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In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Mark Proctor to discuss why finance teams struggle with automation, how better data practices can improve reporting, and why FP&A professionals need to think beyond traditional Excel methods. Mark also shares his approach to using AI, building efficient processes, and creating more time for strategic business partnering. Mark Proctor is the Director of Twenty Seven Solutions Limited, a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP), and the creator of Excel Off the Grid and Finance Team Accelerator. With 25 years of experience across accounting, financial reporting, FP&A, and business partnering, he helps finance professionals automate repetitive tasks, improve their Excel skills, and build more efficient processes. Expect to Learn: Why data skills are essential for modern FP&A professionals.How better data structures can reduce manual Excel work.Why end-to-end processes matter more than individual Excel features.How to use AI effectively without relying on it for everything.Why curiosity and influence are important for business partnering. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “AI cannot fix it all for you. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't use AI.” - Mark Proctor“The one piece of advice I would give is the first normal form inside a table in Excel.” - Mark Proctor Mark explains why finance teams need to move beyond manual spreadsheets and adopt a data-first approach. By building better processes and using tools such as Power Query and Power Pivot, FP&A professionals can save time, improve reporting, and focus more on supporting business decisions. Follow Mark: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markstephenproctor/Website: https://exceloffthegrid.com/ Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. Explore Lineos Reporting Intelligence:Ready to transform financial reporting? See how Lineos Reporting Intelligence helps finance teams connect ERP data directly to Excel, access current data, and spend less time assembling reports.Watch the Reporting Intelligence demo: https://www.insightsoftware.com/lineos/resources/Reporting-intelligence-demo/?utm_source=thefpaguy&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=lineos-influencer-oct&utm_content=newsletter1 Earn 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 FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. In Today's Episode:[00:00] - Introduction [04:50] - Defining Great FP&A [07:17] - Journey Into Accounting [16:21] - AI in Finance [22:32] - Data Challenges in Finance [28:17] - Rethinking Excel [31:30] - Data-Driven Processes [38:24] - File Management & Version Control [42:45] - Structured Data Basics [45:44] - Improving Finance Processes [50:29] - Essential FP&A Skills [55:47] - Closing Remarks & Thanks

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper discuss how AI is changing the finance technology stack and what it means for CFOs deciding whether to buy new software, build custom solutions, or improve their existing systems. They explore whether AI could disrupt traditional SaaS platforms, where agentic AI is delivering value, and why core financial systems remain essential. In this episode, you will discover: Why AI is changing finance technology without replacing core systems.What the Finance Stack Survey reveals about AI adoption.The difference between agentic AI and traditional automation.When finance teams should buy software or build custom solutions.Why data quality, integration, and security matter for AI success. Paul and Glenn emphasize that finance leaders should focus on solving real business problems rather than chasing new technology. The key is choosing reliable tools, improving data connectivity, and using AI where it delivers meaningful value. Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii Follow Paul: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike. In Today's Episode: [00:00] - Trailer [04:21] - Is SaaS at Risk? [10:27] - Buy vs. Build: Filling the Gaps [11:09] - Finance Stack Survey Findings [14:00] - What Is Agentic AI? [18:20] - AI Adoption and Software Satisfaction [23:36] - Data and Integration Challenges [29:41] - Custom AI Solutions [36:17] - The Future Finance Stack [42:51] - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Taimour Zaman to discuss why AI-generated financial models often fail to convince lenders, what investors really look for when evaluating financing opportunities, and how financial modelers can build more credible models by focusing on risk, capital protection, and realistic exit strategies. Taimour is the Founder and Chief Capital Strategist of AltFunds Global, a financial advisory firm with offices in Canada and Switzerland. With more than 11 years of experience, he has advised operators and project sponsors on structured finance transactions ranging from $1 million to $500 million. He has developed 13 structured finance programs and built a network of more than 900 brokers. Expect to Learn: Why AI-generated financial models often fail to meet lenders' expectations.The three critical factors investors look for: capital protection, returns, and exit strategies.How to approach financial modeling from a lender's perspective rather than a borrower's.Why geopolitical risks, currency fluctuations, and unexpected events matter in financing decisions. