The FP&A Guy Network

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst aka The FP&A Guy talks about the electrifying world of Excel Esports at the Financial Modeling World Cup (FMWC) in Las Vegas. This special episode captures the energy and innovation of the event, showcasing interviews with top competitors, including Excel MVPs and data enthusiasts, while exploring how Excel competitions push the boundaries of modeling expertise.

The episode features Josh Aharonoff: Microsoft MVP, "Your CFO Guy," specializing in dynamic financial modeling and consulting. David Fortin: Excel expert, Microsoft MVP, and creator of the World of Warcraft-themed FMWC case study. Jaq Kennedy: UK-based actuarial consultant and Excel enthusiast, sharing personal stories and insights from the event. Amber Johnson: Industrial engineer turned Excel champion, known for her creative modeling approach.

Expect to Learn:

• Insights into the competitive world of the Financial Modeling World Cup and the role of Excel Esports.
• Unique perspectives on the creative use of Excel, from real-world modeling to themed case studies.
• How Excel innovations like Power Query, dynamic arrays, and VBA are transforming data work.
• Personal journeys of Excel enthusiasts and their favorite tips and tools.
• Why participating in competitions like FMWC can rapidly enhance your financial modeling skills.

Here are a few quotes from this episode:

• "I’ve spent 24 years working in Excel, and competing here has tripled my knowledge in just two years." - Jaq Kennedy
• "Competing is less about beating others and more about seeing how much you’ve improved." - Amber Johnson
• "Creating a case with input from Blizzard Entertainment was surreal—it brought my gaming passion into Excel." - David Fortin

The Financial Modeling World Cup is a celebration of creativity, community, and growth. Events like these provide an experience of learning from the best in the field, or simply embracing the love of Excel. 

Follow Josh:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshaharonoff/
• Website - https://www.yourcfoguy.com/

Follow David:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-fortin-cpa-816b20b5/
• Website - https://linktr.ee/Piggybankaccountant

Follow Jaq:

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

Follow Amber:

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

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: 

[01:27] - Introduction and Event Overview

[03:39] - Interview with Josh Aharonoff and David Fortin

[10:12] - Horror Stories and Excel Lessons

[12:25] - Excel Preferences

[23:04] - Interview with Jaq Kennedy

[30:14] - Rapid Fire with Jaq

[33:27] - Interview with Amber Johnson

[42:22] - Closing Thoughts and FMWC Invitation

[43:02] - Giles Male's Anthem

This episode takes you to the heart of the Financial Modeling World Cup (FMWC) 2024, hosted at the HyperX Gaming Arena in Las Vegas. Known as the "Excel Esports Championship," this unique event blends competitive financial modeling with the energy of live sports entertainment. From electric arenas to engaging case competitions, discover how Excel enthusiasts and world-class modelers push the boundaries of what's possible in financial modeling.

This episode features an exceptional lineup of guests, including Andrew Grigolyunovich, founder of the Financial Modeling World Cup and a pioneer in turning financial modeling into an esport; Michael Jarman, the 2024 FMWC World Champion known for his innovative modeling techniques and leadership at Operis; Giles Male, a commentator and self-proclaimed “Most Humble MVP”. Klinsmann Langhanz, founder of FMWC Brasil and a passionate advocate for Excel training and community-building; and appearances from Danielle Stein Fairhurst and Jaq Kennedy.

Expect to Learn:

• How the FMWC is transforming financial modeling into an exciting esport.
• Insights from top modelers on preparing for high-pressure competitions.
• The role of networking and community in fostering innovation and growth in the Excel world.
• Practical advice for improving financial modeling skills through competitions.
• Behind-the-scenes from the HyperX Arena, including hilarious moments.

Here are a few quotes from this episode:

• "Financial modeling competitions make you better at work and expand your career horizons." - Andrew Grigolyunovich
• "The FMWC community is about helping each other, not tearing each other down." - Giles Male
• "The unthinkable becomes possible when you network and collaborate." - Klinsmann Langhanz

With the Financial Modeling World Cup 2024, we've seen how Excel has grown from a business tool to the centerpiece of a thriving global community. From the inspiring vision of Andrew Grigolyunovich to the insights of world champion Michael Jarman, this event celebrates the art, science, and camaraderie of financial modeling.

