FP&A Tomorrow

In this episode, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Paul Lynch, the energetic and straightforward CEO of Centage. They dive into what makes great FP&A in today’s world and why so many companies are still stuck with outdated tools and bad habits. From growing startups to leading mature SaaS businesses, Paul shares lessons learned, mistakes made, and why data, not gut instinct, is what really drives success. You’ll hear why Excel refuses to die, how sales and finance can (and should) work better together, and why chasing growth without understanding your numbers is a recipe for disaster. Paul Lynch has spent his career leading B2B software companies and helping them scale with better decision-making tools. He’s been CEO at Assembla and Import.io, and now heads up Centage, a modern FP&A platform. Originally from Dublin and now living in Texas, Paul brings a mix of humor, experience, and blunt truths about finance, growth, and leadership. He’s also a former whiskey salesman in South Africa, a passionate cook, and a lifelong Liverpool fan. Expect to Learn:Why reporting is not just planning should be the core of FP&A.How poor unit economics can quietly destroy your business.Why hiring data people early matters more than sales or recruiters.The lasting dominance of Excel and what that says about innovation.How Paul’s early sales career in South Africa shaped his leadership style.Here are a few quotes from the episode:“We need to stop worshipping Excel and start building tools for the next 40 years.” - Paul LynchMany companies chase growth without even knowing if they’re making or losing money.” - Paul Lynch“The moment you think you know more than your customer, your business starts to fail.” - Paul LynchPaul brings energy, candor, and real-world perspective to a topic that’s often bogged down in spreadsheets and jargon. This episode is a must-listen for finance professionals who want to rethink how they use data, sharpen their business instincts, or learn from someone who’s built and led through both booms and busts. If you’ve ever questioned how to grow responsibly, build a smarter team, or move beyond Excel, Paul’s insights will challenge your thinking and leave you with practical takeaways to act on.Corporate Finance Institute: Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-FP&A guy/?utm_source=FP&A guy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_adsFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Paul Lynch:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulglynch/Website - https://www.centage.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.theFP&A ndaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/theFP&A ndaguyEarn Your CPE Credit For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FP&A  Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In Today’s Episode[03:37] - Real-Life FP&A Example[06:28] - Starting in Sales[09:39] - Customer-Led Roadmaps[11:53] - FP&A in Sales[14:18] - Key SaaS Metrics[16:09] - Ignoring Unit Economics[18:26] - VC and Growth[24:13] - Innovation in FP&A[32:51] - Rise of Data[35:42] - Key FP&A Skills[38:27] - Get To Know You

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Ramya Krishnaganth, founder of Yuvi Consulting and a leader in finance transformation. Ramya brings a thoughtful and practical perspective on how FP&A goes far beyond numbers; it's about understanding the business, working across departments, and making real-world decisions easier. She shares stories from her work helping companies solve messy data problems, improve cost control, and build stronger financial processes.Ramya Krishnaganth is an experienced advisor with a background in cost accounting, financial planning, and enterprise transformations. She holds an executive MBA from Wharton and has helped companies across industries build smarter, more responsive finance functions. Her passion is making data more meaningful and empowering teams to work better together not just through systems, but through clarity, communication, and care.Expect to Learn:Why great FP&A is about being the “nervous system” of a company, not just reporting numbers.How a CFO used one simple metric to drive company-wide cost discipline.Why fixing data issues means looking beyond tech and starting with people and processes.How to build credibility in finance by solving one problem at a time.What it means to approach data with empathy and why it changes how you solve problems.Here are a few quotes from the episode:“You don’t always need a new system. Sometimes clarity and better definitions solve the problem.” - Ramya Krishnaganth“Credibility comes when you give people answers they can use, when they need them.” - Ramya Krishnaganth“Transformations aren’t about technology alone. They’re about making real decisions easier.” - Ramya KrishnaganthRamya brings warmth and wisdom to a topic that often feels technical and dry. This episode is a great listen for finance professionals looking to strengthen their influence, better understand how to approach messy data, or simply hear how someone else has helped real companies tackle hard problems. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by data or unsure where to start, Ramya’s insights will give you both a fresh perspective and practical next steps.Corporate Finance Institute: Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_adsFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Ramya:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramyadurgak/Website - https://uvidconsulting.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyEarn 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[01:51] - Welcome to The Episode[05:16] - A CFO’s Smart Cost-Control Strategy[08:55] - Why Financial Transformation Matters[13:05] - Why Companies Struggle With Data[14:32] - Root Causes: People, Process, or Tech[19:25] - Smart Approaches to Fixing Data[24:29] - Empathy and Data: What It Really Means[27:41] - Finding and Solving the Right Problems[32:48] - Practical Advice for Analysts[38:42] - Must-Have Skills for FP&A[43:04] - Ramya’s Personal Interests[49:01] - Final Thoughts and How to Connect

Nate Saperia, founder of a consulting firm and finance expert with over 20 years in corporate finance, shares insights on elevating FP&A beyond traditional reporting. He discusses making KPIs actionable for better decision-making, the distinction between strategic finance and FP&A, and adapting to the unique dynamics of private equity finance teams. Nate emphasizes the importance of technical skills like Power Query and fostering business partnerships, while also reflecting on the unexpected challenges of launching a consulting business.

