adam’s Career Journey

[09:38] – Moving Beyond Spreadsheets

[16:56] – Why Data Integration Matters

[21:03] – Common Methods of Accessing Data

[32:35] – SQL vs. Modern Tools

[37:46] – The Business User’s Guide to Data Integration

[44:32] – Rapid-Fire Questions

[52:47] – Closing Thoughts

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, aka “The FP&A Guy,” talks about financial planning and analysis (FP&A) with Carl Seidman. They discuss how technology, strategic thinking, and effective communication are reshaping FP&A roles, making them more agile and impactful than ever.

Carl Seidman is an FP&A advisor, educator, and fractional CFO with over two decades of experience in financial strategy, business storytelling, and leadership development. Founder of Seidman Financial, Carl helps organizations build robust FP&A capabilities and fosters the development of professionals through learning programs and mastermind groups.

• How the FP&A profession is transitioning from backward-looking analysis to strategic business partnering.
• The growing importance of communication and influence in advancing FP&A careers.
• Insights into scenario planning and anticipating disruptions in uncertain times.
• The role of technology and tools like Excel and generative AI in enhancing FP&A processes.
• Tips for becoming a more effective presenter and influencer in professional settings.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "Critical thinking and communication are the two most essential skills for FP&A professionals." - Carl Seidman
• "FP&A professionals must move beyond technical skills to focus on strategy and influence." - Carl Seidman
• "Excel is still powerful, but integrating it with modern tools can unlock even greater efficiency." - Carl Seidman

Carl shared actionable insights and practical advice that can help FP&A teams navigate the complexities of today's business environment. As FP&A transitions from traditional analysis to becoming a vital strategic partner, professionals must cultivate critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to influence decisions. 

Plan Smarter with Workday:

Workday Adaptive Planning empowers organizations with AI-driven insights, advanced data visualization, and powerful reporting tools. Make smarter decisions faster and elevate your budgeting, forecasting, and modeling. Learn more at http://www.workday.com/fpaguy

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Follow Carl:

LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/carlseidman

Website - https://seidmanfinancial.com/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: 

Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3

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

[02:29] - What Great FP&A Looks Like

[07:12] - The Evolution of FP&A Roles

[17:27] - Communication as a Key Skill

[21:05] - The Role of Feedback

[30:05] - The Power of Presentation

[34:39] - Influence and Strategy

[41:28] - Anticipation and Scenario Analysis

[47:06] - LinkedIn Learning Course

[49:24] - Rapid-Fire Questions

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and finance. They explore how AI tools like large language models (LLMs) are transforming data analytics and decision-making processes. They also examine the broader implications of AI advancements in other high-stakes industries such as energy, defense, and healthcare.

Jon Brewton is the founder and CEO of Data Squared. He brings extensive expertise in machine learning, AI solutions, and digital transformation. With a career spanning roles at BP, Chevron, and military service, Jon has spearheaded projects achieving significant operational efficiencies. At Data Squared, he focuses on creating reliable, traceable, and explainable AI solutions for critical sectors.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Microsoft’s advancements in LLMs for better integration with structured data.
• The five levels of AI capabilities outlined by OpenAI and what they mean.
• Why traceability and explainability are essential for deploying AI in finance.
• Innovative applications of Knowledge Graphs and RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) technology 
• Strategies to mitigate AI hallucinations and enhance reliability in decision-making processes.

In this episode, Jon Brewton discusses the transformative role of AI in the financial sector, advancements including spreadsheet-specific LLMs, the power of knowledge graphs, and the critical importance of traceability and explainability in AI deployment. 

Follow Jon:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-brewton-datasquared/

Website: https://www.data2.ai/

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:

[01:50] - Advancements in Spreadsheet LLMs

[04:54] - OpenAI’s Roadmap to AGI 

[13:49] - Jon Brewton Introduction

[18:45] - Importance of Traceability and Explainability

[25:40] - Knowledge Graphs and Financial Data

[34:56] - Addressing AI Hallucinations

[42:01] - Advice for Finance Leaders

[45:48] - Jon’s Unique Experiences

[48:53] - Closing Remarks