Follow Andrew:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewgrig/
• Company - https://fmworldcup.com/

Follow Michael:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-jarman-excel/
• Email: [email protected]

Follow Giles:

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

Follow Danielle:

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

Follow Klinsmann:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/klinsmann-langhanz/

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:

[00:01:42] - Host Paul Barnhurst sets the stage

[00:03:59] - A recap of the event's atmosphere

[00:07:13] - Interview: Andrew Grigolyunovich

[00:12:14] - Vision for the Future of FMWC

[00:22:54] - Creating FMWC Case Studies

[00:34:13] - Michael Jarman's Journey

[00:49:50] - Commentary with Giles Male

[00:56:22] - Jaq Kennedy and Danielle Stein Fairhurst

[00:58:24] - Interview: Klinsmann Langhanz

[01:08:38] - Closing Thoughts

In this insightful episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, "The FP&A Guy," explores the dynamic world of financial planning and analysis with guest Greg Adams, a seasoned CFO and author. They discuss how finance professionals can drive value through storytelling, critical thinking, and strategic insights. The conversation also delves into Greg's journey from leading finance teams to writing an international crime thriller with an accountant hero, redefining the image of finance professionals.

Greg Adams is the SVP and CFO of the American Management Association (AMA), with over 25 years of leadership experience in public and private finance. He is a CPA and a published author whose debut novel, Green Shades: Accountants Aren't Supposed to Die This Way, combines financial intrigue with a thrilling narrative. Greg's leadership mission is centered on fostering corporate excellence and empowering finance professionals to embrace their strategic potential.

• The evolving role of FP&A as a strategic partner in business.
• Why storytelling is a critical skill for finance professionals.
• How to leverage external data and AI for more robust financial planning.
• Insights into the value of "power skills" like communication and leadership.
• Greg’s journey writing a crime thriller that challenges stereotypes about accountants.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "If you control information, you control the world. FP&A professionals need to look beyond internal data and consider external benchmarks." - Greg Adams
• "AI and machine learning allow us to move beyond just historical data to anticipate what’s coming." - Greg Adams
• "Step away from your desk and talk to people. The best insights often come from conversations." - Greg Adams

Greg Adams offered a fresh and inspiring perspective on the role of finance professionals. From emphasizing the art of storytelling in FP&A to advocating for the integration of external data and AI, Greg highlighted how finance can be a driver of change and innovation.

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 Greg:

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

Website - https://www.cpa-author.com/

Email - mailto:[email protected]

Special Offer for Listeners

The first three listeners to contact Greg at [email protected] can access a free AMA course (valued at $2,000-$3,000). Mention FP&A Tomorrow in your email!

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

[01:39] - Meet Greg Adams

[04:01] - What is Great FP&A?

[06:17] - External Data and AI in Finance

[10:46] - The Art of Storytelling in Finance

[11:59] - Greg’s Role at AMA

[19:38] - Writing Green Shades

[27:58] - Lessons from a CFO's Career

[38:31] - Evolution of CFO Role

[43:23] - Tips for FP&A Professionals

[51:53] - Final Thoughts and Takeaways

In this episode of Future Finance, we explore the intersection of data, storytelling, and financial strategy. Hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper sit down with Gabi Steele to discuss how modern AI tools are transforming FP&A teams and creating new opportunities for organizations to harness their data effectively. From manual processes to automated systems, we dive into the strategies behind making businesses truly data-driven.

Gabi Steele is an acclaimed entrepreneur and data visualization expert, best known for her work as co-founder of Data Culture, a consulting firm enabling data-driven decisions, and Preql, an AI-powered enterprise metrics platform that recently secured $7 million in seed funding. With a background in graphic design and a master's in data visualization, Gabi is passionate about making data accessible, accurate, and actionable for businesses of all sizes. She shares insights from her journey, including her time at The Washington Post and the founding of innovative startups.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How Gabi's creative background in graphic design shaped her approach to data visualization and entrepreneurship.
• The role of AI in automating data cleaning and governance for finance teams.
• Strategies for reducing technical debt in SMBs to unlock the full potential of data.
• Why storytelling is critical in finance and how data visualization bridges the gap between insights and action.
• Tips for fostering a data-driven culture within organizations and empowering FP&A teams.

Gabi Steele provided a wealth of knowledge on how data visualization, AI, and automation are transforming the way finance teams operate. From reducing manual processes to fostering data-driven cultures, her expertise inspires both SMBs and larger organizations to rethink how they leverage data for strategic growth. 

