Join us as we explore the ever-evolving intersection of technology and business models with our insightful guest, Dan Lawrence from Bots for that. This week, we're peering into the future with the Apple Vision Pro, an innovative AR headset that could revolutionize the way we work in finance. Microsoft's leap to ensure Office compatibility with this tech is just the tip of the iceberg. But it's not all business; we also reflect on the challenge and necessity of a tech detox, sharing personal anecdotes about the struggle to unplug in a world where digital is king. Listen in as we discuss the intriguing possibilities of AI-enabled search tools like Perplexity and Arc Search, which are set to transform how we browse the web. Imagine navigating spreadsheets with a mere glance or finding the most relevant information without wading through pages of search results. These advancements could spell a significant shift for advertising revenue models and the visibility of content online. As AI becomes increasingly integral to our lives, we question what this means for job roles and the balance between automation and human touch. Hear about the potential of AI to not just replace but augment human tasks in sales and beyond. We dive into how these technologies are becoming more personalized, capable of small talk, and learning from each interaction. We'll discuss how this impacts small and medium-sized businesses and the strategic advantages it can offer. Wrapping up, we tackle the concept of fractional learning and the benefits of embracing challenges, both professionally and personally. So, gear up for an episode packed with forward-thinking insights and lively banter with myself, Adam Shilton, and Dan Lawrence. -------SHOW NOTES------ Subscribe to the 'Tech for Finance' podcast - https://pod.link/1628188164 Subscribe to the 'Beanies in a Pod' Podcast - https://beaniesinapod.buzzsprout.com/ -------CHAPTERS------ (00:00) Apple Vision Pro (12:54) AI-Enabled Search and Job Replacement (26:07) AI in Sales and Business Augmentation (32:59) Future of AI and Job Roles (46:27) Fractional Learning (51:03) The Importance of Challenging Yourself Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Join Martin Zych, Jirav's CEO, as he discusses the shift from Excel to FP&A tools in financial planning, the role of fractional CFOs, and the art of simplifying complex data. Discover how strategic partnerships and clean financial books are essential for operational excellence. Dive into the importance of storytelling in decision-making and how integrating diverse data streams can revolutionize FP&A.

More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Listen in as we explore the dynamic intersection of artificial intelligence and finance, a domain that's rapidly evolving from its nascent stages of predictive analytics to the sophisticated applications of generative AI. We kick things off by discussing the breadth of AI tools now accessible to businesses big and small. From chatbots that can whip up Excel formulas to those that offer financial benchmarking, we cover how AI is not just for the big players anymore. Our conversation reveals how even individuals can harness these technologies for tasks like general ledger data analysis, making month-end processes a breeze and empowering problem-solving like never before. Join us as we delve into the cutting-edge integration of FP&A tools with AI platforms, taking inspiration from the groundbreaking work of finance trailblazers like Glenn Hopper. We get into the nitty-gritty of creating data visualizations through simple text commands and how live data feeds are reshaping financial forecasting. The discussion unveils the newfound agility in setting AI context and the concept of AI sourcing, which is set to redefine workforce optimization. Whether you're a finance professional or just curious about the industry's future, this conversation sheds light on the transformative capabilities of machine learning algorithms in data analysis and visualization. Wrapping up our episode, we ponder the future of AI in the finance sector and the implications for professional roles. As the industry adapts, we highlight the importance of upskilling and adopting a present-focused mindset to ease anxiety around technological advancements. Our advice to finance professionals is to embrace these tools to amplify their capabilities and productivity. Finally, we pay homage to thought leaders like Adam Shelton, who guide us through the ever-changing landscape of technology and finance, emphasizing the significance of community and early support in our collective learning journey. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that will leave you inspired to experiment with and integrate new technologies into your professional toolkit. ------SHOW NOTES------ Subscribe to the 'Tech for Finance' Podcast - https://pod.link/1628188164 Subscribe to the 'Finance Master' Podcast - https://audioboom.com/channels/5086131-financemaster ------CHAPTERS------ (00:00) AI Adoption in Finance (08:01) AI for Data Visualization and Analysis (19:57) Future of AI in Finance (25:01) Following Adam Shelton on Online Bin Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Have you ever aimed for perfection in your financial plans, only to realize that 'good enough' might be the smarter target? Our latest episode peels back the layers of financial planning, showing that precision isn't always the ultimate