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

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

Expect to Learn:

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

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

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

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

The AFP FP&A Forum:

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

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

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

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

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

Follow Ron:

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

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

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

Planning in BI Showcase:

Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms. Now, with business intelligence tools you can integrate planning directly into your BI system. Join Paul on March 20th for the Planning in BI Showcase, where industry leaders will demonstrate how top BI tools are reshaping strategic planning. See firsthand how modern FP&A solutions can drive real value across your enterprise. Don’t miss out!

Register today for free at https://bit.ly/4aLzEe0

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[30:23] - Practical Advice for Career Shifts

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

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