In this episode, Host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, explores the complexities of corporate spin-offs with guest Jens Gutberlet. They focus on Kenvue’s remarkable journey of separating from Johnson & Johnson with strategic reasoning and organizational transformation. This discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities that arise when creating a standalone company from a global giant.Jens Gutberlet is a seasoned finance leader with over 15 years of experience in multinational consumer goods companies like Henkel, Edgewell, Johnson & Johnson, and now Kenvue. Based in Toronto, Jens has spearheaded major transformation projects, including two large-scale company separations. His expertise in FP&A and organizational change shines through as he shares his insights from Kenvue’s historic spin-off.Expect to Learn:Why Johnson & Johnson decided to spin off Kenvue and the strategic benefits of the separation.The key challenges and milestones in creating a new standalone company.How FP&A professionals can contribute to major transformation projects.The importance of mindset and communication during organizational change.Opportunities for improvement in finance systems and processes during spin-offs.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"Understanding the 'why' behind a transformation is crucial for keeping people engaged and motivated." - Jens Gutberlet"Managing cultural and people aspects during transformation is often harder than tackling technology." - Jens Gutberlet"The key to success is breaking down massive projects into manageable, bite-sized steps." - Jens GutberletJens emphasizes the importance of communication, strategic thinking, and adaptability in navigating the complexities of organizational change. For FP&A professionals, spin-offs are a unique opportunity to shape the future of a company and build robust financial systems.World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Follow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Jens:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jens-gutberlet/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyEnroll for Wharton Online Certificate Program:Sign up for the 8 week online financial planning & analysis certificate program by Wharton Online and learn the art of forecasting, analysis, business partnering and financial storytelling: https://bit.ly/4debs46 Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 to save $300. Earn Your CPE Credit For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In Today’s Episode[01:28] - Introduction to the Episode[03:24] - Defining FP&A Excellence[05:41] - Lessons from Consulting[09:26] - Kenvue’s Creation[17:02] - Transformation Challenges[23:59] - Cultural Considerations[26:44] - Technology Transformation[33:39] - Advice for FP&A Professionals[37:49] - Mindset for Success[50:34] - Wrap Up and Closing Comments

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, Paul Barnhurst discusses the ever-evolving field of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) with Bryan Lapidus. They explore the shift from traditional roles to value-driven finance. The discussion focuses on the rising importance of generative AI, and examines the essential skills needed for success in the field. Bryan Lapidus is the Director of the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP) and a leading voice in the FP&A community. With decades of experience spanning senior roles, an MBA from NYU, and a history of helping finance professionals elevate their skills, Bryan brings a wealth of knowledge on FP&A trends, certifications, and technological advancements.Expect to Learn:The evolution of FP&A and how specialization is reshaping the field.The critical role of generative AI in finance and practical advice for adoption.How the FP&A certification can boost career growth and salary potential.Differences between value-creating and control-focused CFOs and why it matters.Key technical and soft skills to thrive as an FP&A professional.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"To excel in FP&A, you need the why, the what, and the how: why we allocate capital, what we deliver, and how we use technology and people." - Bryan Lapidus"When finance focuses solely on controls, it limits its ability to contribute to the company’s growth." - Bryan Lapidus"The rise of data analytics in FP&A means more roles require coding knowledge like Python and SQL." - Bryan LapidusIn this episode, Bryan Lapidus shares the transformative impact of technology, and the skills that define the role of FP&A. He emphasized the importance of value creation, specialization, and adopting tools like generative AI while staying grounded in foundational skills.Plan Smarter with Workday:Workday Adaptive Planning empowers organizations with AI-driven insights, advanced data visualization, and powerful reporting tools. Make smarter decisions faster and elevate your budgeting, forecasting, and modeling. Learn more at http://www.workday.com/fpaguyFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Bryan:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-lapidus-fpac/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Earn 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[01:43] - About Bryan Lapidus[03:04] - Defining FP&A[06:30] - Challenges in FP&A[10:30] - Bryan’s Career Journey[14:51] - AFP Overview[19:09] - AI’s transformative potential[29:55] - FPAC Certification Value[32:59] - Value-creating vs. Control-focused CFOs[39:46] - FP&A Standard Questions[50:36] - Advice for FP&A Professionals