goal. Dive into the conversation as we explore the limitations of perfectionism in technical work and how tools like Excel serve as a sandbox for initial financial analysis. There comes a time, however, when businesses need to grow beyond spreadsheets, and that's where Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) systems take the stage. Discover how they enhance scalability and reduce errors, proving indispensable for financial planning and analysis. Strategy and feedback form the heartbeat of effective project management, and we get strategic about how to approach it. Setting clear objectives and being open to iterative feedback are crucial, and sometimes, the 80-90% solution is the key to moving forward. We discuss the role of AI, especially large language models like GPT, in reshaping financial workflows. Learn how these advancements are not only changing the way we work but also the way we think about our tools and processes. The episode doesn't stop there—it delves into the personal side of things, sharing how hands-on practice often trumps traditional education in the financial realm. We round off this rich discussion with insights from Carl of SidemanFinancial.com, whose expertise in advisory services and mentorship truly enlightens. Karl doesn't just offer advice; he lives it, actively engaging on LinkedIn and offering resources that can turbocharge your financial savvy. His approachable style and depth of knowledge make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their financial understanding or seeking guidance on how to navigate the complex financial landscape. Join us and equip yourself with the know-how to make informed decisions in an ever-evolving financial world. ------SHOW NOTES------ Find Carl on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlseidman/ Check out Seidman Financial - https://seidmanfinancial.com/ ------CHAPTERS------ (00:00) Choosing the Right Planning Tool (11:29) The Importance of Process and Feedback (25:30) Learning, Efficiency, and Power Query (30:05) Data Formatting and Analysis Tools (37:29) Finding More Information About Sideman Financial https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Have you ever wondered how the fast-paced world of finance technology shapes our understanding of numbers and narratives? Finance tech maven Adam Shilton joins us for an engaging exploration into the transformative role of AI in finance and accounting. With a history that leaps from music to mastering the tech world, Adam weaves a tale of innovation, emphasizing the power of data storytelling to turn complex analytics into compelling business insights. Throughout our conversation, we navigate the forest of new AI advancements, learning how to identify the true trailblazers among them—those tools that not only intrigue but also meet rigorous industry standards like SOC2. Our journey with Adam doesn't stop at tool evaluation; it's a deep dive into the heart of technology adoption in finance. As we peek behind the curtain of software demos, Adam dispels the myth of finance as a tech-laggard, revealing a sector that's embracing change as swiftly as any other, driven by a pandemic-prompted leap towards automation. We also examine the critical role of CFOs in championing these tech adoptions, and the importance of showcasing not just new technology, but its tangible value to the business. The finale of our episode with Adam is a glimpse into the not-so-distant future, where AI co-pilot tools are integrated into familiar platforms like Word and Excel. Imagine the revolutionary impact of AI assisting with everything from formulas to formatting—potentially ushering in a new era of efficiency where the once-daunting becomes approachable. We discuss the potential spike in user adoption rates and stress that the reliability of these tools is paramount for enhancing trust and user experience. Join us as we unravel the many facets of AI's evolving role in finance, led by a guide who's as fluent in tech talk as he is in the language of ledgers. ------SHOW NOTES------ Subscribe to the 'Tech for Finance' Podcast - https://pod.link/1628188164 Subscribe to the 'Finance Master' Podcast - https://audioboom.com/channels/5086131-financemaster ------CHAPTERS------ (00:00) AI in Finance and Accounting (08:20) Navigating New Technologies in Finance (13:42) Finance Software Demos and Technology Adoption (21:50) Impact of Co-Pilot on Data Adoption Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Could AI herald the dawn of a new age in the finance world, or are we blindly empowering a future corporate juggernaut? Together with my colleague Daniel Lawrence, we pull back the curtain on the transformative potential of Microsoft Copilot in the realm of finance and technology. As the lines between human ingenuity and artificial intelligence blur, we share our firsthand experiences with this AI-driven assistant and dissect how it's shaping our daily tasks. We're not just bystanders to innovation; we're at the helm, steering the conversation on the delicate balance between embracing AI's ease of use and preserving the indispensable human touch. Join us as we dissect the "learn, assist, do" model, painting a picture of AI as a collaborator in the learning process and a partner in productivity. We don't shy away from the tough questions, probing the ethical minefields of AI in business, from recruitment to cybersecurity. With an eye towards the future, we discuss the