The FP&A Guy Network

In this episode, the hosts Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) and Glenn Hopper welcome Joe Manganelli, Chief Revenue Officer at Amalgam and founder of Calculate, a consultancy for financial solutions in startups. Joe shares his entrepreneurial journey, explaining how Amalgam evolved from a simple Excel macro into a powerful tool that integrates with platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, and Shopify.

The discussion turns to the role of technology in finance, how companies can better utilize data, and why AI will reshape the landscape of finance teams. Joe also offers insights into AI's impact on investing, risk management, and the growing importance of adaptable, tech-enabled tools in finance.

Expect to Learn:

• How Amalgam helps businesses automate data processes without complex implementations
• Key challenges in transitioning from simple tools to robust financial platforms
• The role of AI in finance and how to prepare for its ongoing integration
• Joe’s approach to investing in AI-focused startups and risk mitigation
• Practical steps finance teams can take today to become more tech-enabled

Joe’s insights highlighted how simplicity, adaptability, and technology-driven solutions are redefining finance functions, especially for startups and agile teams. Whether you’re in finance, tech, or an entrepreneurial role, Joe’s practical advice offers a roadmap for leveraging technology to maximize efficiency and data security in finance.

Follow Joe:

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

Website: https://www.amalgam.me/

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://qflow.ai/future-finance

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:

[00:56] – The creation and purpose of Amalgam

[02:07] – Challenges in scaling a product for the finance market

[03:44] – How fractional CFOs and in-house finance teams leverage Amalgam

[05:46] – Thoughts on agnostic, supportive, and proactive AI investments

[11:09] – How not storing data directly adds value and simplicity

[18:51] – Joe’s three-part approach for finance teams preparing for AI

[21:19] – Moving beyond chatbots to a seamless integration in daily workflows

[28:12] – Fun segment – “Get to Know You”

[32:47] – Closing remarks and final thoughts

In this episode, Paul Barnhurst, host of Financial Modeler’s Corner, is joined by Carl Seidman, an experienced financial consultant and financial modeling expert. Together, they explore the intricacies of financial modeling, discuss the art and strategy of dynamic cash flow modeling, and touch on the unique challenges and lessons Carl has gathered from his years in turnaround consulting. They also discuss the broader skills and mindset shifts required for modelers who aim to excel in the complex field of financial analysis and corporate finance.

Carl Seidman is the founder of Seidman Financial and a recognized expert in financial planning, forecasting, and modeling. With experience in turnaround consulting and as a fractional CFO, Carl has worked extensively with underperforming companies and complex restructuring cases. He brings an in-depth understanding of the strategic nuances in financial modeling and cash flow management, which he shares in this episode.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• The importance of long-term, flexible thinking in financial modeling and planning.
• Carl’s top lesson learned from a modeling “horror story” and how it shaped his approach to dynamic modeling.
• How dynamic arrays are transforming cash flow modeling and how to implement them.
• Why operational knowledge is crucial for effective financial modeling in turnaround situations.
• The value of networking and formal certifications in restructuring and financial advisory roles.

Here are a few quotes from Carl Seidman:

• "Financial modeling in complex situations is about facilitating discussions, not just presenting numbers." 
• "A good model tells you the ‘what,’ but the analysis and conversations that follow tell you the ‘so what’ and ‘now what.’"
• "It's important to know when to push the boundaries of what a model can do and when to keep things simple."

In this insightful episode, Carl Seidman leaves listeners with practical advice and a fresh perspective on financial modeling’s role in modern business. He highlights the value of flexibility, clear communication, and a long-term mindset, particularly in the complex terrain of turnaround consulting.

Follow Carl:

• Website - https://seidmanfinancial.com/
• LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/carlseidman

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 www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[01:12] – Introduction to the episode and guest

[05:44] – Key Lessons in Modeling and Long-Term Strategy

[10:36] – From PwC to Turnaround Consulting

[16:02] – Certified Insolvency and Restructuring Advisor (CIRA)

[20:20] – Diagnosing Cash Flow Issues in Underperforming Companies

[28:52] – Embracing Dynamic Arrays for Efficient Cash Flow Modeling

[32:40] – Modeling Mindset: Curiosity and Continuous Improvement

[37:57] – Rapid-Fire Q&A: Financial Modeling Preferences

[41:59] – Advice for Aspiring Modelers: Practice and Experiment

[43:30] – Closing Remarks and Where to Connect

In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) dives deep into the evolving world of Financial Planning & Analysis with Olivia MacDonald, a highly skilled financial professional with a diverse background in FP&A process optimization and system implementation. The conversation explores what makes FP&A great, focusing on business partnerships and the strategic role FP&A can play beyond just reporting numbers.