Follow Gabi:

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

Website: https://www.preql.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] Introduction for Gabi Steele

[01:09] From Art to Analytics

[04:33] Data Storytelling in Finance

[08:04] AI and FP&A Transformation

[14:14] The Democratization of Analytics

[18:15] Challenges in SMB Data Adoption

[19:04] Building a Data-Driven Culture

[33:58] Fun Get-to-Know-You Questions

[38:16] Closing Thoughts

In this insightful episode of FP&A Tomorrow, we explore the dynamic relationship between Financial Planning and Analysis and Supply Chain Planning. Host Paul Barnhurst aka The FP&A Guy discusses how these two critical functions can work together to create better outcomes for businesses, particularly in challenging environments. With supply chain disruptions and evolving market needs, aligning these disciplines is more vital than ever.

Guests: Lyndsey Weber, a seasoned expert with a background in supply chain and finance, and Marcia Williams, a supply chain planning professional with roots in accounting. Lyndsey transitioned from ExxonMobil to tech, where she focuses on optimizing supply chain planning with financial insights. Marcia brings a wealth of knowledge on integrating operational and financial strategies to drive value and efficiency.

• How FP&A and supply chain planning intersect and complement each other.
• Key differences in planning horizons and decision-making processes between FP&A and supply chain.
• The role of integrated business planning (IBP) in achieving cross-functional alignment.
• Strategies to enhance communication and collaboration between finance and supply chain teams.
• Real-world examples of overcoming challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and creating value through supply chain optimization.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "Every company has supply and demand, whether it's a product or a service. Matching them is the core of supply chain planning." - Lyndsey Weber
• "Finance and supply chain must combine top-down and bottom-up approaches for effective planning." - Marcia Williams
• "The more granular focus in supply chain planning complements the high-level strategy in FP&A." - Lyndsey Weber

From breaking down the barriers between FP&A and supply chain to leveraging collaboration for unlocking new opportunities, this episode highlighted actionable strategies for creating alignment and driving business value. Finance and supply chain are two sides of the same coin, and when aligned, they enable better, faster decisions that benefit the entire organization.

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 Lyndsey:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndsey-weber/

Follow Marcia:

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

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] - Meet the Guests

[04:09] - Career Shifts and Lessons Learned

[07:38] - Understanding Supply Chain Planning

[12:21] - Challenges in Integrated Planning

[17:51] - Ensuring Cross-Functional Alignment

[26:59] - Leveraging Metrics for Better Collaboration

[37:00] - Key Advice for FP&A Professionals

[42:14] - Skillsets in Finance vs. Supply Chain Planning

[49:56] - Fun and Personal Insights

[54:10] - Conclusion

In this insightful episode of the Future Finance Show, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper explore the evolving landscape of finance, data analytics, and automation with Gabi Steele, a seasoned data visualization expert and co-founder of Preql. The discussion navigates the challenges finance teams face in building data-driven cultures, leveraging AI tools, and creating efficiencies in data management.

Gabi Steele is a graphic designer turned data visionary and entrepreneur. She is the co-founder of Data Culture and Preql, a platform streamlining data metrics for businesses. With a background in data visualization at The Washington Post and a passion for making data accessible, Gabi brings valuable insights on transforming data into actionable business strategies.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How finance teams can leverage AI tools to reduce manual data processes and improve accuracy.
• The importance of storytelling and accessibility in data visualization.
• Ways to foster a data-driven culture within organizations of all sizes.
• Challenges and solutions for integrating AI with financial planning and analysis (FP&A).
• The future of low-code/no-code tools in democratizing data analytics.

Gabi Steele offered a masterclass in how finance professionals can embrace the transformative power of data and AI. From simplifying complex data processes to fostering a culture of analytics, Gabi underscored the importance of aligning teams, tools, and technology for smarter decision-making. 

Follow Gabi:

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

Website: https://www.preql.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:

[01:48] - Introduction to the Episode

[08:23] - Financial Modeling World Cup

[19:37] - Discussion on AI Subscriptions

[25:53] - Meet Guest: Gabi Steele

[26:59] - Data's Role in Finance

[33:58] - Leveraging AI in Data Management

[39:07] Democratizing Data Access

[44:57] Building a Data-Driven Culture

[49:45] Challenges in SMB Data Integration

[59:51] Fun Segment: Get to Know Gabi

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Charles Keepman, a seasoned financial modeler and valuation expert, to discuss the intricacies of financial modeling, best practices, and common pitfalls. They explore real-world scenarios, discuss the value of creating dynamic models, and delve into the art of valuing companies, focusing on how different industries and stages of business impact modeling strategies.

