The FP&A Guy Network

In this innovative episode, Paul Barnhurst experiments with Google’s AI tool, Notebook LM, and transforms previous guest interviews into an AI-generated episode. He explores the insights and best practices in financial modeling, as shared by veterans Scott Rostan, founder of Training the Street, and Ian Bennett, a PwC Australia leader with extensive experience in managing large modeling teams.

By leveraging AI, this episode explores how technology can recreate meaningful conversations with industry leaders, providing an interactive look at best practices, common pitfalls, and the evolving landscape of financial modeling. Paul explores advanced technical skills and the human elements that are essential to successful financial modeling.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• Four essential key pillars for excelling in financial modeling
• Strategies for maintaining simplicity and auditability in financial models
• Emerging tools in Excel and functionality of traditional financial modeling
• How financial modeling expertise goes beyond technical skills 
• Insights on the potential future of financial modeling with AI advancements 

Quotes from the Episode:

• "Even in the world of complex finance, sometimes the simplest approach is the best approach." - Scott Rostan
• "It’s about seeing the big picture, understanding your client’s needs and using your modeling skills to craft a solution, not just a spreadsheet." - Ian Bennett
• "AI will get really good at those technical tasks, cleaning up data, maybe running some basic forecasts, but that just frees us humans up to focus on the stuff that requires creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence." - AI

In this special AI-driven episode, Paul Barnhurst invites listeners to consider how the field of financial modeling is both grounded in foundational skills and evolving with new technologies. It’s about connecting with clients, asking the right questions, and using your skills to drive better business decisions.

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: 

[01:17] Introduction to the episode

[03:57] Lessons from modeling mistakes

[06:29] Four key pillars of financial modeling

[08:51] Managing large-scale models

[13:40] Excel’s power stack and future enhancements

[15:14] Modeling standards and best practices

[19:38] Excel’s longevity and AI’s role

[22:44] The World of fractional FP&A

[27:38] AI’s place in financial modeling

[33:16] Wrap-up and invitation for feedback

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst dives into the future of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) with guest Soufyan Hamid. The discussion focuses on the evolving role of FP&A, from its traditional technical functions to a more business-focused and communicative role. Soufyan shares his journey and insights into improving presentation skills, communication, and becoming a valued business partner in the finance world.

Soufyan Hamid has over 17 years of corporate experience in finance, starting in auditing and consulting with PwC before becoming a finance business partner. Today, he leads The Finance Circle, where he trains finance professionals on improving their storytelling and presentation skills, a key aspect often missing in FP&A. Soufyan is known for his Financial Storytelling Program and his popular LinkedIn presence, where he shares tips with over 75,000 followers.

Expect to Learn

• Why it's not just about numbers but adding strategic value to the business.
• How effective storytelling can turn data into impactful business insights.
• Soufyan’s transition from corporate finance to entrepreneurship.
• How to prepare messages that resonate and drive action.
• Overcoming the habit of over-detailing and shifting focus to clear communication.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “Great FP&A today is about balancing technical skills with business partnering to add real value beyond the numbers.” - Soufyan Hamid
• “In finance, it’s not just about the analysis, it’s about what you do with it and how you communicate it to others.” - Soufyan Hamid
• “Storytelling in finance is essential because it helps non-financial people understand the business impact behind the numbers.” - Soufyan Hamid
• “You need to focus on what’s important to your audience, not just what you think is important in the data.” - Soufyan Hamid

This episode underscores the power of clear, concise communication in transforming financial analysis into business value. Soufyan provides practical tips and frameworks, such as the "what, so what, now what" method, and shares actionable insights for FP&A professionals looking to make a greater impact.

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Follow Soufyan:

Website - www.thefinancecircle.com

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

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

[01:38] – Introduction to the episode

[04:04] – What makes great FP&A today

[05:30] – Key lessons from auditing

[08:10] – A passion for finance business partnering

[12:08] – Soufyan’s transition to entrepreneurship

[18:59] – Discovering the power of storytelling

[27:24] – The four-step framework for presentations

[40:56] – Standard FP&A questions and insights

[46:36] – Personal insights: hobbies and favorite book

[52:18] – Closing and how to connect

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst dives deep into the world of Quality of Earnings (QofE) with expert guest Patrick McMillan, a seasoned CFO and transaction advisor. The conversation explores the intricacies of QofE, its importance in financial transactions, and the role it plays in assessing a company's financial health during mergers and acquisitions. Patrick shares real-world examples and insights into how financial professionals can use QofE to make informed decisions.