Olivia is a qualified CPA and ACA with a proven track record of delivering strategic solutions that drive efficiency, accuracy, and transparency across organizations. With a mastery of data extraction and transformation tools like MQL, SQL, and SOQL, Olivia has helped companies streamline operations, enhance financial transparency, and drive decision-making through data. Her non-traditional path into FP&A—from audit to FP&A consultancy—gives her a unique perspective on how finance can be a business driver, not just a reporting function.

Expect to Learn

• What distinguishes great FP&A teams, with a focus on strategic business partnering.
• How audit and FP&A share common skills, and how auditors can leverage financial modeling experience.
• The importance of building strong relationships as an FP&A professional and working with different business units.
• Olivia’s unique career journey from auditing in Ireland to working in FP&A and the key lessons learned.
• Strategies to streamline the budgeting process and engage business partners in decision-making.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “FP&A shouldn’t just be a reporting function. It needs to be a strategic business partner that helps drive decision-making.” - Olivia MacDonald
• “Having mentors who can tell you, ‘That’s a bad idea,’ is invaluable. It’s how I ended up taking risks in my career that paid off.” - Olivia MacDonald
• “When I got into FP&A, I realized how important it is to be a business partner, not just a numbers person.”  - Olivia MacDonald

This episode with Olivia MacDonald takes us through the evolving role of FP&A where she emphasizes the importance of involving business partners in the budgeting process, learning from mentors, and embracing technology, including generative AI.

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Follow Olivia:

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

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

Enroll for Financial Planning & Analysis 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

[02:13] Introduction to the episode and guest

[04:22] What Does Great FP&A Look Like?

[06:21] Olivia’s Journey from Auditing to FP&A

[09:31] Learning from Audit to Excel in FP&A

[12:31] Transition to Canada and FP&A Consulting

[22:09] Data Skills and the Future of FP&A

[29:03] Tips for Selecting FP&A Tools 

[38:54] A Blitz Approach to Budgeting

[46:55] Using Generative AI in FP&A

[55:49] Closing Thoughts & Advice

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst (The FP&A Guy) and Glenn Hopper welcome guest Joe Manganelli. Joe shares his journey from creating a simple Excel macro to founding Amalgam, now an integrated platform for financial automation. With rich insights on AI in finance, entrepreneurship, and investments, Joe discusses the evolution of his company, modern finance's future, and why simplifying processes is often key to innovation.

Joe Manganelli is the Chief Revenue Officer of Amalgam and founder of Calculate, a finance and accounting consultancy for startups. With a background in finance and accounting for emerging businesses, Joe has deep expertise in building practical tech solutions for finance teams. His current focus with Amalgam is making financial data easily accessible, automating workflows, and developing tools that streamline the finance function.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How Amalgam helps finance teams by simplifying and centralizing financial data through Excel.
• The steps finance functions can take to prepare for AI integration and data automation.
• Insights into the challenges of scaling a tech product from a macro to a platform.
• Joe’s perspective on investing in AI technology and the importance of aligning with market needs.
• The practical future of AI in finance, from predictive analysis to process automation.

In this episode, Joe Manganelli offers a wealth of insights into the intersection of finance, automation, and AI, underscoring the importance of simplifying financial workflows for greater efficiency. Joe’s perspective as both a founder and investor provides valuable guidance for anyone navigating the evolving landscape of finance and technology.