importance of corporate strategies that align with AI integration, and reflect on the implications of big tech's dominance on competition and consumer choice. Consider this episode a compass, guiding finance professionals through uncharted AI territory, ensuring they come out as navigators, not passengers. As we wrap up our expedition into AI's role in business, we leave no stone unturned, examining the true cost and ROI of AI adoption. We offer practical advice for IT organizations and finance departments, emphasizing the necessity for transparency, rigorous testing, and the understanding that learning to code is more nuanced than it seems. From the future of coding to the governance of AI solutions, this episode is a deep dive into the complexities and opportunities that lie ahead for the finance industry. So, tune in and equip yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions in a world increasingly driven by artificial intelligence. ------SHOW NOTES------ Subscribe to the 'Tech for Finance' podcast - https://pod.link/1628188164 Subscribe to the 'Beanies in a Pod' Podcast - https://beaniesinapod.buzzsprout.com/ ------CHAPTERS------ (00:00) Microsoft Copilot (14:32) Using AI for Learning and Assistance (21:47) Big Corporations and AI Governance Impact (26:29) Challenges of AI in Business (39:10) Learning to Code (50:35) Implementing AI and Cost Analysis Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Join us on Tech for Finance as we engage with the esteemed Carl Seidman, a financial heavyweight, in a riveting conversation about the convergence of technology and mastery within the finance realm. We navigate the often irresistible human penchant for shortcuts and ponder the ramifications for those striving for excellence in their respective careers. Carl, with his profound experience in FP&A, shares his wisdom on strategic planning, forecasting, and optimizing working capital, as well as his counterintuitive views on AI and technology. Beyond finance, Carl regales us with tales of his culinary escapades and an openness to exploring unconventional local cuisine while globetrotting. **Sponsor** - Join the AI Finance Club - www.techforfinance.com/ai - Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off Listen in as we unravel the complexities and limitations of artificial intelligence in the finance sector. I reflect on my own journey from a know-it-all professional to one humbled by the enormity of what I don't know, stressing the significance of pushing one another towards continuous growth and staying abreast of the latest industry knowledge. We dissect the difference between AI tools that are simply user-friendly and those that truly harness data to propel businesses forward. We also delve into the past overestimations surrounding big data, and discuss the exciting prospects of generative AI, all while acknowledging the enduring value of established financial technologies. In this enlightening session, we extend an invite to the AI Finance Club, underscoring the importance of integrating AI into financial work with prudence. Through personal stories, I illustrate the pitfalls of relying too heavily on AI without proper discernment, emphasizing the necessity for finance professionals to trust their instincts on when AI hits the mark—and when it doesn't. We also contemplate the influence of AI on junior team members and their ability to vet AI conclusions. Wrapping up the discussion, we confront the reliability of AI tools in research, comparing their capacity to provide credible data, and confront the challenge of discerning trustworthy information in an era where skepticism and verification are paramount. ------SHOW NOTES------ Find Carl on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlseidman/ Check out Seidman Financial - https://seidmanfinancial.com/ ------CHAPTERS------- (00:00) The Trillion Dollar Question (04:58) Limits of AI in Finance Exploration (15:37) Integrating AI in Finance (30:39) Evaluating Research Tools and Credible Sources Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Listen in as we tackle the multifaceted challenges of AI, starting with its inherent biases that can skew results toward extremes. From an experiment that oscillates between beauty and grotesque in image generation to the frustrations of transforming a PDF into a coherent strategy document, we share firsthand the limitations of AI and the importance of specialized models for specific tasks. Our discussion also wades into the murky waters of ethical considerations in AI, especially in finance, where data privacy and the responsible use of sensitive information are paramount. **Sponsor** - Join the AI Finance Club - www.techforfinance.com/ai - Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off Join us and our guest, Adam Shilton, as we navigate the delicate balance between embracing AI tools and maintaining human oversight. We recount Christian Martinez's advice from Kraft Heinz on using platforms like Google Colab for data protection and highlight the barriers small businesses face in accessing private AI platforms. Our conversation underlines the critical role of human validation to ensure brand compliance and explores the biases ingrained in AI, emphasizing the need for vigilance when utilizing AI-generated content. Wrapping up, we explore the journey of building a following on LinkedIn, moving from a focus on vanity metrics to the creation of impactful content that