The Adam Shilton Podcast

Stephanie Mertz, Co-founder and CTO of Eisen, discusses leveraging AI tools, moving beyond Excel in finance, automation platforms, prompt engineering in AI, and the future of generative AI. She emphasizes the importance of foundational knowledge and building resilient systems to level up technical skills.

In this replay of the GrowCFO show, host Kevin Appleby talks with returning guest Adam Shilton about how finance teams can use AI tools like ChatGPT. They discuss the different categories of AI tools - personal productivity enhancers, data/analytics, and enhancements to existing software. Adam outlines examples in each category, like using AI assistants for meeting notes and summaries. They also talk about the importance of simplifying and standardising processes before automation. Looking ahead, they predict increased autonomy of AI tools in 2024. Rather than just assisting, AI may be able to work towards defined outcomes with less ongoing prompting. Adam and Kevin agree that learning to frame effective prompts is an essential skill for getting the most out of AI. ------SHOW NOTES------- Check out the GrowCFO Show - https://www.growcfo.net/growcfo-show/ ------CHAPTERS------ Here are the chapters for the podcast transcript: (00:00:00) - Introduction (00:01:06) - Catching up since previous podcast (00:03:08) - Using AI tools like Otter and Fathom (00:05:09) - Explaining ChatGPT and how finance can use it (00:10:17) - Personal productivity uses for AI assistants (00:12:16) - Using AI for data analytics (00:13:22) - AI enhancements to existing software (00:14:21) - Reviewing key AI categories and applications (00:16:17) - Using AI to automate podcast production (00:18:22) - Importance of process optimization before automation (00:19:29) - Scheduling focus time with AI calendar tools (00:22:10) - AI meeting notes enable active listening (00:24:32) - Predicting increased AI autonomy in 2024 (00:26:00) - Challenges of prompting AI tools effectively (00:27:52) - AI may be able to work towards defined outcomes (00:29:45) - Limitations of existing autonomous AI tools (00:31:08) - Using specific AI bots for different tasks (00:32:28) - AI still needs clear instructions and outcomes (00:35:49) - Microsoft Copilot and other upcoming AI tools (00:38:00) - Potential costs and benefits of Microsoft Copilot (00:41:25) - Importance of process improvement before AI automation (00:43:03) - Real-world examples of process optimization (00:45:43) - AI image generation tools (00:47:22) - Framing effective questions and prompts (00:48:13) - Conclusion Check out the newsletter - https://newsletter.techforfinance.com/

More goodies at www.techforfinance.com | Listen in as we navigate the intricate dance between AI and human intuition in the realm of financial forecasting and analysis. Together with my insightful guest Martin, we dissect the irreplaceable value of human touch in financial planning. We highlight how a strategic blend of AI tools and expert knowledge can amplify our financial foresight, transforming analysts into superheroes of data. Martin shares pearls of wisdom on the importance of simple, direct questions in crafting more effective financial plans, underscoring the necessity of human connection in an increasingly automated world. This conversation also delves into the evolution of financial planning and analysis platforms, as Martin sheds light on the nuanced limitations and burgeoning capabilities of AI in this field. From discussing the potential of Python's Prophet library to contemplating the future of interaction design and anomaly detection in FP&A tools, we explore the balance between technological allure and the essential need for human judgment. Moreover, we get playful with AI's storytelling prowess, revealing how it can generate custom bedtime tales for kids, and we probe the nascent co-pilot feature in Office apps, setting realistic expectations for AI assistance in data and modeling tasks. Wrapping up our chat, Martin takes us on a detour through the realms of personal health, fitness, and the arts. We share transformative experiences with fitness apps and the quantified self-movement, reflecting on the impact of tracking and consistency in our wellbeing journeys. And for those enchanted by the intersection of creativity and technology, Martin extends an invitation to engage with his art and connect through various platforms, ensuring his insights and inspirations are but a click away. So join us for a rich blend of finance, technology, and personal growth that promises to enlighten and entertain. ------SHOW NOTES------ - Connect with Martin on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinzych/ - Check out Jirav - https://www.jirav.com/ ------CHAPTERS------ (00:00) The Role of AI in Forecasting (10:47) AI in Financial Planning and Analysis (17:18) Exploring Financial Modeling and AI Storytelling (24:13) Tech Apps and Fitness Transformations (29:17) Finding Martin's Art and Contact Information https://newsletter.techforfinance.com

Former Microsoft finance director Oli Deacon and AI finance expert Adam Shilton dive into the revolutionary impact of Microsoft Co-pilot in finance. They discuss its integration with Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, showcasing its ability to streamline tasks and enhance productivity. The podcast offers practical tips for acquiring and maximizing Co-pilot's benefits, promising to guide finance professionals through engaging with this AI-driven assistant effectively.

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