Follow Joe:

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

Website: https://www.amalgam.me/

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

Follow Glenn:

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

AI Mastery for Finance Professionals: https://a.co/d/h8cTGeR

Follow Paul:

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

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://qflow.ai/future-finance

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:

[01:47] – Real Use Cases of Generative AI

[09:14] – Introduction to guest Joe Manganelli

[11:13] – Overcoming Challenges and Scaling the Product

[13:51] – Joe’s Investment Philosophy in AI and Startups

[19:36] – Amalgam’s Data Security and Efficiency Approach

[28:05] – The ‘Walk Before You Run’ Strategy for AI in Finance

[30:33] – The Proactive Potential of Generative AI in Finance

[35:16] – Future of Predictive Financial Analysis with AI

[38:01] – Fun Q&A segment with Joe

[42:01] – Closing Remarks and Wrap Up

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) is joined by guest Mark Proctor. Together, they delve into the intricacies of financial modeling and data analysis, with a focus on building efficient models and leveraging automation in Excel. Mark shares his deep expertise on why structure is key, how to automate tedious tasks, and how Excel continues to evolve to meet the demands of modern financial professionals.

Mark Proctor is a seasoned financial professional with a background in accounting and finance, an Excel MVP, and the founder of Excel Off the Grid, a platform dedicated to improving efficiency and effectiveness in Excel. With decades of experience, Mark's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to optimize their use of Excel for financial modeling and beyond. He has helped countless professionals streamline their work through better data structure and automation techniques.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• Key differences between financial modeling and data analysis
• Importance of automation in Excel and how tools like Power Query and Power Pivot can drastically improve efficiency.
• Why traditional tools like Vlookup aren’t ideal for modern data analysis and what functions you should be using instead.
• How to approach building models that are flexible and easy to use, even when multiple stakeholders are involved.
• Practical strategies for reducing manual processes and eliminating the need for repetitive tasks in Excel.

Here are a few quotes from Mark Proctor:

• "Hard coding is the enemy of a flexible financial model. Once you start hard coding, you lose the ability to see what's really driving the model."
• "One of the key takeaways from bad models is that manual adjustments should always be documented and trackable."
• "Automation should be about freeing up your time to focus on high-value tasks, not just about making things faster."

As Excel continues to evolve with powerful features like dynamic arrays and advanced automation, the tools discussed in this episode are essential for anyone looking to keep pace with the future of financial modeling. Mark’s emphasis on mastering the basics and thinking structurally will help you work faster and more effectively.

Follow Mark:

• Website - https://exceloffthegrid.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/markstephenproctor/

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 www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[01:54] - Financial Modeling Horror Stories

[04:55] - Lessons from Bad Models

[06:28] - Mark's Career Journey and Background

[12:59] - Data Analysis vs. Financial Modeling

[19:17] - Excel as a Data Analysis Tool: Key Innovations

[22:55] - Automation in Excel and Practical Tips

[33:59] - The Importance of Mastering Excel Basics

[44:19] - Wrap-Up and Closing Remarks

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) engages in a deep discussion with guest Aaron Goss where they explore the intricacies of effective FP&A from the perspective of a company leader. The conversation provides insights into how budgeting and forecasting evolve when a company transitions from privately owned to being backed by private equity.

Aaron Goss is a seasoned executive with a unique career path. Starting as a part-time sales employee, Aaron quickly rose to the position of Chief Revenue Officer before becoming president of Brothers Paving and Concrete. With a background in public administration, Aaron brings a fresh perspective to leadership in the construction industry, having steered his company from small-scale operations to large-scale growth under private equity backing.

Expect to Learn

• How Aaron Goss defines good FP&A and what makes an ideal business partner for a CEO.
• The differences between budgeting in a privately owned company versus one backed by private equity.
• Leadership strategies to improve collaboration between finance and operations teams.
• Insights into transitioning from sales to executive leadership, and how skills from different fields translate into success.
• How empathy and understanding the challenges of other departments lead to better leadership and company culture.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "There’s often a natural conflict between the CEO's broad vision and the finance team’s need for detail, but it’s essential to balance those perspectives." - Aaron Goss
• "Being a partner in solutions, rather than just a reporter of data, is what makes FP&A truly effective." - Aaron Goss
• "A great leader is a great coach, communicator, and someone who can build trust across teams, regardless of their technical expertise." - Aaron Goss

This conversation with Aaron Goss offers a wealth of insight into team collaboration, effective FP&A, and executive leadership. He emphasizes the need for empathy, clear communication, and balancing details with the broader company vision.

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Follow Aaron:

Email - [email protected]

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-goss-a06b36b/

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

Enroll for Financial Planning & Analysis 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

[01:25] - Introduction to the episode

[03:06] - What is great FP&A to a CEO?

