GrowCFO Show

#228 The Confidence Code: Secrets to Owning Every Room with Susana Serrano Davey https://open.spotify.com/episode/393rj0qXYpByeuWWjgoC5i Confidence is a critical yet often misunderstood element of professional success. In today’s competitive business landscape, understanding the nuanced dynamics of self-assurance can be the difference between breakthrough performance and persistent self-doubt. Susana Serrano Davey, a GrowCFO Mentor, emerges as a thought leader challenging conventional wisdom about personal empowerment through her groundbreaking book, “Confidence is Overrated.” Her work represents a paradigm shift, moving beyond traditional self-help narratives to offer a more authentic, introspective approach to professional development. At the core of Davey’s philosophy is the radical notion that confidence is not a prerequisite for achievement, but rather an organic outcome of genuine self-acceptance and continuous learning. By deconstructing the myth of performative confidence, she introduces innovative frameworks that encourage professionals to embrace vulnerability, take calculated risks, and view personal growth as a non-linear journey. Her methodology, enriched by personal anecdotes and metaphorical insights—ranging from mushroom hunting to unicorn symbolism—provides a refreshing alternative to conventional confidence-building strategies. Through her work, Davey empowers individuals to reframe their understanding of success, emphasizing internal resilience over external validation and demonstrating how true professional transformation emerges from self-compassion and persistent curiosity. Key topics covered: Challenging Traditional Confidence Paradigms Redefines confidence as an internal journey rather than external validation Emphasizes self-acceptance over performative achievement Introduces innovative metaphors like unicorns and mushroom hunting to illustrate personal growth concepts Book Development Insights Leveraged AI tools like ChatGPT for manuscript refinement Incorporated early feedback from zero readers Developed a more mature, professionally structured narrative compared to her first book Personal Growth Strategies Advocates for embracing uncertainty and taking calculated risks Promotes the value of continuous learning and adaptability Shares personal stories demonstrating vulnerability and resilience Technological Integration in Writing Utilized AI as a collaborative writing assistant Maintained human emotional authenticity in storytelling Explored AI’s potential and limitations in creative processes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8myIm2OdbA Links Susana Serrano Davey on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:01:14 Initial conversational setup 0:06:36 Book introduction and core concept 0:10:07 Discussion on skill acquisition vs. confidence 0:12:30 Metaphorical exploration of confidence 0:16:13 Personal project discussion (mango farm) 0:20:08 Podcasting journey reflection 0:24:23 Confidence as an end result, not a starting point 0:35:37 Unmasking professional confidence 0:39:07 AI’s role in book creation 0:42:33 Closing remarks and future collaboration Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#227 How to Choose the Right Tech Stack Without Wasting Money with Tim Cadbury https://open.spotify.com/episode/4mVO2Gtl2Vx5bQmDNuWfTi In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, selecting the right technology stack is critical for organizational success and financial efficiency. The strategic selection of technological tools can make or break a company’s operational effectiveness, directly impacting its growth trajectory and competitive positioning. This podcast episode featuring Tim Cadbury, a fractional CFO at InfiniteCFO, delves deep into the nuanced world of tech stack selection for high-growth businesses. Cadbury brings a wealth of experience from corporate giants like ITV and the dynamic startup ecosystem, offering listeners invaluable insights into navigating the complex terrain of technological infrastructure selection. Key discussion points revolve around the challenges businesses face when choosing technological solutions, the importance of scalability, and the need for adaptable systems that can grow with an organization. Cadbury emphasizes that tech stack selection is not a one-size-fits-all approach but a strategic decision requiring careful consideration of current needs and future growth potential. The conversation provides a comprehensive exploration of how fractional CFOs like Cadbury help businesses make informed technological investments, leveraging their extensive experience and understanding of various industry ecosystems. By sharing practical examples and strategic approaches, the podcast offers a roadmap for businesses seeking to optimize their technological investments without unnecessary expenditure. About Tim Cadbury Tim supports high growth businesses with a CFO-led virtual finance function. In his 3 years at InfiniteCFO, he’s helped businesses in B2B SaaS, Cyber, LegalTech, AdTech, InsureTech, and Software. Successful projects include fundraises, M&A and finance transformations. Previously, Tim spent 13 years at ITV plc, including roles in Investor Relations, as Group Head of FP&A and as Finance Director for the £2bn advertising business. He spent 4 years out of finance growing the technology business SDN to >£65m profit, which included negotiating all commercial contracts and running the tech team. He was also a Director of D34, a joint venture with Channel 4 which transmits all the UK’s commercial Public Service Broadcasters.  