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst chats with Wassia Kamon, the Chief Financial Officer at Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE), about her journey from financial planning and analysis (FP&A) to leading as a CFO. Wassia opens up about the challenges, surprises, and growth she's experienced, particularly in learning to navigate the boardroom and building strategic influence within her organization. Along the way, she shares valuable insights into leadership, trust-building, and why it's essential for finance professionals to expand beyond the numbers.Wassia Kamon is a finance powerhouse with over 15 years of experience across various industries, including manufacturing, technology, pharmaceuticals, and nonprofits. As CFO at ACE, a nonprofit lending institution, she plays a key role in providing capital to entrepreneurs. Wassia has also been recognized as a 40 Under 40 honoree by CPA Practice Advisor and is the host of the podcast The Diary of a CFO. She's passionate about helping high-potential finance leaders step into executive roles and shares her expertise through coaching, speaking engagements, and teaching at the Wharton Online Certificate Program.Expect to Learn:How Wassia transitioned from FP&A to CFO and the unexpected challenges she faced along the way.The power of trust and relationships in becoming a key business partner, not just a number cruncher.Why being invited into decision-making conversations early is a game changer for finance teams.What it was really like dealing with the board of directors for the first time as a CFO.How to expand your influence and take a broader view of business to become a true strategic partner.Here are a few quotes from the episode:“In FP&A, it's important to build those relationships early and not just be the person catching up after decisions are made.” - Wassia Kamon“You can’t be great at FP&A unless you are in the room where decisions are made. It’s about having the trust to influence, not just report.” - Wassia Kamon“Good FP&A is when you're already top of mind to decision makers, and they come to you for input, not the other way around.” - Wassia KamonWassia delivers a powerful perspective on the role of financial leaders and the critical need for stronger relationships, trust-building, and strategic influence in today’s business environment. This episode is essential listening for finance professionals, aspiring CFOs, and business leaders looking to enhance their impact, improve decision-making, and build stronger, more collaborative teams.Corporate Finance Institute: Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_adsFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Wassia:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/Website - https://www.wassiakamon.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy2025 FP&A Tools Showcase:Discover the best in FP&A without the sales pressure. The 2025 FP&A Tools Showcase is a free event where top platforms demo their solutions, share their approach to planning, and answer your questions with no pitches, just insights. Join us on May 22nd and see how today’s leading tools stack up.Register now at https://bit.ly/42YPPkFEarn 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[01:42] - Welcome and Introduction[03:29] - Wassia’s Journey from FP&A to CFO[05:02] - What Makes Great FP&A?[07:13] - Dealing with the Board for the First Time[09:45] - Building Trust and Strategic Influence in Finance[13:20] - Leading in Multiple Industries[17:05] - Expanding Your Network and Influence[21:14] - Managing Uncertainty as a CFO[25:32] - Leadership Lessons from Wassia’s Career[29:00] - Building Effective Relationships in Business[33:47] - Key Takeaways

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Parker Gilbert, CEO and Co-founder of Numeric, to explore the transformation of accounting through smarter tools and processes. From his background in investment banking to leading finance at a startup, Parker shares the inspiration behind Numeric, a platform built specifically to simplify the financial close. Why the financial close is still so manual, how poor tooling can hinder team performance, and what it takes to modernize accounting. Parker discusses the pain points accounting teams face with existing software and explains why Numeric was designed to meet the real-world needs of growing finance teams.Parker Gilbert is the CEO and Co-founder of Numeric, a financial close platform designed to make accounting teams faster, more accurate, and more collaborative. With a background in investment banking and hands-on experience as Head of Finance at Hearth, Parker understands both the strategic and operational challenges finance teams face. Frustrated by the limitations of traditional accounting tools, Parker set out to build Numeric, software purpose-built to simplify and streamline the month-end close.Expect to Learn:Why Parker and his team started Numeric to solve overlooked