Patrick McMillan is a fractional CFO and transaction advisor at Amplēo, a Utah-based firm specializing in providing executive support to growing companies. With over two decades of experience in guiding businesses through periods of growth and M&A transactions, Patrick is known for his expertise in Quality of Earnings analysis. He brings a dynamic and passionate approach to finance, blending technical skill with strong storytelling abilities to help businesses navigate complex financial landscapes.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• The role of Quality of Earnings (QofE) in mergers and acquisitions, and how it differs from an audit.
• How to differentiate between non-recurring and operating items when analyzing financial statements.
• The importance of normalizing earnings for better understanding of a company’s performance.
• Why soft skills like communication and storytelling are crucial in financial analysis.
• Insights into how personal finance modeling can improve your financial modeling skills.

Here are a few quotes from Patrick McMillan:

• "Quality of earnings isn't just an audit; it shows you how and why a company is performing in a certain way." - Patrick McMillan
• "Understanding non-operating and non-recurring items is crucial to a quality of earnings report." - Patrick McMillan
• "Patience is the most important lesson I’ve learned in my career, especially in communication." - Patrick McMillan
• "Modeling your own personal finances is a great way to practice financial modeling skills." - Patrick McMillan

With actionable advice on financial modeling, transaction strategies, and lessons learned from his personal experiences, Patrick’s insights will resonate with professionals looking to sharpen their financial skills and improve decision-making in dynamic business environments.

Follow Patrick:

• Website - https://ampleo.com/contact/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickmcmillan/

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: 

[01:10] - Introduction to Patrick McMillan

[04:25] - Worst Financial Model Story

[07:30] - Quality of Earnings vs. Audits

[09:30] - Identifying Non-Recurring vs. Operating Items

[13:31] - Patrick’s Journey to Becoming the "QofE Guy"

[17:57] - The technical understanding of QofE

[24:51] - Patrick’s decision for MBA

[29:56] - Importance of soft skills in QofE

[35:20] - Rapid-Fire Financial Modeling Tips

[38:44] - Personal Insights: Mountain Biking and Life Lessons

In this special episode, Paul Barnhurst, aka the FP&A Guy, recaps key insights from the past six months of interviews on the "FP&A Tomorrow" podcast. He reflects on the soft and technical skills needed for financial planning and analysis (FP&A) professionals, shares standout advice from his expert guests, and dives into what makes great FP&A.

Paul Barnhurst, known as the FP&A Guy, is a finance professional with years of experience in the field of FP&A. Through his podcast, Paul brings in thought leaders to share their expertise, providing actionable advice for finance professionals looking to level up their skills. The episode is packed with tips from top CFOs, finance leaders, and FP&A professionals who have shaped the field.

Expect to Learn:

• Learn the human skills that will help you collaborate better and drive impact in your organization.
• Discover why financial modeling, Excel mastery, and understanding data are critical for FP&A success.
• Hear expert perspectives on what makes FP&A teams truly world-class, with an emphasis on technology, data, and strategy.
• How to translate complex financial data into actionable insights that your business partners can easily understand.
• Why anticipating business needs and solving complex problems are vital traits for anyone in finance.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "In FP&A, communication skills are crucial because you're translating complex finance into actionable insights." - Paul Barnhurst
• "Learning to simplify is an art. Great FP&A professionals can take complex models and make them understandable." - Paul Barnhurst
• "Understanding data architecture has been huge in my career—knowing how systems work together can set you apart." - Paul Barnhurst
• "Great FP&A comes down to having the right people with the right skills, all working toward the same goal." - Paul Barnhurst

From mastering technical skills like financial modeling to honing soft skills like empathy and storytelling, Paul highlights how FP&A professionals can drive real business impact. By empowering teams with data, communicating clearly, and anticipating future needs, FP&A becomes more than just a financial function—it becomes a strategic partner to the business.

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

[01:29] – Introduction and overview

[03:27] – Key soft skills in FP&A

[09:44] – Essential technical skills

[15:50] – Personal dinner choices

[20:10] – Defining great FP&A

[26:25] – Courses and training for FP&A

[31:41] – Business partnering in FP&A

[36:37] – Final reflections and wrap up

In this episode of the Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper do an in-depth analysis of the transformative role of AI in finance with Nicolas Boucher. With AI becoming increasingly central to the finance industry, this conversation explores how generative AI and automation are reshaping the future of financial operations, decision-making, and business strategy.