Tim qualified as an ACA with KPMG London. Key topics covered: Fractional CFO approach to supporting high-growth technology businesses Strategic importance of selecting scalable technological infrastructure Leveraging Xero and complementary ecosystem tools for financial management Role of AI and automation in streamlining repetitive financial tasks Importance of understanding business-specific technological requirements Balancing current technological needs with future growth potential Navigating fundraising and due diligence with robust technological systems Developing comprehensive financial strategies through intelligent tech selection Continuous learning and adaptation in technological ecosystem Value of professional networks in making informed technological decisions https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auEV4K6aMyE&t=2s Links Tim Cadbury  on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:05:59 – Professional background introduction 0:10:38 – Career progression at ITV 0:16:50 – Transition to fractional CFO role 0:22:13 – Tech stack selection strategies 0:28:48 – Scalability of financial systems 0:34:18 – Comprehensive financial operations approach 0:37:03 – Fundraising landscape insights 0:40:22 – Impact of professional development programs 0:45:09 – Future career perspective Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#226 AI, Accounting & The Modern CFO with Francesco Zappala https://open.spotify.com/episode/0tFFZr6v55eoOv3NmRmYYC In the rapidly evolving landscape of corporate finance, artificial intelligence (AI) stands as a transformative force reshaping the role of modern financial leadership. The integration of AI technologies presents unprecedented opportunities for CFOs to revolutionize traditional financial processes, drive strategic decision-making, and unlock new levels of organizational efficiency. As businesses navigate the complex digital transformation, AI emerges as a critical tool that transcends mere technological implementation, representing a fundamental shift in how financial strategies are conceptualized and executed. Francesco Zappala, Chief Financial Officer for South America at Impresa Pizzerotti, provides a nuanced perspective on AI’s strategic potential, emphasizing that successful implementation goes far beyond technological adoption. His insights reveal that the true power of AI lies in its ability to augment human expertise, streamline routine tasks, and enable finance professionals to focus on high-value strategic activities. By advocating for a holistic approach that integrates change management, comprehensive training, and robust risk assessment, Zappala challenges executives to view AI not as a replacement for human intelligence, but as a sophisticated collaborative tool that can dramatically enhance organizational performance and competitive advantage. Key topics covered: AI represents a paradigm shift in financial operations, distinguishing between classic and generative AI technologies Strategic implementation requires comprehensive organizational assessment and change management Data management emerges as a critical foundation for successful AI integration CFOs must balance technological innovation with risk mitigation and strategic planning User involvement and training are crucial for successful AI adoption Predictive and narrative AI tools offer significant value-creation potential Organizations must develop a multi-provider approach to manage technological risks AI should be viewed as a supportive tool, not a replacement for human expertise Change management requires a holistic approach involving all organizational levels Continuous learning and adaptability are key to leveraging AI effectively https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4JrTWr9H2E Links Francesco Zappala  on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:01:28 – Initial technical audio setup and equipment discussion 0:06:21 – Introduction of AI adoption challenges in corporate environments 0:14:02 – Exploring differences between classic and generative AI 0:29:10 – Discussing potential AI applications in financial forecasting 0:42:28 – Addressing data privacy and security concerns 0:50:52 – Practical implementation strategies for AI in finance 0:56:43 – Training and development considerations for AI integration 1:00:36 – Historical perspective on technological transformation in finance 1:04:27 – Generational perspectives on technological adaptation 1:05:50 – Future outlook and continuous learning approach Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#225 The Future of B2B Payments: AI, Automation & Financial Innovation with Alex Louisy https://open.spotify.com/episode/3qy4Q5X2ZRjyzBfqhOA2Dl The B2B payments ecosystem represents a critical financial infrastructure that fundamentally determines an organization’s economic health and operational agility. In an increasingly digital and interconnected global marketplace, businesses are confronting unprecedented challenges in managing complex financial transactions, cash flow dynamics, and technological integration. The traditional paradigms of accounts receivable and payment processing are rapidly evolving, driven by technological innovations that promise to revolutionize how companies approach financial management. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced analytics are creating transformative opportunities for businesses to optimize their financial workflows, reduce operational risks, and gain unprecedented insights into their economic performance. In this illuminating podcast episode, Kevin Appleby engages in a comprehensive dialogue with Alex Louisy, the visionary Co-founder and CEO of Upflow, exploring the intricate landscape of business-to-business payment strategies and technological disruption. Louisy brings a unique Franco-American perspective, offering deep insights into the global variations of payment methodologies, technological adoption, and strategic financial management. The discussion transcends traditional financial discourse, delving into critical areas such as AI-driven automation, online payment methodologies, risk mitigation strategies, and the future of financial technology. By examining real-world data, industry trends, and practical implementation strategies, Appleby and Louisy provide business leaders and finance professionals with a sophisticated roadmap for navigating the complex and rapidly evolving world of B2B payments, emphasizing the critical importance of continuous innovation, technological adaptation, and strategic financial thinking. Key topics covered: Upflow’s innovative technology helps B2B companies optimize their cash collection processes Detailed insights from the B2B Payments Trends report revealing payment collection challenges Critical analysis of invoice aging and its impact on business financial health Exploration of online payment methods and their transformative potential The emerging role of AI in automating and enhancing financial workflows Strategies for reducing non-payment risks and improving accounts receivable Comparative perspectives on payment practices between US and European markets Impact of technological innovations on financial team efficiency Discussion of payment method diversification and customer payment experience Future outlook on AI’s role in financial process automation https://youtu.be/8Ta6pzF1MXc Links Alex Louisy on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:00:34 Initial introductions and market sentiment discussion 0:02:45 Exploring business expansion strategies 0:04:16 CFO training and AI technology trends 0:06:39 Research on AI’s impact in financial sectors 0:11:04 Detailed explanation of Upflow’s business model 0:19:44 Analysis of invoice payment risk factors 0:32:28 Online payment method strategies 0:38:26 Customer payment experience considerations 0:43:27 AI’s potential in financial process transformation 0:49:25 Reflections on technological evolution in finance Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#224 The Future of Finance: How Power BI and AI Are Redefining the CFO Role with Rishi Sapra https://open.spotify.com/episode/6sIeKqInI1Ur549AprBRnw Rishi Sapra, a GrowCFO Facilitator and Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP), brings a wealth of experience from top-tier financial institutions to demystify the power of business intelligence technologies. Through his expertise, finance professionals can understand how advanced analytics platforms are not just technological tools, but strategic assets that can drive organizational performance and competitive advantage. The podcast explores the intricate world of Power BI, showcasing how modern finance professionals can leverage data visualization, automation, and AI-driven insights to make more informed decisions. By bridging the gap between complex technical capabilities and practical business applications, Sapra provides a comprehensive overview of how emerging technologies are reshaping the financial analysis landscape. This session offers a deep dive into the transformative potential of Power BI, illustrating how finance leaders can move beyond traditional reporting to create dynamic, interactive, and intelligent financial narratives that drive strategic decision-making. Key topics covered: Power BI’s role in creating comprehensive semantic models for financial data The importance of context and storytelling in financial reporting Automation capabilities that streamline financial data processing Integration of AI and copilot technologies in financial analytics Practical approaches to building interactive financial dashboards Bridging the gap between technical complexity and business value The future of data management through unified platforms Strategies for handling diverse skill levels in financial technology training The critical role of education in adopting advanced analytics tools Transforming financial reporting from static to dynamic insights