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “Put yourself in the lender banker's shoe. Know and understand the world is full of shocks and surprises and build me a model that protects and manages my risk.” — Taimour Zaman“So it's AI assisted model building rather than AI building the entire model.” — Taimour Zaman Taimour explains that a strong financial model is not simply about projecting growth or presenting impressive numbers. It must demonstrate how investors can protect their capital, receive their expected returns, and recover their investment when things do not go according to plan. Follow Taimour: Website: https://altfundsglobal.com/ Substack: https://taimour1.substack.com/ Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqW Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration that has undergone human editorial review. In Today's Episode:[00:00] - Trailer [06:16] - Taimour's Journey Into Structured Finance [10:34] - Real Estate & Alternative Financing [16:55] - Building Models From an Investor's Perspective [19:57] - Managing Risk & Exit Strategies [22:20] - What Lenders Look for in Financial Models [27:17] - Real-World Financing Risks [32:14] - The Right Role for AI in Modeling [36:00] - Rapid Fire & Closing Advice

In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Jon Laudie to discuss how FP&A can become a critical business function, why finance and operations need to work together, and how FP&A can prepare professionals for senior leadership. Jon also shares what he has learned from serving as both President and CFO of Zerorez and how that experience has changed his approach to leadership. Jon Laudie is the President and CFO of Zerorez. He began his career in M&A and valuation before moving into corporate and operational FP&A roles at technology and consumer companies. His experience also includes investor relations, M&A integration, and building FP&A capabilities. Jon is also the co-author of Roots, Relationships and Results. Expect to Learn: How to build an FP&A function that the business values and trusts.Why change management is critical to FP&A transformation.How FP&A can prepare professionals for operational leadership.Why trust and relationships are essential to effective leadership.Which technical and soft skills can help FP&A professionals become CFOs. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “If you're not bringing the people along with you, the change management is nearly impossible and FP&A is not going to be successful.” - Jon Laudie“You have to be a strategic partner at the executive table.” - Jon Laudie Jon explains that successful FP&A transformation starts by meeting the business where it is rather than immediately pushing best practices. Building trust through better data, visibility, and useful insights creates a foundation for more advanced planning and forecasting. Follow Jon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonlaudie/Website: rootsrelationshipsresults.com Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. Explore Lineos Reporting Intelligence:Ready to transform financial reporting? See how Lineos Reporting Intelligence helps finance teams connect ERP data directly to Excel, access current data, and spend less time assembling reports.Watch the Reporting Intelligence demo: https://www.insightsoftware.com/lineos/resources/Reporting-intelligence-demo/?utm_source=thefpaguy&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=lineos-influencer-oct&utm_content=newsletter1 Earn 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 FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on Earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. In Today's Episode:[00:00] - Finance Meets Operations [01:32] - Jon’s Career Journey [05:41] - Building FP&A at Zerorez [10:19] - Change Management [16:26] - President & CFO [24:13] - Finance & Operations [31:52] - Writing the Book [34:32] - Leadership Lessons [42:48] - Trust & Relationships [51:18] - The “As Soon As” Trap [56:46] - Skills for Future CFOs [59:33] - Rapid Fire & Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper discuss why finance professionals should stop chasing every new AI model and focus instead on building strong processes, durable skills, and better workflows. They also explore the race toward AGI, AI guardrails, and how quickly the technology landscape is changing. Paul and Glenn explain that the real advantage is not knowing every new model or benchmark. It is knowing how to use AI effectively, understand processes, and build systems that can adapt as the tools continue to evolve. In this episode, you will discover: Why keeping up with every new AI model is becoming impossible.Why process design matters more than chasing the latest tool.How AI is changing the way finance professionals work.Which AI skills are likely to remain valuable over time.Why governance and guardrails matter as automation increases. Paul and Glenn explain that finance professionals do not need to master every new AI release. Instead, they should choose useful tools, learn the fundamentals, and focus on building repeatable processes that can work across platforms. Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii Follow Paul: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike. In Today's Episode: [00:58] - The Race for AGI [04:31] - AGI Risks, Regulation & Uncertainty [07:12] - AI Is Moving Too Fast [10:32] - Astra vs. Claude [15:09] - Secret CFO’s Take on AI Updates [21:38] - Wrap-Up