Nicolas Boucher is a finance expert and the founder of AI Finance Club, a platform dedicated to educating finance professionals about the integration of AI into their workflows. With over 15 years of experience in global finance positions at firms like PwC and Thales, Nicolas has trained more than 5,000 finance professionals. He shares his passion for AI and finance, emphasizing the importance of AI tools like ChatGPT, Python, and generative AI in driving efficiency and innovation in the finance world.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How AI and generative tools like ChatGPT can help finance professionals streamline tasks and enhance productivity.
• The importance of debiasing AI models and ensuring fairness in AI-driven decisions.
• How to incorporate Python and automation into finance operations to accelerate workflows.
• Practical insights on how companies can integrate AI without needing vast data science teams.
• The future of citizen developers in finance and the democratization of coding with AI tools.

In this episode, Nicolas Boucher discusses the vast potential of AI in finance, from automating mundane tasks to empowering professionals with tools that enhance productivity and decision-making. Ultimately, while AI is revolutionizing finance, human expertise, creativity, and strategic thinking will remain irreplaceable.

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:

[01:57] Addressing bias in AI and its impact

[06:25] Your Job is Safe (for Now)

[09:50] Introduction to guest Nicolas Boucher

[13:41] AI in day-to-day business

[17:53] Generative AI and Python in finance

[25:01] AI tools for finance professionals

[30:02] Citizen developers and AI in SMBs

[35:14] How to stay ahead in AI

[40:02] Random questions segment

[46:18] Conclusion and final thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Ruby Liu, Director at KPMG Australia’s Valuation Team, to dive into intricacies of financial modeling. Having led KPMG Australia’s Sydney modeling team and worked as the head of corporate finance in the energy sector, Ruby’s vast experience spans from transactional modeling for infrastructure assets to advising clients on valuation and capital raising. Ruby Liu brings over 16 years of professional expertise in corporate finance, financial modeling, and valuations.

This episode offers practical insights on managing complex financial models, optimizing processes, and the challenges of transitioning models from transactional to operational use. Ruby’s guidance provides a valuable learning opportunity on how to build efficient and user-friendly financial models. Her deep knowledge and hands-on experience make her a key voice in the field of financial modeling.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• The key differences between transactional and operational models and how to adapt them for long-term use.
• Why keeping the model user in mind is crucial for building effective financial models.
• Ruby’s top strategies for creating models that are simple, visually appealing, and efficient in calculation speed.
• Insights into the challenges of working with large, complex models and how to manage issues.
• How Ruby’s experiences at KPMG shaped her understanding of the financial modeling landscape.

Here are a few quotes from Ruby Liu:

• "The most efficient model isn’t the one with the most complex formulas, but the one that’s easy to understand and use." - Ruby Liu
• "In financial modeling, the goal is to fit the user’s purpose, not dazzle them with complexity." - Ruby Liu
• "I think AI can help build models, but we’ll still need human oversight to interpret the results." - Ruby Liu

In this insightful episode, Ruby Liu offers a masterclass in financial modeling. From her candid reflections on the pitfalls of overly complex models to the importance of keeping the end user in mind, Ruby’s practical advice is invaluable for both novice and seasoned modelers alike.

Follow Ruby Liu:

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

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:

[01:13] - Introduction to the episode and guest

[03:01] - Worst financial model and lessons learned

[08:28] - Ruby reflects on her evolving perspective on the industry

[12:47] - Ruby’s leadership experience at KPMG’s Sydney team

[16:47] - Insights into Ruby’s current role in valuations

[22:14] - Different valuation methods; income and market approaches

[25:57] - Converting transactional models into operational ones

[41:16] - Rapid fire questions segment with Ruby

[47:49] - Advice for modelers and contact information

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst interviews Brian Lanier, a seasoned CFO with extensive experience in financial planning and analysis (FP&A) across multiple industries, including SaaS, technology, and healthcare. The discussion revolves around how FP&A can evolve from just reporting numbers to becoming a key partner in driving business decisions and transformations. Brian shares insights from his journey in private equity-backed companies, turnarounds, and M&A activities.