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, aka “The FP&A Guy,” talks about financial planning and analysis (FP&A) with Carl Seidman. They discuss how technology, strategic thinking, and effective communication are reshaping FP&A roles, making them more agile and impactful than ever.Carl Seidman is an FP&A advisor, educator, and fractional CFO with over two decades of experience in financial strategy, business storytelling, and leadership development. Founder of Seidman Financial, Carl helps organizations build robust FP&A capabilities and fosters the development of professionals through learning programs and mastermind groups.Expect to Learn:How the FP&A profession is transitioning from backward-looking analysis to strategic business partnering.The growing importance of communication and influence in advancing FP&A careers.Insights into scenario planning and anticipating disruptions in uncertain times.The role of technology and tools like Excel and generative AI in enhancing FP&A processes.Tips for becoming a more effective presenter and influencer in professional settings.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"Critical thinking and communication are the two most essential skills for FP&A professionals." - Carl Seidman"FP&A professionals must move beyond technical skills to focus on strategy and influence." - Carl Seidman"Excel is still powerful, but integrating it with modern tools can unlock even greater efficiency." - Carl SeidmanCarl shared actionable insights and practical advice that can help FP&A teams navigate the complexities of today's business environment. As FP&A transitions from traditional analysis to becoming a vital strategic partner, professionals must cultivate critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to influence decisions. Plan Smarter with Workday:Workday Adaptive Planning empowers organizations with AI-driven insights, advanced data visualization, and powerful reporting tools. Make smarter decisions faster and elevate your budgeting, forecasting, and modeling. Learn more at http://www.workday.com/fpaguyFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Carl:LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/carlseidmanWebsite - https://seidmanfinancial.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Earn 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[02:29] - What Great FP&A Looks Like[07:12] - The Evolution of FP&A Roles[17:27] - Communication as a Key Skill[21:05] - The Role of Feedback[30:05] - The Power of Presentation[34:39] - Influence and Strategy[41:28] - Anticipation and Scenario Analysis[47:06] - LinkedIn Learning Course[49:24] - Rapid-Fire Questions

In this insightful episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, "The FP&A Guy," explores the dynamic world of financial planning and analysis with guest Greg Adams, a seasoned CFO and author. They discuss how finance professionals can drive value through storytelling, critical thinking, and strategic insights. The conversation also delves into Greg's journey from leading finance teams to writing an international crime thriller with an accountant hero, redefining the image of finance professionals.Greg Adams is the SVP and CFO of the American Management Association (AMA), with over 25 years of leadership experience in public and private finance. He is a CPA and a published author whose debut novel, Green Shades: Accountants Aren't Supposed to Die This Way, combines financial intrigue with a thrilling narrative. Greg's leadership mission is centered on fostering corporate excellence and empowering finance professionals to embrace their strategic potential.Expect to Learn:The evolving role of FP&A as a strategic partner in business.Why storytelling is a critical skill for finance professionals.How to leverage external data and AI for more robust financial planning.Insights into the value of "power skills" like communication and leadership.Greg’s journey writing a crime thriller that challenges stereotypes about accountants.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"If you control information, you control the world. FP&A professionals need to look beyond internal data and consider external benchmarks." - Greg Adams"AI and machine learning allow us to move beyond just historical data to anticipate what’s coming." - Greg Adams"Step away from your desk and talk to people. The best insights often come from conversations." - Greg AdamsGreg Adams offered a fresh and inspiring perspective on the role of finance professionals. From emphasizing the art of storytelling in FP&A to advocating for the integration of external data and AI, Greg highlighted how finance can be a driver of change and innovation.Plan Smarter with Workday:Workday Adaptive Planning empowers organizations with AI-driven insights, advanced data visualization, and powerful reporting tools. Make smarter decisions faster and elevate your budgeting, forecasting, and modeling. Learn more at http://www.workday.com/fpaguyFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Greg:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregdadams/Website - https://www.cpa-author.com/Email - mailto:greg@cpa-author.comSpecial Offer for ListenersThe first three listeners to contact Greg at greg@cpa-author.com can access a free AMA course (valued at $2,000-$3,000). Mention FP&A Tomorrow in your email!Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Earn 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[01:39] - Meet Greg Adams[04:01] - What is Great FP&A?[06:17] - External Data and AI in Finance[10:46] - The Art of Storytelling in Finance[11:59] - Greg’s Role at AMA[19:38] - Writing Green Shades[27:58] - Lessons from a CFO's Career[38:31] - Evolution of CFO Role[43:23] - Tips for FP&A Professionals[51:53] - Final Thoughts and Takeaways