https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guXnwOwe0_s&t=7s Links Rishi Sapra on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:03:22 Initial introductions and background context 0:06:37 Podcast formal introduction 0:08:37 Discussion of Power BI teaching approach 0:11:30 Motivation for teaching technical subjects 0:13:58 Experiential learning in technical training 0:20:34 Power BI’s core functionalities in financial reporting 0:31:14 Course structure and content details 0:38:13 Future trends in Power BI and AI integration 0:41:11 Historical challenges in performance management 0:45:56 Concluding insights on technology and education Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#223 Streamlining Success: The Key to Sustainable Growth with Karina Rasic https://open.spotify.com/episode/7aOwo254gene5On21geffe Karina Rasic, CEO and Business Strategy Consultant at Make Business Flow, shares her insights on the challenges and strategies for helping female-led companies succeed in fundraising. Accessing capital is a critical issue for entrepreneurs, and Karina’s experience in working with women-owned businesses provides valuable perspectives on addressing this problem. In this episode of the Grow CFO Show, Karina discusses the cultural and educational differences that impact financial literacy in Latin America, particularly the contrast between Protestant and Catholic views on money and work. She explains how these factors create unique obstacles for women seeking to build and grow their businesses. Karina’s approach to supporting her clients involves empowering them to present their ventures in a more confident, “male-like” manner to potential investors. She highlights the importance of financial education, her strategies for helping female founders overcome fundraising challenges, and her own entrepreneurial journey. She also shares details about her two companies – one providing fractional CFO services and the other, a legal services platform. Karina’s passion for writing and her plans for the future, including a program to help retirees start new businesses, provide a well-rounded perspective on her multifaceted career. Karina and Kevin Appleby explore the potential for growth in the Latin American market for fractional CFO services, as well as the challenges of finding qualified professionals in the region. Karina’s commitment to making a positive impact and her belief in the power of entrepreneurship to drive change are evident in her words and actions. About Karina Rasic: Karina is an accomplished project manager with extensive experience in financial analysis, digital marketing, and business development. Karina specializes in CFO fractional services, financial assessments for startups, and securing funding—particularly for businesses founded and led by women. Currently, she leads initiatives at Make Businesses Flow, focusing on streamlining operations and enhancing business performance. With a strong ability to manage cross-functional teams and implement data-driven strategies, Karina is dedicated to driving organizational success and sustainable growth. Key topics covered: Karina’s background as an Argentinian with a mix of Spanish and American accents The cultural and religious differences that impact financial literacy in Latin America Karina’s work in helping women-led companies with fundraising and presenting their businesses Her two companies: a fractional CFO service and a legal services platform Karina’s passion for writing and her plans for the future, including a program to help retirees start new businesses The potential for growth in the Latin American market for fractional CFO services and the challenges of finding qualified professionals https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGURhtRgtDs Links Karina Rasic on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:06:07 Karina’s background and accent 0:07:21 Karina’s two companies 0:10:26 Cultural differences in finance education 0:12:38 Karina’s focus on working with women 0:15:04 Common problems Karina helps clients with 0:18:54 Fundraising challenges for female-led companies 0:24:51 Karina’s role as a personal mentor to founders 0:30:02 Karina’s legal services platform 0:35:05 Karina’s definition of success 0:37:37 Karina’s plans for the future Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#222 Master the Art of Financial Product Design with Siqi Chen https://open.spotify.com/episode/019MLgaVF4N7jNvm2Ek910 Mastering the art of financial product design is a crucial skill for finance professionals in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. In this insightful podcast episode, Kevin sits down with Siqi Chen, the Founder and CFO of Runway, to explore the challenges and opportunities in creating innovative finance software. The discussion delves into the limitations of traditional finance tools, the importance of user-centric design, and the transformative potential of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Siqi Chen shares his diverse background, from his studies in mathematics to her experience working at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Siqi recounts his journey as a serial entrepreneur, highlighting the