Brian Lanier is a CFO who has held financial leadership roles in multiple growth-stage companies. With a career that started at EY as an auditor, he has since moved into CFO roles across public, private, and private equity-owned companies. His expertise includes introducing companies to their first budgeting processes, upgrading accounting systems, and overseeing over $7 billion in M&A transactions. His deep understanding of business levers and their impact has led to successful turnarounds and significant cost savings.

Expect to Learn:

• How FP&A has evolved from reporting to business partnering and transformation.
• The key components of a successful FP&A function, including operational alignment.
• The role of data and its quality in making sound financial decisions.
• Strategies for managing financials during mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures.
• The importance of flexibility and simplicity when creating financial models and budgets.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “Great FP&A starts off with partnership with the company itself. It’s about more than reporting numbers.” - Brian Lanier
• “I build my models with flexibility in mind, so if things change, you can quickly adjust without having to start from scratch.” - Brian Lanier
• “Data is critical, but a lot of companies don’t have clean data. The first step is cleaning it up so you can make informed decisions.” - Brian Lanier
• “Predictability is essential in FP&A. The more predictable you can make your revenue and expenses, the better decisions you can make.” - Brian Lanier

From his hands-on experience in growth-stage companies and M&A activities, Brian emphasizes the importance of understanding key business levers, fostering collaboration, and building flexible financial models that can evolve with the company. His deep dive into topics such as budgeting, pricing strategies, and operational alignment offers listeners practical advice on how FP&A can be a strategic partner in business transformation.

Follow Brian:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianlanier1/

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

[01:34] - Introduction of the episode and guest

[03:31] - What makes great FP&A?

[06:15] - First 90 days as a CFO

[10:49] - Real-life examples of pricing and margins

[16:43] - Balancing optimism in sales forecasting

[21:39] - Tying operations to financials

[27:03] - Brian’s approach of understanding the business

[31:56] - Advice for building a robust budget model

[37:44] – M&A and Turnarounds

[41:18] - Key skills for FP&A professionals

[49:26] - Final thoughts and contact information

In this special solo episode, host Paul Barnhurst, also known as "The FP&A Guy," reflects on key insights gathered from past episodes of Financial Modeler’s Corner. With over 40 episodes under his belt, Paul dives into recurring rapid-fire questions posed to expert financial modelers worldwide. From circular references to VBA use and Excel's future, this episode offers valuable wisdom on the art and science of financial modeling.

Paul Barnhurst, an accomplished financial modeling professional and host of the podcast, takes center stage. Paul is the founder of “The FP&A Guy” and has earned the prestigious Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) certification from the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI). His wealth of experience and insights makes this solo episode both engaging and informative.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• The most common preferences of expert financial modelers on key technical decisions.
• Why dynamic arrays and other Excel functions are becoming increasingly important, and the pace of their adoption.
• Insights into how artificial intelligence (AI) could impact financial modeling and whether it will replace human modelers.
• The importance of good design principles in financial models, as shared by leading financial modeling experts.
• Fun and practical Excel shortcuts used by seasoned modelers to boost efficiency and accuracy.

Here are a few quotes from Paul in this episode:

• "Circular references are dangerous because most people don’t really understand what’s going on, and it can lead to other errors in your model." - Paul Barnhurst
• "If at all possible, don’t use VBA in your model. The less you use it, the simpler the model is." - Paul Barnhurst
• "I’m of the belief that AI will build models for us. It’s a question of when, not if." - Paul Barnhurst

In this special solo episode, Paul Barnhurst takes a moment to reflect on the lessons learned from over 40 episodes of Financial Modeler’s Corner. He shares key takeaways from the rapid-fire questions posed to some of the top financial modelers in the world, offering a wealth of advice on best practices, common pitfalls, and emerging trends in financial modeling. As always, he invites listeners to reach out with feedback, questions, and guest suggestions, reinforcing the show's commitment to fostering a global community of financial modeling enthusiasts.

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:

[01:09] - Introduction and background

[03:18] - Circular references in models

[04:55] - VBA in financial models

[06:45] - Dynamic arrays: the future of excel?

[16:50] - Will excel ever die?