[10:24] - Budgeting process in different ownership structures

[17:10] - Leadership and finance collaboration

[23:08] - The importance of understanding operations

[28:04] - Sales and finance relationship dynamics

[31:52] - Key skills for FP&A professionals

[43:11] - Final thoughts on business partnering

[47:20] - Wrap up and contact information

In this episode, the hosts Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) and Glenn Hopper explore how artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI, is transforming the world of corporate finance. The conversation dives into the practical applications of AI in finance, the current trends shaping the industry, and the steps finance professionals can take to embrace these new technologies.

Nicolas Boucher, founder of the AI Finance Club, shares his expertise on how AI is helping finance teams work faster and more efficiently, with real-life examples and insights from his vast experience. With over 15 years of experience at global companies like PwC and Thales, Nicolas has trained more than 5,000 professionals on the power of AI in finance and is on a mission to reach a million finance leaders.

Expect to Learn:

• How generative AI can revolutionize corporate finance
• Practical examples of how AI tools can improve productivity for finance professionals.
• The importance of becoming a "citizen developer" in the finance industry
• The role of Python in automating financial processes and making data-driven predictions.
• The best practices for finance professionals to adopt AI and integrate it securely

Whether you’re already experimenting with AI or just starting to explore its potential, this discussion highlights the tools and strategies that can drive efficiency and innovation in your finance team. By adopting AI and automation, finance professionals can stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. Nicolas’ advice and experience provide a valuable roadmap for leveraging these technologies effectively.

Follow Nicolas:

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

Website: https://ai-finance.club/

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://qflow.ai/future-finance

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:

[00:04] - Introduction of Nicolas Boucher

[01:46] - Nicolas’ AI Discovery Journey

[03:47] - Using AI in Day-to-Day Business

[08:03] - The Role of Python and Automation in Finance

[15:05] - Exciting AI-Powered Software in Finance

[20:11] - Democratizing Finance Through AI

[25:31] - How Finance Professionals Can Stay Ahead in AI

[30:12] - Random Question Segment

[36:28] - Closing Thoughts and contact information

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst dives into the evolution of financial modeling with guest Chase Wright. The discussion focuses on modern financial modeling tools and workflows, particularly a new spreadsheet tool called Equals, and how it compares to Excel and Google Sheets. Wright shares his journey from a finance background to working at startups, where he developed innovative methods to streamline financial operations using cutting-edge tools.

Chase Wright is a seasoned finance executive with a decade of experience across startups and tech companies like GitLab, Instabug, and Red Hat. Currently the Head of Finance and Data at Uniqode, Chase has a unique blend of corporate finance, data science, and business management expertise. He’s also an advisor to Cacheflow and a limited partner at FOG Ventures. With an engineering background and deep experience in finance, Chase brings a fresh perspective on the challenges and innovations in financial modeling.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• How Chase Wright’s career journey led him to innovate in financial modeling
• The role of modern spreadsheet tools like Equals in finance and data teams
• How to use tools like Equals to automate reporting and financial analysis
• The importance of balancing curiosity and necessity when developing career skills
• The pros and cons of traditional modeling tools like Excel and Google Sheets versus newer alternatives

Here are a few quotes from Chase Wright:

• “Equals is a modern spreadsheet for data and finance teams, connecting directly to your data sources.” - Chase Wright
• “Financial models are incredibly helpful, but at the end of the day, it's the intuition behind the model that really matters.” - Chase Wright
• “Slack integration in Equals makes communicating insights across the company incredibly simple.” - Chase Wright
• “AI in Equals acts as a copilot, making things like summing columns or adding borders incredibly intuitive.” - Chase Wright

In this episode, Chase Wright shares his journey from struggling with complex models in Excel to embracing the automation and connectivity that Equals offers highlights the growing need for more intuitive and efficient financial tools. He emphasizes that the right tools, combined with critical thinking, can not only improve workflows but also provide deeper insights that drive business success.

Follow Chase:

• Website - https://www.uniqode.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chasewright/
• Blog - https://medium.com/uniqode-secret-sauce/an-operators-guide-for-managing-your-saas-startup-s-cash-flow-c1dbfc3a1e71

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 www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[01:45] – Introduction to Chase Wright and his journey

[02:54] – The nightmare of VBA models and lessons

[04:24] – Educational Path: Finance to Engineering

[07:01] – Equals: The modern spreadsheet tool

[15:13] – How Equals Simplifies Data Integration

[20:02] – Financial modeling: Critical Thinking in Action

[31:03] – Rapid Fire Segment: Excel and Equals

[39:37] – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Paul Barnhurst dives deep into practical frameworks and leadership strategies for finance professionals with guest Brett Hampson. Brett discusses what he believes constitutes great FP&A and how grassroots finance transformations, rather than top-down technology implementations, can foster a proactive, value-creating FP&A culture.