Charles Keepman has spent years honing his skills in financial modeling, starting at Ernst & Young and later working at Economics Partners (now Ryan Valuation). With deep expertise in business valuation, Charles currently applies his modeling skills to help clients make strategic financial decisions. His career trajectory has been shaped by his passion for creating efficient and dynamic financial models that help businesses make informed, data-driven decisions.

Expect to Learn:

• Key principles for building auditable, easy-to-follow financial models.
• Insights into business valuation: when to use different approaches like DCF, asset, and market-based methods.
• The role of qualitative factors in valuation and how they can drastically influence outcomes.
• The role of Excel and financial modeling software in today’s fast-paced financial world.
• Why simplicity often trumps complexity in financial modeling, and how to strike the right balance.

Here are a few quotes from Charles Keepman:

• "I think AI will have a profound effect on financial modeling, but we need to make sure it’s auditable and understandable."
• "Financial models are great tools, but the true value lies in understanding the assumptions behind them."
• "You can get stuck in analysis paralysis if you overcomplicate your models with too many variables."

From emphasizing the importance of simplicity and clear assumptions to his preference for using tools like XLOOKUP over complex formulas, Charles provides a wealth of practical advice. His perspective on AI in financial modeling highlights the balance between leveraging technology and maintaining human judgment, ensuring that models remain accurate and useful.

Follow Charles:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-keepman-58766a40/

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:

[01:24] - Introduction to Charles Keepman

[02:03] - The "Worst Financial Model" Horror Story

[05:57] - A Rundown of Charles’ Career

[09:04] - The Favorite Part of Financial Modeling

[14:53] - The Most Unique Uses of Excel in Personal Life

[17:26] - Valuing a Company: The First Steps

[21:43] - The Most Unique Business Models

[23:41] - Excel vs. Deal Work

[27:03] - The Simplicity vs. Complexity Debate

[32:49] - Excel's Evolution: Favorite Features

[36:20] - Rapid Fire Segment

[45:27] - Final Advice and Closing

In this engaging episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, the FP&A Guy, sits down with Mark Hansen, CFO of Entrata. Their conversation explores financial planning and analysis (FP&A), strategic business decision-making, and the evolving role of finance teams in organizations. This episode provides valuable insights into how FP&A professionals can align metrics, foster relationships, and utilize data to empower strategic growth.

Mark Hansen brings a wealth of experience as the CFO of Entrata, a comprehensive ERP platform for the multifamily housing industry. Prior to this role, Mark held pivotal finance positions at Pluralsight and Skullcandy, leading finance teams through periods of significant growth. A CPA with a master’s in accounting from the University of Utah, Mark combines technical expertise with a strategic vision, making him a thought leader in the financial industry.

Expect to Learn

• Understanding the transition from accurate forecasting to strategic decision-making.
• Why FP&A is positioned as the "center of the universe" for organizational data.
• Practical advice on aligning and rolling forward metrics to track business performance.
• How to leverage diverse experiences (the "bingo card" approach) to achieve career growth.
• Insights into hiring, mentoring, and fostering curiosity and technical skills within finance teams.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "Understanding unit economics, gross margin, and other granular financial details helps inform better business decisions." - Mark Hansen
• "Understanding SEC reporting is like leveling up in financial knowledge. It's the major leagues of financial reporting." - Mark Hansen
• "FP&A teams of the future will not just focus on budgeting and forecasting but also on data analytics and business modeling." - Mark Hansen

In this insightful episode, Mark shares valuable advice on career development, stressing the importance of building strong relationships, acquiring diverse skills, and being proactive in one's career progression. Mark’s focus on curiosity, technical skills, and business partnering provides a roadmap for any finance professional looking to elevate their impact.

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 Mark:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hansen-7b79045/

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

[01:57] Introduction to Mark Hansen

[02:55] Defining Great FP&A

[08:41] Lessons from SEC Reporting

[15:01] Pluralsight’s Growth Journey

[25:48] The Challenges of Metric Alignment

[32:22] First CFO Role at Entrata

[39:10] The Hardest Roles to Fill in Finance

[44:35] The Future of FP&A Teams

[49:26] Fun insights into Mark’s hobbies

[52:49] Final Takeaway: Business Partnering

In this episode of Future Finance, Glenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst welcome Nathan Bell, a seasoned executive with over two decades of experience navigating complex intersections of finance, data analytics, and digital transformation. From his roots in coding at TransUnion to becoming a chief credit officer and later a CFO, Nathan shares his compelling journey and invaluable insights into leveraging data for decision-making and efficiency.