[18:16] - AI and financial modeling

[20:31] - Financial models as corporate decision-making tools

[22:26] - Favorite excel shortcuts from top financial modelers

[30:34] - Closing thoughts and invitation to audience

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, Paul Barnhurst interviews Jack McCullough to discuss the evolving landscape of FP&A and the changing role of CFOs. They explore the journey from FP&A to CFO roles, the strategic importance of finance today, and how CFOs are transitioning into broader leadership roles such as CEO. With insights into board management, leadership, and career growth, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the finance function's future.

Jack McCullough is a recognized authority in the world of finance leadership. As President of the CFO Leadership Council, Jack has guided countless CFOs through leadership development and strategic decision-making. He holds an MBA from MIT, is the host of the podcast Secrets of Rockstar CFOs, and is the author of two books, including The Psychopathic CEO. With a background in accounting and finance, Jack brings deep expertise in helping finance professionals thrive in leadership roles.

Expect to Learn:

• The key skills FP&A professionals need to develop to become future CFOs.
• How the role of CFO has shifted from financial control to strategic leadership.
• The importance of building strong relationships with board members and using them as resources.
• Insights into creating effective board presentations that align with audience expectations.
• Leadership qualities that define successful CFOs and finance leaders.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "FP&A is all about the future—how to consider it, prepare for it, and react when things go off course." - Jack McCullough
• "Empathy is one of the most underrated leadership skills for CFOs."  - Jack McCullough
• "When you see a problem no one else sees, and you solve it, that’s real value-add."  - Jack McCullough

In this episode, Jack McCullough provides a clear vision of the evolving role of CFOs and offers a wealth of knowledge on navigating the complexities of modern finance. His practical advice on building relationships with the board, crafting effective presentations, and honing leadership qualities such as empathy and transparency are invaluable for finance professionals at every level.

Follow Jack:

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

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

Visit Abacum - The Ultimate FP&A Solution

The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Abacum, the leading mid-market FP&A solution trusted by hundreds of companies to eliminate the spreadsheet struggle. https://www.abacum.io

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

[01:32] Introduction to the episode and guest

[02:54] The role of FP&A in today’s finance world

[04:03] The Shift in the CFO role

[08:33] Stories from Jack’s Podcast World

[11:17] Mastering the key principles behind board deck

[13:46] Building relationships with board members

[18:09] Optimism vs. Realism in leadership

[22:53] Jack’s book “The Psychopathic CEO”

[34:47] Essential leadership qualities for CFOs

[39:09] Key technical and soft skills for FP&A

[45:26] Jack’s personal life and fitness insights

[52:19] Closing remarks and contact information

In this episode of Future Finance Show, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper dive deep into the revolutionary impact of generative AI on industries, with a particular focus on its implications in finance. They explore how AI transforms workflows, enhances productivity, and shifts the focus from tasks to higher-level thinking. The conversation breaks down common misconceptions about AI, such as the overhyped role of “prompt engineering,” and emphasizes how businesses can integrate AI while maintaining data privacy and security.

Conor Grennan, the guest of this episode, is the Chief AI Architect at NYU Stern School of Business and the founder of AI Mindset, a company helping leaders adopt AI effectively. Beyond AI, Conor is a New York Times best-selling author, recognized globally for his humanitarian work. His expertise lies not only in AI implementation but also in helping non-technical individuals understand and utilize AI's potential.

In this episode, you will discover:

• The reality behind generative AI myths and why prompt engineering is overrated.
• How AI transforms jobs by automating tasks, not replacing roles.
• Ways finance professionals can balance AI efficiency with data privacy concerns.
• Why adopting an AI mindset is crucial for leveraging its full potential.
• How embracing AI in your work can give you a competitive edge in your career.

For finance professionals interested in harnessing the power of generative AI while balancing efficiency and security, this episode offers practical insights and frameworks. Conor Grennan’s unique blend of technical knowledge and relatable, human-centered teaching makes this a must-listen for anyone looking to stay ahead in the AI revolution.

Follow Conor:

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

Website: conorgrennan.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://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:

[01:59] - Concerns about data privacy in AI

[08:32] - Introduction of Conor Grennan

[10:10] - Conor's background and AI journey

[12:40] - The role of a chief AI architect

[16:42] - The truth about prompt engineering

[20:54] - The AI mindset and learning curve

[27:55] - AI’s impact on jobs

[35:23] - Conor's AI course and framework

[37:29] - Conor’s book: Little Princess

[42:47] - Conclusion and final thoughts