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Danielle Stein Fairhurst to discuss how AI is reshaping financial modeling, what modelers need to do to stay relevant, and why strategic thinking matters more than ever. Danielle also shares practical lessons from training financial modelers, working with real-world client models, and preparing for the Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) exam. Danielle Stein Fairhurst is the Principal Financial Modeling Specialist at Plum Solutions, a Microsoft Excel MVP, Master Financial Modeler with the Financial Modeling Institute, LinkedIn Learning instructor, and internationally recognized financial modeling trainer and speaker. She is also the author of Financial Modeling in Excel For Dummies and Using Excel for Business and Financial Modeling. Expect to Learn: How AI is changing financial modeling.Why modelers need to keep learning and experimenting.How to use AI without outsourcing your thinking.Why real-world models differ from training examples.How to prepare effectively for the AFM exam. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “AI is already building financial models, and that is quite terrifying to me.” - Danielle Stein Fairhurst“I think it's important that we just sit down and think strategically about what we want rather than outsourcing all of your creativity and all of your thinking to AI.” - Danielle Stein Fairhurst Danielle explains that AI can save time and help modelers go deeper with analysis, but it shouldn't replace independent thinking. She also shares why simplicity matters in real-world models and why practice and speed are essential when preparing for the AFM exam. Follow Danielle: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellesteinfairhurst Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqW In Today's Episode:[00:48] - Danielle's Background [01:41] - Modeling Journey [02:59] - Careers & AI [05:58] - AI & Financial Modeling [11:34] - AI in Everyday Work [13:31] - Real-World Models [17:20] - AFM Preparation [19:09] - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with David Den Boer to debate the future of enterprise performance management, Excel, and AI. They explore whether traditional EPM platforms are being disrupted, how AI could reshape forecasting and finance workflows, and why governance, transparency, and accountability still matter. David Den Boer is the CEO and Founder of Column5 Consulting and Darwin Analytics. He began his career as an EPM administrator at a Fortune 500 company and later worked with OutlookSoft, which was acquired by SAP and became part of SAP BPC. With more than 20 years of experience in EPM, David works with large enterprises on performance management and develops practical solutions designed to help organizations get more value from their EPM environments. Expect to Learn: Why Excel and EPM platforms may be harder to replace than expected.How AI is changing the build-versus-buy decision for finance technology.Where AI can support forecasting without removing human accountability.Why reproducibility, auditability, and governance still matter.How finance teams should balance AI innovation with existing EPM systems. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “There’s really no benefit to avoiding Excel.” - David Den Boer“Everyone has to have an AI strategy as far out as they can see, which might be six months.” - David Den Boer David explains that AI can significantly reduce the cost of building and extending finance solutions, but large organizations still need deterministic calculations, multi-user workflows, auditability, and clear accountability. Follow David: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daviddenboer/Website: https://column5.com/ Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. Explore Lineos Reporting Intelligence:Ready to transform financial reporting? See how Lineos Reporting Intelligence helps finance teams connect ERP data directly to Excel, access current data, and spend less time assembling reports.Watch the Reporting Intelligence demo:https://www.insightsoftware.com/lineos/resources/Reporting-intelligence-demo/?utm_source=thefpaguy&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=lineos-influencer-oct&utm_content=newsletter1 Earn 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 FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. In Today's Episode:[00:00] - Trailer [03:46] - What Great FP&A Looks Like [04:08] - Is Excel Dead? [06:50] - Is EPM Dead? [14:18] - Build vs. Buy [18:40] - AI-Led Forecasting [26:22] - Reproducibility & Auditability [31:33] - The Cost of Change [39:06] - AI & EPM Together [45:24] - Skills & Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper discuss the accelerating pace of AI development and why trying to keep up with every new model is becoming a losing battle. They