In this insightful episode of FP&A Tomorrow, we explore the dynamic relationship between Financial Planning and Analysis and Supply Chain Planning. Host Paul Barnhurst aka The FP&A Guy discusses how these two critical functions can work together to create better outcomes for businesses, particularly in challenging environments. With supply chain disruptions and evolving market needs, aligning these disciplines is more vital than ever.Guests: Lyndsey Weber, a seasoned expert with a background in supply chain and finance, and Marcia Williams, a supply chain planning professional with roots in accounting. Lyndsey transitioned from ExxonMobil to tech, where she focuses on optimizing supply chain planning with financial insights. Marcia brings a wealth of knowledge on integrating operational and financial strategies to drive value and efficiency.Expect to Learn:How FP&A and supply chain planning intersect and complement each other.Key differences in planning horizons and decision-making processes between FP&A and supply chain.The role of integrated business planning (IBP) in achieving cross-functional alignment.Strategies to enhance communication and collaboration between finance and supply chain teams.Real-world examples of overcoming challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and creating value through supply chain optimization.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"Every company has supply and demand, whether it's a product or a service. Matching them is the core of supply chain planning." - Lyndsey Weber"Finance and supply chain must combine top-down and bottom-up approaches for effective planning." - Marcia Williams"The more granular focus in supply chain planning complements the high-level strategy in FP&A." - Lyndsey WeberFrom breaking down the barriers between FP&A and supply chain to leveraging collaboration for unlocking new opportunities, this episode highlighted actionable strategies for creating alignment and driving business value. Finance and supply chain are two sides of the same coin, and when aligned, they enable better, faster decisions that benefit the entire organization.Plan Smarter with Workday:Workday Adaptive Planning empowers organizations with AI-driven insights, advanced data visualization, and powerful reporting tools. Make smarter decisions faster and elevate your budgeting, forecasting, and modeling. Learn more at http://www.workday.com/fpaguyFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Lyndsey:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndsey-weber/Follow Marcia:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marciadwilliams/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Earn 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[01:43] - Meet the Guests[04:09] - Career Shifts and Lessons Learned[07:38] - Understanding Supply Chain Planning[12:21] - Challenges in Integrated Planning[17:51] - Ensuring Cross-Functional Alignment[26:59] - Leveraging Metrics for Better Collaboration[37:00] - Key Advice for FP&A Professionals[42:14] - Skillsets in Finance vs. Supply Chain Planning[49:56] - Fun and Personal Insights[54:10] - Conclusion

In this engaging episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, the FP&A Guy, sits down with Mark Hansen, CFO of Entrata. Their conversation explores financial planning and analysis (FP&A), strategic business decision-making, and the evolving role of finance teams in organizations. This episode provides valuable insights into how FP&A professionals can align metrics, foster relationships, and utilize data to empower strategic growth.Mark Hansen brings a wealth of experience as the CFO of Entrata, a comprehensive ERP platform for the multifamily housing industry. Prior to this role, Mark held pivotal finance positions at Pluralsight and Skullcandy, leading finance teams through periods of significant growth. A CPA with a master’s in accounting from the University of Utah, Mark combines technical expertise with a strategic vision, making him a thought leader in the financial industry.Expect to LearnUnderstanding the transition from accurate forecasting to strategic decision-making.Why FP&A is positioned as the "center of the universe" for organizational data.Practical advice on aligning and rolling forward metrics to track business performance.How to leverage diverse experiences (the "bingo card" approach) to achieve career growth.Insights into hiring, mentoring, and fostering curiosity and technical skills within finance teams.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"Understanding unit economics, gross margin, and other granular financial details helps inform better business decisions." - Mark Hansen"Understanding SEC reporting is like leveling up in financial knowledge. It's the major leagues of financial reporting." - Mark Hansen"FP&A teams of the future will not just focus on budgeting and forecasting but also on data analytics and business modeling." - Mark HansenIn this insightful episode, Mark shares valuable advice on career development, stressing the importance of building strong relationships, acquiring diverse skills, and being proactive in one's career progression. Mark’s focus on curiosity, technical skills, and business partnering provides a roadmap for any finance professional looking to elevate their impact.Plan Smarter with Workday:Workday Adaptive Planning empowers organizations with AI-driven insights, advanced data visualization, and powerful reporting tools. Make smarter decisions faster and elevate your budgeting, forecasting, and modeling. Learn more at http://www.workday.com/fpaguyFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Mark:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hansen-7b79045/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Earn 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[01:57] Introduction to Mark Hansen[02:55] Defining Great FP&A[08:41] Lessons from SEC Reporting[15:01] Pluralsight’s Growth Journey[25:48] The Challenges of Metric Alignment[32:22] First CFO Role at Entrata[39:10] The Hardest Roles to Fill in Finance[44:35] The Future of FP&A Teams[49:26] Fun insights into Mark’s hobbies [52:49] Final Takeaway: Business Partnering