pain points in accounting.How traditional tools like Excel and legacy ERP systems are failing modern accounting teams.What it means to build software specifically for the financial close process.Why visibility and collaboration are essential in reducing close errors.How Numeric empowers teams to understand what’s been done, what’s left, and where issues arise.Here are a few quotes from the episode:“The close is this sort of well-understood pain point in accounting, but there's no purpose-built software that helps solve it.” - Parker Gilbert“We believe the best way to build software is to partner really closely with customers.” - Parker Gilbert“Accounting is really about trust, it’s about giving your team the confidence that everything is covered.” - Parker GilbertParker delivers a powerful perspective on the role of accounting teams and the urgent need for smarter, more intuitive tools. This episode is essential listening for finance professionals, controllers, and startup leaders looking to improve their close process, enhance accuracy, and make better business decisions. If you’re tired of copy-pasting across spreadsheets and guessing what’s done, this conversation will inspire you to rethink your accounting stack.Corporate Finance Institute: Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_adsFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Parker:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/parker-gilbert-99483298/Website - https://www.numeric.io/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy2025 FP&A Tools Showcase:Discover the best in FP&A without the sales pressure. The 2025 FP&A Tools Showcase is a free event where top platforms demo their solutions, share their approach to planning, and answer your questions with no pitches, just insights. Join us on May 22nd and see how today’s leading tools stack up.Register now at https://bit.ly/42YPPkFEarn 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[01:42] - Introduction to the Episode[03:29] - What Makes Great FP&A?[05:02] - The Importance of Pricing Strategy[08:45] - Global Trends in Pricing[10:26] - Coaching Rugby at Duke[12:17] - Adapting to Economic Shifts[15:20] - Challenges in Today’s Market[21:14] - Winning Big-Name Clients[24:32] - Unexpected Surprises in Finance[27:13] - Transparency in Pricing[32:31] - Why Finance & Ops Often Go Together[36:17] - Why FP&A Must Understand the Business[42:44] - Parker’s Time Travel Wish

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Anders Liu-Lindberg, a leading expert in business partnering and finance communication. Anders discusses how finance teams can elevate their role from traditional number crunchers to strategic partners within the business. He shares his insights on the importance of effective communication in finance, the value of business partnering, and how FP&A professionals can make a greater impact within their organizations.Anders is the co-founder and partner at the Business Partnering Institute, where he helps finance teams transform into strategic business partners. With over 10 years of experience as a business partner at Maersk, Anders has firsthand knowledge of what it takes to create value through finance. He is the co-author of Create Value as a Finance Business Partner and is about to release his new book, Communicating Financials to Executives. He is also a top LinkedIn voice with over 400,000 followers, where he shares valuable content for finance professionals looking to grow their careers and impact.Expect to Learn:How FP&A can go from just reporting numbers to playing a strategic role in the company.The best way to present financial insights so executives can act on them.Why synthesizing data is important for decision-making, and how it's different from just summarizing it.Practical steps to improve communication between finance teams and business leaders.How to build strong relationships with stakeholders, even when they’re hesitant to work with finance.Here are a few quotes from the episode:"Business partnering isn’t about pushing your thoughts on the business; it’s about bringing them along." - Anders Liu-Lindberg"The true value of FP&A comes from helping the business translate strategy into actionable plans." - Anders Liu-Lindberg"FP&A should move beyond budgeting and forecasting to become a strategic business partner." - Anders Liu-LindbergAnders Liu-Lindberg provided valuable insights on how finance professionals can become strategic business partners. His advice on communication, synthesizing data, and building relationships offers practical steps for success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to make a bigger impact in FP&A. The wisdom shared will help professionals thrive in an evolving business environment.Corporate Finance Institute: Master real-world finance skills with CFI’s FMVA program to learn financial modeling, valuations, and strategic insights top finance teams use. Get 30% off any plan and take the next step