challenges she faced in understanding finance and the inspiration behind founding Runway, a finance software company aimed at revolutionizing the way businesses approach financial management. They delve into the unique features and design principles that set Runway apart from traditional finance tools. Siqi explains how Runway’s focus on collaboration, data visualization, and seamless integration with other business systems addresses the pain points experienced by finance teams. The discussion also explores the role of ambient intelligence and artificial intelligence in enhancing the user experience and providing proactive insights. Kevin and Siqi also discuss the potential for collaboration between their respective organizations, exploring opportunities for joint webinars, summits, and other initiatives. The shared enthusiasm for innovation in the finance space sets the stage for a continued dialogue and the exploration of new ways to empower finance professionals in their quest to drive business success. Key topics covered: Siqi Chen’s diverse background and his journey as a serial entrepreneur The limitations of traditional finance tools and the inspiration behind founding Runway Runway’s focus on collaboration, data visualization, and seamless integration The role of ambient intelligence and artificial intelligence in enhancing the user experience Potential for collaboration between Grow CFO and Runway, including joint webinars and summits Runway’s pricing and target market for mid-market companies Siqi Chen’s emphasis on the importance of user-centric design in finance software Runway’s unique features, such as fine-grained permission controls and the ability to encrypt sensitive data The potential of finance software to revolutionize the way businesses approach financial management The shared enthusiasm for innovation and the exploration of new opportunities in the finance space https://youtu.be/79XXRP-gKCk Links Siqi Chen on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:03:14 – Initial greetings and discussion of partnership opportunities 0:05:09 – Siqi Chen’s background and the founding of Runway 0:08:53 – Challenges in finance and the need for better tools 0:13:04 – Runway’s unique approach and features 0:16:52 – Runway’s focus on collaboration and data visualization 0:20:59 – The role of ambient intelligence and artificial intelligence in Runway 0:26:55 – Runway’s integration with other business systems and workflows 0:32:28 – Runway’s pricing and target market 0:35:20 – Siqi Chen’s emphasis on user-centric design 0:47:18 – Potential for collaboration between Grow CFO and Runway Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#221 The Ultimate Guide to Cost-Smart Property Management with Scot Ginsburg https://open.spotify.com/episode/31KM37M8HM8JHmbZPtm203 Property management is a critical aspect of business operations, with real estate often representing one of the largest fixed costs for organizations. In this podcast episode, Scot Ginsburg, Executive Managing Director at Hughes Marino, shares his expertise on navigating the complexities of commercial real estate and optimizing property-related expenses. The discussion covers a range of topics, highlighting the importance of strategic planning, lease negotiations, and the evolving landscape of office and retail spaces. Ginsburg emphasizes the need for finance leaders, particularly Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), to take an active role in managing their organization’s real estate portfolio, as it can have a significant impact on the bottom line. Key topics covered: The importance of aligning real estate strategy with overall business objectives Common pitfalls in lease negotiations and how to avoid them The impact of remote work and changing office space utilization Strategies for managing a portfolio of commercial properties The role of CFOs in overseeing real estate decisions The financial implications of rising interest rates on commercial real estate The evolution of retail and office spaces in the digital age The need for flexibility and adaptability in real estate planning The value of proactive real estate management in driving business success Effective marketing and audience engagement strategies for thought leadership content https://youtu.be/q2aJobfj6Mo Links Scot Ginsburg on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:00:00 – Introduction to the guest and the topic 0:05:00 – Aligning real estate strategy with business objectives 0:10:30 – Avoiding common mistakes in lease negotiations 0:15:45 – Adapting to the impact of remote work on office space 0:20:00 – Strategies for managing a diverse real estate portfolio 0:25:15 – The role of CFOs in overseeing real estate decisions 0:30:00 – The financial implications of rising interest rates 0:35:20 – The evolution of retail and office spaces 0:40:00 – The need for flexibility in real estate planning 0:45:00 – Effective marketing and audience engagement strategies Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