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, explores the evolving world of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) systems. With guest Charlie Liu, the conversation shifts to the art and science of optimizing financial tools and processes to drive business success. Charlie brings a wealth of experience in FP&A, systems consulting, and fractional CFO services, offering listeners practical advice on navigating challenges in financial operations.Charlie Liu, founder of Monte Carlo Consulting, has over 15 years of expertise in corporate performance management and FP&A systems. He specializes in helping businesses streamline operations with the right tools, enhance financial visibility, and achieve data-driven decision-making. Charlie’s unique background in consulting, product management, and sales enables him to deliver strategic and technical insights that empower organizations.Expect to LearnKey traits of successful FP&A systems and how to separate from traditional accountingWhen and how to implement financial planning tools with key indicatorsOvercoming challenges in digital transformation and common pitfalls to avoidLeveraging generative AI to revolutionize FP&A processes and reportingLessons learned from entrepreneurial ventures and adapting FP&A for startupsHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"There’s no perfect tool; focus on understanding your needs and defining negotiables versus non-negotiables." - Charlie Liu"Data is the foundation of FP&A. Clean, accurate data is essential for meaningful insights." - Charlie Liu"We’re at a point where AI can handle repetitive tasks, allowing FP&A professionals to focus on strategy." - Charlie LiuIn this insightful episode, Charlie Liu shared his expertise on optimizing FP&A systems and leveraging the power of generative AI. His advice resonates for businesses of all sizes as he emphasized the importance of customer focus, strategic thinking, and adaptability. Streamline Financial Planning with Kepion: Scale and automate your financial planning beyond spreadsheets with Kepion—trusted by top industries to automate, customize, and optimize complex planning. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3YI5cfpFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Charlie:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliexwliu/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Earn 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[01:57] - Introduction to the Episode and Guest[03:50] - What Does Great FP&A Look Like?[09:48] - Lessons from an E-Commerce CFO Role[17:30] - Why Planning Tools Matter[23:39] - Key Takeaways from OnPlan Experience[30:38] - Overcoming Digital Transformation Challenges[37:56] - Framework for Choosing FP&A Tools[45:51] - The Future of FP&A with AI[54:17] - Closing and Final Thoughts

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, dives into the evolving role of the CFO and the impact of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) on modern businesses. Steve Rosvold joins the show to explore the critical skills and strategies that drive success in financial leadership today.Steve Rosvold is a seasoned finance leader and the founder of CFO University, a platform dedicated to developing CFOs and aspiring financial leaders. With a robust career spanning over two decades, including a CFO role at ConAgra Malt, Steve shares his journey from corporate finance to entrepreneurship, offering invaluable insights into the CFO's expanding role.Expect to Learn:The evolution of the CFO role: from cost controller to strategic partner.Key challenges CFOs face in balancing tactical and strategic priorities.How FP&A professionals can better align with business objectives to drive value.The importance of technical and soft skills in transitioning from FP&A to the CFO role.Practical advice for aspiring CFOs, including mentorship and self-awareness.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"Human capital is becoming one of the most critical areas for CFOs to manage and measure." - Steve Rosvold"One of the best ways to refine your communication is to get feedback from mentors."  - Steve Rosvold"The foundation of FP&A is in accounting, but its value lies in its forward-looking insights."  - Steve RosvoldThis episode of FP&A Tomorrow provided a masterclass in the evolving landscape of financial leadership. From the significance of self-awareness to the need for actionable insights, Steve emphasized the blend of technical expertise and interpersonal skills required for success.Streamline Financial Planning with Kepion: Scale and automate your financial planning beyond spreadsheets with Kepion—trusted by top industries to automate, customize, and optimize complex planning. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3YI5cfpFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Steve:Website - https://www.cfo.university/LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/steverosvold/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Earn 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[02:13] Steve’s Career Journey and Background[03:57] Transition Challenges as a CFO[09:53] The Changing CFO Role and Responsibilities [14:11] FP&A Transformation as a critical function [21:37] Skills and mindset shifts for aspiring CFO’s[29:14] Steve’s Approach to Training Finance Leaders [34:31] Great FP&A Practices[45:29] Embracing Generative AI Tools[55:08] Closing Advice and Wrap Up