in your career. Explore now at https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/pricing-fpaguy/?utm_source=fpaguy&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=podcast_adsFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Andres:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/Anders liulindberg/?originalSubdomain=dkWebsite - https://www.bpidk.org/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyStreamline Financial Planning with Kepion:Get up and running fast with planning that grows as you do. Kepion is a Microsoft-based solution that helps you implement quickly, integrate data seamlessly, and scale with self-service. From FP&A to CapEx, and workforce planning, Kepion empowers you to adapt faster, plan with confidence, and drive real ROI. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3YI5cfp 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[02:10] - Meet Anders Liu-Lindberg[04:47] - What Makes Great FP&A?[06:26] - Example of Great FP&A in Action[08:10] - The Business Partnering Institute[11:24] - Anders’ New Book: Communicating Financials to Executives[13:27] - Framework for Communicating Financial Insights[15:59] - Importance of Aligning on Numbers[21:39] - Synthesizing vs. Summarizing Data[29:11] - Using Qualitative Data in Decision-Making[33:01] - Building Strong Business Relationships[39:20] - Key Skills for Success in FP&A[45:18] - Final Advice on Business Partnering

In this special episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Cassie McCombs, Marcus Gadson, and Mario Vasquez. Together, they share their experiences with the Certified Corporate FP&A Professional (FPAC) credential from the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP). The guests discuss how earning the FPAC has shaped their careers, the impact it’s had on their professional growth, and why this certification is becoming an essential asset for finance professionals.Cassie is the Vice President of FP&A at Ultradent Products, a dental manufacturing company, where she played a key role in building the company’s first FP&A team from the ground up. Marcus serves as the Senior Finance Director at Wellpath, a healthcare company, where he is passionate about making finance accessible across all departments. Mario is the Senior Director of Finance at E.W. Scripps Company, brings over 25 years of experience in FP&A. He was part of the first cohort to earn the credential and shares valuable insights on how the certification helped him stand out and advance in his career.Expect to Learn:The impact of continuing education on staying up-to-date in the field of FP&A.The value of the credential and how it can impact your career in FP&A.Key insights on how to prepare for the exam and tips for success.The importance of continuous learning and staying updated in the financial industry.The role of FP&A in driving business strategy and decision-making.Here are a few quotes from the episode:"Data is not a four-letter word. It's essential to understanding and improving the business." - Cassie McCombs"If you’re not learning, you're going backward. The FPAC credential helps you stay on top of industry trends." - Mario Vasquez"Collaborating with non-finance teams is essential for making an impact as a finance leader." - Marcus GadsonCassie, Marcus, and Mario shared valuable perspectives on the impact of the FPAC credential on their careers and the financial planning and analysis profession. Their advice on the importance of continuous learning, collaboration across departments, and staying adaptable in an ever-evolving industry provides actionable steps for finance professionals seeking to advance their skills and make a greater impact within their organizations. The experiences and wisdom shared in this episode are invaluable for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of FP&A and drive long-term business success.FP&A Community Hub: Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Mario:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-vasquez-finance/Follow Marcus:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusgadson/Follow Cassie:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassie-mccombs-fpac-10a373a4/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFP&A Certificates: FP&A Certificates is where finance professionals go to level up, stand out, and grow their careers. Built by FP&A experts for the FP&A community, this platform features the top certificate programs from Wharton Online,, CFI, FMI, and more. It’s the smartest way to compare your options, find the right fit, and get exclusive discounts. Show your commitment to FP&A and take your skills to the next level. Explore now at https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certificationsExplore the resources and discounts available:FPAC Program from Association of Financial Professionals (AFP)Use Code Exam: TheFPAGuy-FPAC – Exam for $150 DiscountUse Code Exam Prep Platform: TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP – Exam Prep Platform for $100 DiscountCertificate of FP&A from Wharton Online and Wall Street Prephttps://secure.enroll.wharton.wallstreetprep.com/referral/Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 – $300 Program DiscountCertified Global FP&A Professional (CGFPA) | FP&A ProfessionalsUse Code: FPAGUY - $200 Program DiscountFinancial Modeler's Corner Podcast - FMICode: Podcast for a 15% Program DiscountCorporate Finance Institute (CFI) ProgramsFinancial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)Code: FPAGUY30 for a 30% discount on the FMVA and FP&A Specialization programsFP&A specializationCertification in Financial Planning & Analysis Modeling (CFPAM™) | Wall Street PrepEarn 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 Episode [02:35] - Meet the Guests: Cassie, Marcus, and Mario [04:30] - What Makes Great FP&A? [07:21] - The Decision to Get Certified [10:13] - Other Credentials Considered [13:19] - Career Impact of the FPAC [19:19] - Study Approaches & Exam Tips [27:06] - Continuing Education with AFP [29:23] -'s Long-Term Career Impact [41:41] - Top FP&A Skills [46:36] - Fun Questions with the Guests

Karan Sood, a global pricing expert with over a decade in revenue management, dives deep into the effects of tariffs on businesses. He discusses how different industries must avoid one-size-fits-all strategies and highlights the importance of tailored pricing approaches. Karan emphasizes cross-department collaboration to effectively manage the financial implications of tariffs. He also shares insights on creating flexible pricing models to adapt quickly to market changes and the necessity of transparency with customers during these transitions.

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) speaks with Alfredo Kinanga and Jihane Mochamad, two graduates of the Certified Global FP&A Certificate Program (CGFPAC). They share why they chose the program, the key takeaways that shaped their professional growth, and how the course helped them sharpen both technical and soft skills. From business partnering and financial modeling to data storytelling and AI, their experiences offer practical insight for anyone considering an FP&A certification or looking to elevate their career in finance.Alfredo Kinanga is a finance and trade marketing professional with 14+ years of experience in accounting, planning, and commercial finance.He’s passionate about driving business growth and using FP&A to connect strategy and execution. Jihane Mochamad is a CPA from Canada with over 10 years in payroll, financial reporting, and budgeting.She works in the senior living industry, focusing on automation and preparing for the future of finance.Expect to Learn:What Alfredo and Jihane gained from the strategy and AI modulesHow financial modeling and data storytelling helped transform their workThe power of co-creation and business partnering in FP&AWhy communication, empathy, and stakeholder relationships are must-have skillsHow the program helped them reconnect with foundational finance knowledgeHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:“Strategy gave me a big picture view, even from a payroll position.” - Jihane Mochamad“FP&A is about empathy, collaboration, and understanding the business.” - Paul Barnhurst“Data storytelling taught me how to present insights with clarity.” - Alfredo KinangaAlfredo and Jihane brought energy, honesty, and real-life examples to this episode, sharing how the Certified Global FP&A Program helped reshape their careers and perspectives. From strengthening their technical and soft skills to embracing AI and strategy, their stories show what’s possible when you invest in your own development and approach FP&A with curiosity and collaboration.FP&A Community Hub: Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Alfredo:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alfredo-kinanga/?trk=org-employees&originalSubdomain=aoFollow Jihane:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jihane-mochamad/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFP&A Certificates: FP&A Certificates is where finance professionals go to level up, stand out, and grow their careers. Built by FP&A experts for the FP&A community, this platform features the top certificate programs from Wharton Online, FPAC, CFI, FMI, and more. It’s the smartest way to compare your options, find the right fit, and get exclusive discounts. Show your commitment to FP&A and take your skills to the next level. Explore now at https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certificationsExplore the resources and discounts available:FPAC Program from Association of Financial Professionals (AFP)Use Code Exam: TheFPAGuy-FPAC – Exam for $150 DiscountUse Code Exam Prep Platform: TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP – Exam Prep Platform for $100 DiscountCertificate of FP&A from Wharton Online and Wall Street