Brett Hampson has spent over a decade in corporate FP&A, working with some of the world’s largest companies. He is the author of The FP&A Operating System, a book that outlines his approach to establishing a high-functioning FP&A department. Brett is also the founder of Forecasting Performance, a platform that promotes best practices in financial analysis and forecasting.

Expect to Learn

• What grassroots finance transformation entails and why it’s preferable to technology-centric approaches.
• How to implement Brett’s FP&A Operating System and FP&A Flywheel framework to drive efficiency and value.
• The importance of setting a clear vision and objectives for FP&A teams to move from reactive to proactive operations.
• How to leverage attribution analysis and storytelling to enhance FP&A’s influence on business decisions.
• Tips on creating a culture of continuous improvement within FP&A by focusing on people, processes, and technology in that order.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “Grassroots finance transformation happens when each person on the team has their own vision and works towards solving specific challenges.” - Brett Hampson
• “Technology alone doesn’t solve problems. It might fix one, but often creates new ones if cultural issues aren’t addressed first.” - Brett Hampson
• “Our greatest challenge in FP&A is often ourselves – we need to avoid being too introspective and focus on the business.” - Brett Hampson

With insights into creating effective FP&A systems and teams, Brett Hampson provides a refreshing perspective on FP&A transformation. He highlights the importance of people, process, and then technology, in that order, as the foundation for a high-performing FP&A team.

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Follow Brett:

Website - https://bretthampson.gumroad.com/l/proactive

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-hampson/

Newsletter - https://blog.forecastingperformance.com/subscribe

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

Enroll for Financial Planning & Analysis 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

[02:12] - Brett’s Background and Introduction

[05:17] - The Creation of The FP&A Operating System

[08:04] - Developing a Proactive FP&A Culture

[13:22] - Grassroots FP&A Transformation

[16:32] - People and Process Before Technology

[29:28] - Building the Right Team and Culture

[35:11] - Establishing Efficient Processes with the FP&A Flywheel

[39:52] - Case Study: Turning Around Forecast Accuracy

[52:16] - Final Advice and Wrap-Up

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper delve into the world of AI-driven financial analysis with Andrew Einhorn. From anecdotes about early AI experiments to deep insights on leveraging data, Andrew shares how his platform helps investors move beyond opinions and make data-backed decisions.

Andrew Einhorn is an entrepreneur and data scientist with over a decade of experience in creating technology companies. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Level Fields, Andrew's mission is to make sophisticated investment analysis accessible to everyday investors. His background spans epidemiology, regulatory science, and technology, with a focus on using data to simplify complex financial landscapes. He is passionate about solving problems and democratizing investment strategies.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How AI can analyze real-time events to provide actionable investment insights for retail investors
• The role of data in replacing opinion-based decisions with factual, evidence-driven analysis 
• Strategies for successfully integrating AI tools into financial decision-making processes
• Insights into the challenges and rewards of being a startup entrepreneur in the fintech space
• Key factors in building AI models specific to financial services and tailoring models to sector-specific needs

The conversation offers valuable perspectives on the transformative role AI plays in the financial industry today. Andrew’s insights emphasized the importance of moving past traditional investment analysis methods and adopting cutting-edge technology to unlock greater market opportunities.

Follow Andrew:

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

Website: https://www.levelfields.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://qflow.ai/future-finance

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

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

In Today’s Episode:

[02:09] – Why your company needs an AI strategy

[09:59] – Navigating the pitfalls of early AI adoption

[16:50] – Introducing Andrew Einhorn and Level Fields

[18:01] – The entrepreneurial drive and startup challenges

[24:02] – From epidemiology to AI in finance

[33:14] – How level fields makes advanced investment analysis accessible

[40:27] – Leveraging proprietary AI models in financial analysis

[44:05] – Quick-fire personal questions with Andrew

[47:12] – Closing remarks and wrap up