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, also known as The FP&A Guy, dives deep into the world of financial planning and analysis with Kathy Svetina. As a fractional CFO for businesses, Kathy shares her expertise in transforming small to mid-sized companies’ financial health and operational efficiency. She discusses her five-part framework for building a solid financial foundation and shares insights on how smaller businesses can leverage FP&A to drive sustainable growth and avoid common financial pitfalls.Kathy Svetina is the founder of Newcastle Finance, specializing in fractional CFO services for businesses with $10 million+ in annual revenue. With over 14 years in senior-level FP&A roles in Fortune 500 companies, Kathy brings top-level financial acumen to smaller enterprises, helping them scale while improving financial stability and operational efficiency. Passionate about strategic finance, Kathy provides invaluable advice on how FP&A functions can help build resilient and thriving companies.Expect to LearnKathy’s five-part framework that structures financial health Practical approaches to FP&A for smaller businessesThe critical role of financial systems and processesThe importance of internal controls and risk managementTips for effective financial storytelling and influenceHere are a few relevant quotes from the episode:“I created Newcastle Finance to bring big-league financial savvy to smaller businesses that want to scale sustainably.” - Kathy Svetina“For small businesses, strong internal controls are essential to protect against risk and ensure financial security.” - Kathy Svetina“Good accounting and FP&A systems help the business see trends and understand what’s generating revenue against expenses.” - Kathy SvetinaKathy shows how establishing solid foundations—like effective bookkeeping, robust internal controls, and meaningful financial analysis—can drive growth and stability. Emphasizing the value of communication and active listening, Kathy encourages FP&A professionals to think beyond reporting and embrace their role as strategic partners within the organization. Streamline Financial Planning with Kepion: Scale and automate your financial planning beyond spreadsheets with Kepion—trusted by top industries to automate, customize, and optimize complex planning. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3YI5cfpFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Kathy:Website - https://www.newcastlefinance.us/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ksvetina/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Earn 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[01:57] – Kathy Svetina's Background[03:58] – Defining Great FP&A[07:07] – Why Kathy Left Corporate Finance[09:57] – A Success Story in Financial Transformation[19:26] – The Five-Part Financial Framework[32:10] – FP&A's Role in Bridging Business Silos[43:06] – Key Skills for FP&A Professionals[49:34] – Personal Insights and Interests[54:06] – Parting Advice on FP&A Excellence

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, the FP&A Guy, dives deep into the art of data storytelling with analytics expert Brent Dykes. With extensive experience in data visualization and analytics, Brent shares insights on how finance professionals can effectively communicate data insights. He emphasizes that data storytelling is more than visuals—it's about crafting a compelling narrative that bridges data and decision-making.Brent Dykes is the founder of Analytics Hero, a consultancy dedicated to data storytelling. He's also an author and educator with years of experience in data analytics, consulting, and data visualization. Brent wrote the book Effective Data Storytelling and has taught data visualization at the University of Utah. His work focuses on enhancing how organizations use data to inform strategy and decisions.Expect to Learn:The core components of data storytelling: data, narrative, and visuals.Why narrative is often the missing link in data-driven presentations.The role of empathy and audience understanding in effective communication.Practical steps for creating a data-driven culture within your organization.How human intuition complements data in decision-making processes.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:"The last mile of analytics is where data storytelling lives. That’s where insights turn into action." - Brent Dykes"It’s the combination of data, narrative, and visuals that makes a message stick and drives action." - Brent Dykes"If you just present a problem without recommendations, you're leaving too much on the table. A story includes a path forward." - Brent DykesBy explaining the science behind storytelling and offering practical advice, Brent Dykes underscores that empathy, clarity, and audience engagement are at the heart of effective data storytelling. FP&A professionals are encouraged to embrace this skill, not only to communicate data effectively but to foster a more data-driven culture in their organizations. Streamline Financial Planning with Kepion: Scale and automate your financial planning beyond spreadsheets with Kepion—trusted by top industries to automate, customize, and optimize complex planning. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3YI5cfpFollow FP&A Tomorrow:Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 Follow Brent:Website - https://www.analyticshero.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentdykes/Book - https://www.effectivedatastorytelling.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Earn 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[01:37] - Introduction to the episode[02:44] - The Importance of Clarity in FP&A[09:02] - The Last Mile of Analytics[11:25] - Defining Data Storytelling[20:03] - Creating a Data-Driven Culture[25:22] - The Psychology Behind Storytelling[36:03] - Lessons Learned from Early Data Communication Mistakes[42:36] - Getting Started with Data Storytelling[52:13] - Closing Thoughts and Course Announcement