Prephttps://secure.enroll.wharton.wallstreetprep.com/referral/Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 – $300 Program DiscountCertified Global FP&A Professional (CGFPA) | FP&A ProfessionalsUse Code: FPAGUY - $200 Program DiscountFinancial Modeler's Corner Podcast - FMICode: Podcast for a 15% Program DiscountCorporate Finance Institute (CFI) ProgramsFinancial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)Code: FPAGUY30 for a 30% discount on the FMVA and FP&A Specialization programsFP&A specializationCertification in Financial Planning & Analysis Modeling (CFPAM™) | Wall Street PrepEarn 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[02:20] - Meet Alfredo and Jihane[04:08] - What Makes Great FP&A[06:10] - Discovering the CGFPAC Program[12:35] - Alfredo’s Biggest Takeaway[16:23] - Co-Creation in Finance[18:36] - Jihane’s Shift Toward FP&A[23:56] - Favorite Course Modules[30:32] - AI Section Highlights[33:33] - Advice for Future Students[38:40] - Must-Have Technical Skills[40:25] - Top Soft Skills for FP&A[42:58] - Career Reflections and Final Thoughts

In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) sits down with Dan Cotoia and Anh Tran, two accomplished finance professionals who recently completed the FP&A Certificate Program from Wharton Online in collaboration with Wall Street Prep. They share their reasons for enrolling, how the program supported their career growth, and what aspiring FP&A professionals can expect. From personal career pivots to practical tools and concepts, this conversation offers a clear and relatable look at the value of formal training in today’s finance landscape.Dan Cotoia is a Senior Finance Director in the pharmaceutical industry with 18+ years of FP&A experience across commercial finance, R&D, and cost accounting.Anh Tran is a finance professional with a background in investment banking and regulatory finance, recently returning to corporate finance after completing the Wharton FP&A Certificate Program.Expect to Learn:Why Dan and Anh chose the Wharton FP&A Certificate over other programsWhat makes the program stand out, from live interaction to practical contentKey takeaways they applied directly to their jobsHow much time you’ll actually spend on the courseworkHow the program supports career transitions and networkingThe role of AI and Power Query in modern FP&A trainingHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:“The AI module helped me see where FP&A is heading. It’s not just Excel anymore.” - Dan Cotoia“It’s not just about learning concepts, it’s about connecting with others who live FP&A every day.” - Anh TranDan Cotoia and Anh Tran shared honest, practical experiences about completing the Wharton FP&A Certificate Program.Their stories show how structured learning and the right tools can make a real difference in everyday finance work.FP&A Community Hub: Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Dan:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancotoia/Follow Anh:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anh-tran-fpna-ccar-ppnr/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFP&A Certificates: FP&A Certificates is where finance professionals go to level up, stand out, and grow their careers. Built by FP&A experts for the FP&A community, this platform features the top certificate programs from Wharton Online, FPAC, CFI, FMI, and more. It’s the smartest way to compare your options, find the right fit, and get exclusive discounts. Show your commitment to FP&A and take your skills to the next level. Explore now at https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certificationsExplore the resources and discounts available:FPAC Program from Association of Financial Professionals (AFP)Use Code Exam: TheFPAGuy-FPAC – Exam for $150 DiscountUse Code Exam Prep Platform: TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP – Exam Prep Platform for $100 DiscountCertificate of FP&A from Wharton Online and Wall Street Prephttps://secure.enroll.wharton.wallstreetprep.com/referral/Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 – $300 Program DiscountCertified Global FP&A Professional (CGFPA) | FP&A ProfessionalsUse Code: FPAGUY - $200 Program DiscountFinancial Modeler's Corner Podcast - FMICode: Podcast for a 15% Program DiscountCorporate Finance Institute (CFI) ProgramsFinancial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)Code: FPAGUY30 for a 30% discount on the FMVA and FP&A Specialization programsFP&A specializationCertification in Financial Planning & Analysis Modeling (CFPAM™) | Wall Street PrepEarn 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[02:05] - Dan and Anh’s Backgrounds[06:33] - Defining Great FP&A[10:31] - Why Anh Chose Wharton[15:55] - Team Reaction to Dan Upskilling[17:47] - Cohort and Community Experience[24:27] - Anh’s Takeaways and Connections[27:29] - Dan’s Practical Learnings[31:44] - How Anh Built Her FP&A Network[38:51] - Favorite Modules and Tools[50:16] - Key FP&A Skills Today