Nathan Bell is a transformative leader in finance and technology, specializing in data-driven decision-making and digital transformation. With expertise spanning data governance, advanced analytics, and financial operations, Nathan has worked at the forefront of technology adoption in organizations ranging from startups to established enterprises. A former Gartner analyst, he now leads VI Consulting, helping finance teams unlock the potential of data and AI.

Expect to Learn:

• The interplay between finance, data, and technology in decision-making.
• The critical first steps to establishing effective data governance and management.
• Real-world stories of overcoming challenges with data literacy and BI implementation.
• How to prepare finance teams for scaling and adopt advanced analytics.
• The importance of a sufficient "truth" in reporting and avoiding pitfalls in self-service BI.

From building foundational data governance structures to navigating advanced analytics, Nathan emphasized that success lies in aligning teams, leveraging the right tools, and cultivating a culture of data literacy. His unique journey underscores the importance of embracing change and preparing for a future where finance professionals who adapt to AI and data-driven decision-making will lead the way.

Follow Nathan:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-bell-1038662/

Website: https://www.vai-consulting.com/

Company: https://meetvirginia.io/

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:

[01:59] From Coding to Finance Leadership

[04:22] Building Stories with Data

[09:35] Transition to Data Analytics Leadership

[12:49] Tackling Data Governance Challenges

[17:17] Owning the Data Narrative

[19:57] Typical Clients and Scaling Finance Teams

[25:23] Bridging the Finance Skills Gap

[30:02] Fun and Random: Nathan’s Travel Tales

[32:52] Closing Thoughts and Wrap Up

In this special debate episode, host Paul Barnhurst aka The FP&A Guy is joined by an all-star panel of modeling experts to tackle some of the most contentious questions in the financial modeling world. This lively discussion promises insights, entertainment, and plenty of surprises as the panelists bring their expertise and humor to the table. Together, they bring decades of experience, fresh perspectives, and a shared passion for the art and science of financial modeling.

The powerhouse panel of financial modeling experts include: Derek Baker, FP&A professional and co-founder of the FP&A Hub; Lance Rubin, CEO of Model Citizen and Chief Excel Officer at Excel Cloud; Diarmuid "Dim" Early, founder of Early Days Consulting; Craig Hatmaker, retired founder of Beyond Excel and advocate for modern modeling techniques; Dr. David Brown, finance professor at the University of Arizona and founder of the Microsoft Excel Collegiate Challenge; Danielle Stein Fairhurst, Sydney-based financial modeling trainer, author, and Microsoft MVP; Ian Bennett, leader of PwC's global financial modeling practice and Master Financial Modeler; and Craig Thompson, former investment banker now innovating in software at Aleph.

Expect to Learn:

• Why financial models are (or aren’t) the ultimate decision-making tool for businesses.
• The role of Excel in the future: is it here to stay, or will it be replaced by emerging technologies?
• Power BI, Power Query, and Python in financial modeling—are they worth learning?
• Controversial techniques: the debate on circular references and dynamic arrays.
• Whether AI will eventually replace human modelers—and how soon.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Excel’s modern tools, like Power Query and lambdas, are setting the stage for AI to change how we build models." - Lance Rubin
• "AI can process data, but it lacks the creativity and business acumen needed for financial modeling." - Danielle Stein Fairhurst
• "Excel is the foundation of the financial system, and its adaptability ensures it will last for years to come." - Dr. David Brown

From the future of Excel to the role of AI, the importance of financial statements, and the tools that modelers should master, this episode explored the evolving landscape of financial modeling.

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In today’s episode:

[01:42] - Introduction to the Episode

[04:16] - The Debate Battle Starts

[07:12] - Should Financial Modelers Learn Python?

[11:15] - Dynamic Arrays vs. Traditional Models

[16:52] - Will Excel Ever Die?

[20:55] - Should Financial Modelers Learn Power BI?

[26:21] - Will AI Build Financial Models?

[32:09] - Circular References: Useful or Evil?

[39:27] - VBA in Financial Models

[44:41] - Number One Corporate Decision Making Tool

[52:58] - Which Financial Statement is Most Important?

[59:50] - Conclusion and Audience Poll