inspires action. We get excited about the future of AI as we discuss tools like PodiumPage and the possibilities of AI co-pilots in professional settings. Adam shares his insights on leveraging technology and the upcoming AI Finance Club, offering avenues for our listeners to connect and learn more about his work in the finance technology sector. So tune in for an enlightening episode that examines the intersection of AI, ethics, and the power of personal branding. ------SHOW NOTES------- Check out Business Breaks - https://businessbreaks.club/ ------CHAPTERS------- (00:00) Challenges and Considerations in Implementing AI (06:22) Challenges and Biases in AI Usage (21:48) Building a Following and Measuring Impact (31:45) Future AI Tools and Co-Pilots (35:38) Leverage and Future Projects With Adam (42:01) Website and Newsletter Subscription Instructions Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Listen in as we explore the transformative power of AI and automation in the finance sector, where technology is changing the game. We're talking about a landscape where AI-driven tools enable professionals to grasp market trends and competitor strategies with unprecedented speed and precision. Our conversation touches on how these advancements, from OCR to continuous close accounting, are not just reshaping the financial processes but also addressing the challenge of human bottlenecks. Whether you're a finance guru or just keen on how tech is revolutionizing industries, this insight is a gold mine. **Sponsor** - Join the AI Finance Club - www.techforfinance.com/ai - Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off During our chat, the spotlight shines on the far-reaching benefits of AI across various sectors. Imagine starting with simple AI-powered writing prompts and evolving to the point where specialized tools become your ally in data analysis and time management. I even introduce you to the AI Finance Club, a hub for finance professionals to enhance their craft with AI. It's all about leveraging technology to stay ahead, and we discuss how even those in personal finance management can benefit from integrating AI into their strategies. Wrapping up, we delve into the trust issues emerging alongside AI's advancements. From distinguishing authentic interactions from AI-generated content to pondering the implications of a simulated reality, we tackle it all. But it's not all serious business—I share some personal tech favorites that make everyday life a bit more interesting, like the Can of Soup app. Join us for a riveting discussion that merges the professional with the personal, all through the lens of AI's evolving narrative. ------SHOW NOTES------- Find Sasha on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sashaorloff/ Check out Puzzle - https://puzzle.io/ ------CHAPTERS------ (00:00) AI and Automation in Finance (12:08) Benefits of AI in Various Industries (19:03) AI Models (27:30) The Future of AI and Trust (33:09) Puzzle.io Introduction and Invitation for Feedback Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Join us on Business Breaks as we welcome the incredibly versatile Adam Shilton, who seamlessly transitions his symphony of skills from music to mastering the intricate world of finance technology. Adam shares the melody of his life, illustrating how the harmonies of collaboration and the technicalities of music production have tuned his approach to AI in finance. With a nod to his past in bands and a focus on the future, he reflects on how continuous learning and adaptation play a key role in both music and the evolving landscape of finance. **Sponsor** - Join the AI Finance Club - www.techforfinance.com/ai - Enter ADAM100 at checkout for 10% off Listen in as Adam discusses the crescendo of AI innovation in finance, distinguishing the nuances between the pre and post-chat GPT era. He orchestrates a comparison of AI's capabilities, from predictive analytics to generative AI's more sophisticated outputs. Adam also sheds light on how finance teams are adapting to new technology, offering practical applications of AI that streamline workflows and enhance productivity. As we delve into the democratization of AI tools like ChatGPT, Adam invites listeners to join the AI Finance Club, where the discussion on AI's utility in finance continues to unfold. Wrapping up our conversation, Adam emphasizes the importance of crafting clear prompts for AI models, drawing from his experience with models like Claude 2.1. He shares strategies for optimizing prompts by breaking them down into manageable parts, ensuring AI-generated outputs are as accurate and useful as possible. Moreover, Adam provides insights on how finance professionals can harness AI and automation to advance their careers, highlighting the necessity of developing soft skills such as emotional intelligence alongside technical expertise. Tune in to discover how Adam's insights can help you fine-tune your career and the way you engage with AI in the finance sector. ------SHOW NOTES------ Check out Business Breaks - https://businessbreaks.club/ ------CHAPTERS------ (00:00) Music and AI in Finance (04:13) Transition From Music to Finance Technology (10:57) AI Innovation in Finance (25:19) AI and Career Advancement in Finance (35:19) Clarity and Chunking in Prompt Design (38:44) Optimizing Prompt Engineering for Better Output Subscribe to the Newsletter at - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com