# 220 Financial Modelling Done Right: Expert Tips with Danielle Stein Fairhurst https://open.spotify.com/episode/6sSbm92dhd0BaEzD91LJPp Financial modelling is a critical skill for finance professionals, enabling them to analyze data, forecast scenarios, and make informed business decisions. In this podcast episode, Danielle Stein Fairhurst, a renowned financial modelling expert and GrowCFO Mentor, shares her insights and best practices on mastering the art of financial modelling. Danielle’s extensive experience in the field, including her work as a Microsoft MVP and the author of several books on financial modelling, makes her a valuable resource for finance professionals looking to enhance their skills. Throughout the conversation, she delves into the importance of financial modelling, the evolution of Excel as a tool, and the key techniques and strategies that can help professionals create robust and efficient models. The podcast covers a wide range of topics related to financial modelling, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Danielle’s expertise and passion for the topic are evident as she discusses the various aspects of financial modelling, from best practices to the latest industry trends and developments. Key topics covered: Danielle’s background and journey into financial modelling The importance of best practices in financial modelling, such as consistent formula usage and leveraging new Excel features The Excel World Cup and the financial modelling world championship, where Danielle serves as a commentator The GrowCFO financial modelling course and its structure, covering topics like financial statement linking and scenario analysis https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-8uJgv4w_I Links Danielle Stein Fairhurst on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:15:21 Danielle’s journey into financial modelling 0:19:38 Discussing common bad habits in financial modelling and how the GrowCFO course addresses them 0:28:59 The upcoming Excel and financial modelling world championships and the debates surrounding modelling best practices 0:35:00 The structure and delivery of the GrowCFO financial modelling course 0:41:45 The excitement and passion surrounding the world of financial modelling 0:42:35 Danielle’s upcoming participation in the global Excel summit 0:43:42 Danielle’s recognition as a master financial modeller with the Financial Modelling Institute 0:44:10 Discussing affiliate opportunities and discount codes for the GrowCFO financial modelling course 0:46:39 Strategies for promoting the GrowCFO course and engaging with past attendees 0:48:14 The challenge of getting people to recognize the value of free training offerings Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

# 219 Celebrating 5 Years of Driving Change for Finance Leaders with Dan Wells https://open.spotify.com/episode/1mgQkjEkaaBVBghRye7nhD Celebrating its 5th anniversary, the GrowCFO podcast takes a deep dive into the remarkable journey of the finance community platform. Led by founder and CEO Dan Wells, this special episode reflects on the evolution of the business, the key milestones, and the vision for the future. As a purpose-driven startup that has transformed into a leading resource for finance professionals worldwide, GrowCFO’s story offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. Throughout the conversation, Dan and Kevin explore the challenges and triumphs that have shaped the GrowCFO narrative over the past five years. From the initial community-focused vision to the pivotal shift towards virtual and global expansion, the podcast delves into the strategic decisions, innovative programs, and the power of a dedicated team and supportive community. Key topics covered: The evolution of GrowCFO’s business model, from community-based to virtual and global The launch and success of flagship programs like the Future CFO and CFO programs The transition to experiential learning and the impact of the XLF (Experiential Learning for Finance) initiative The importance of mentoring, partnerships, and the diverse team of experts that have contributed to GrowCFO’s growth The key learnings and challenges faced by the startup, including the willingness to pivot and the power of purpose-driven leadership The future vision for GrowCFO, focusing on strategic finance, technology integration, and empowering finance teams https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prCNHnQyBDI&t=55s Links Dan Wells on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:00:22 – Introduction and discussion of the 5-year anniversary 0:00:44 – Reflecting on the early days and the launch of the business 0:04:29 – Discussing the initial community-focused vision and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic 0:08:05 – Exploring the evolution of the business model and the importance of mentoring 0:12:24 – Introducing the CFO program and the role of mentors 0:17:23 – Transitioning to experiential learning and the success of the XLF program 0:23:35 – Discussing the key learnings and challenges faced over the past 5 years 0:29:37 – Partnerships with tech companies and the transformation of the finance function 0:35:28 – Future vision and objectives for the next 5 years 0:39:30 – Closing remarks and a special offer for the community Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net