explore what finance professionals should focus on instead, including AI workflows, process design, data, governance, and automation. Paul and Glenn also discuss how AI is changing the way finance teams work. As tools become more capable, they believe the lasting advantage will come from knowing how to structure processes, give clear instructions, manage AI-powered workflows, and apply human judgment where it matters most. In this episode, you will discover: Why finance professionals should stop chasing every new AI model.Which AI skills are likely to remain valuable as tools continue to change.Why process thinking, data, and orchestration are becoming more important.What risks finance teams should consider when using vibe coding and automation.Why governance and human oversight still matter in AI-powered workflows. Paul and Glenn explain that finance professionals do not need to constantly switch tools to gain value from AI. Instead, they should focus on building strong processes that can work across different platforms as the technology continues to evolve. Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii Follow Paul: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike. In Today's Episode: [00:00] - Welcome [02:21] - The Race for AGI [08:28] - AI Is Moving Fast [17:38] - Stop Chasing Models [19:43] - Durable AI Skills [25:03] - Data & Orchestration [28:08] - Vibe Coding Risks [32:18] - AI Governance [34:42] - The Cost of AI [42:07] - What to Focus On [44:35] - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Danielle Stein Fairhurst to discuss how AI is changing financial modeling, why modelers need to keep learning, and how dynamic arrays are shaping the future of Excel. Danielle also shares her thoughts on model design, AFM exam preparation, and why strategic thinking still matters in an AI-driven world. Danielle Stein Fairhurst is the Principal Financial Modeling Specialist at Plum Solutions, a Microsoft Excel MVP, Master Financial Modeler with the Financial Modeling Institute, LinkedIn Learning instructor, and internationally recognized financial modeling trainer and speaker. She is also the author of Financial Modeling in Excel For Dummies and Using Excel for Business and Financial Modelling. Expect to Learn: How AI is changing financial modeling.Why modelers should not outsource all their thinking to AI.How dynamic arrays are changing Excel modeling.What it takes to prepare for the AFM exam.Why simplicity and strong model design still matter. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “AI is already building financial models, and that is quite terrifying to me.” - Danielle Stein Fairhurst“I think it’s important that we just sit down and think strategically about what we want, rather than outsourcing all of your creativity and all of your thinking to AI.” - Danielle Stein Fairhurst Danielle explains that AI can now handle many technical tasks that once required significant modeling expertise. She believes modelers should embrace these tools while still relying on their own judgment, creativity, and strategic thinking. Follow Danielle: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellesteinfairhurst Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqW Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration that has undergone human editorial review. In Today's Episode:[00:00] - Trailer [05:19] - AI and the Future of Financial Modeling [08:30] - Financial Modeling Pet Peeves [10:21] - Updating Courses with AI [15:34] - Lessons From Danielle’s Pilgrimage [18:26] - AI Building Financial Models [27:30] - Training vs. Real-World Modeling [31:01] - Preparing for the AFM Exam [35:35] - Dynamic Arrays in Financial Modeling [40:24] - Lessons From Past Models [44:47] - Rapid Fire: Excel & Modeling [48:41] - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst and co-host Glenn Snyder sit down with Valerie Martin to discuss how AI is changing FP&A, leadership, and business partnering. They explore why greater efficiency does not automatically create greater value and how finance teams can use AI without losing judgment, context, or trust with the business. Valerie Martin is a Finance Executive specializing in FP&A and strategic finance, with experience across GTM, SaaS, AI, and value creation. A former Autodesk finance leader and San Francisco FP&A Board Ambassador, Valerie brings extensive experience in business partnering, finance transformation, and helping organizations make better strategic decisions. Expect to Learn: Why AI efficiency does not always create more value.How AI is changing the skills FP&A teams need.Why judgment and business context still matter.How leaders should rethink training and development.Why communication and trust remain critical in FP&A. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “AI could help us get the answer faster, but you can't outsource accountability.” - Valerie Martin“The measurement is about the value, not the production.” - Glenn Snyder Valerie explains that AI can automate variance analysis, reporting, data cleanup, and other repetitive work, but faster production is only useful if teams turn that saved time into greater business value. As AI takes on more technical work, FP&A professionals need to strengthen their judgment, curiosity, business acumen, and communication skills. Follow Valerie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-martin-342878/Email: [email protected] Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. Explore Lineos Reporting Intelligence:Ready to transform financial reporting? See how Lineos Reporting Intelligence helps finance teams connect ERP data directly to Excel, access current data, and spend less time assembling reports.Watch the Reporting Intelligence demo: https://www.insightsoftware.com/lineos/resources/Reporting-intelligence-demo/?utm_source=thefpaguy&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=lineos-influencer-oct&utm_content=newsletter1 Earn 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 FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. In Today’s Episode:[00:00] -Trailer [01:17] - Hard-Coded Opinion [04:54] - How AI Is Changing FP&A Skills [06:16] - Where AI Adds the Most Value [13:51] - When AI Efficiency Doesn't Create Value [15:03] - Judgment, Context & Accountability [19:46] - Redesigning FP&A Work for AI [20:51] - Why Communication Still Matters [27:35] - Turning Saved Time Into Greater Value [34:20] - What Differentiates Finance in the AI Era [41:22] - How FP&A Professionals Stay Valuable [46:27] - Closing & CPE Information

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Glenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst sit down with Matija Nakic, CEO and Co-founder of Farseer, to discuss how AI is changing financial planning, enterprise software, and decision-making. Matija shares why asking the right questions matters, how AI can accelerate planning workflows, and why strong data foundations remain essential. Matija Nakic is the CEO and Co-founder of Farseer, an AI-native SaaS platform for business modeling, planning, and analysis. With a background in computer engineering, an MBA, and experience across B2B enterprise software, she progressed from developer to product director before co-founding Farseer. In this episode, you will discover: Why asking the right questions matters with AI.How finance can move toward a decision culture.Why clean data and context still matter.How AI can speed up modeling and planning.When Excel still makes sense for finance teams. Matija also pushes back on the idea that Excel is obsolete. She argues that spreadsheets remain excellent for rapid modeling and individual analysis, but become harder to manage when collaboration, large datasets, version control, and auditability enter the picture Follow Matija: LinkedIn: https://hr.linkedin.com/in/matija-nakic Company: https://www.farseer.com/ Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii Follow Paul: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike. In Today’s Episode: [02:18] - Why Farseer Was Built [04:12] - Solving Complex Enterprise Planning [05:11] - AI, Vibe Coding & Enterprise Software [06:57] - Building Farseer’s AI Modeler [10:05] - How AI Accelerates Development [11:33] - Building for Technical Finance Users [12:41] - Why Asking the Right Questions Matters [15:37] - AI Context, Guardrails & Governance [17:30] - Why Strong Data Foundations Still Matter [18:23] - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Dan Mayoh to discuss his career in financial modeling, lessons from model auditing, and why he sees Excel as one of the world’s most accessible programming languages. Dan also shares how mathematical modeling, poker, and probability have shaped his approach to risk and decision-making under uncertainty. Dan Mayoh is the Founder and CEO of Fintega Pty Ltd and a financial modeling and spreadsheet specialist with more than 15 years of experience. With a background in actuarial studies, Dan began his career in model auditing before moving into financial modeling and consulting. He also placed second in the inaugural ModelOff competition and was an early CFM holder with the Financial Modeling Institute. Expect to Learn: Why Excel can be viewed as a programming language.What model auditing teaches you about model design.How Modeloff helped Dan grow as a modeler and consultant.How mathematical modeling helps quantify risk and uncertainty.Why good decisions should not be judged only by outcomes. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “Excel is really just the most accessible programming language in the world.” - Dan Mayoh“Sometimes you win. Sometimes you lose, even when you make the right decision.” - Dan Mayoh Dan explains that strong financial modeling goes beyond formulas and functions. Structure, navigation, error checks, usability, and designing around the end user all play an important role in creating models that are easier to understand, update, and trust. Follow Dan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-mayoh-255227/ Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqW Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration that has undergone human editorial review. In Today's Episode:[00:00] - Trailer [03:40] - Dan’s Financial Modeling Journey [06:05] - Building a Career in Financial Modeling [12:14] - Modeling as Software Development [15:09] - Financial Modeling Horror Stories [19:19] - Lessons From Model Auditing [22:03] - Competing in ModelOff [27:39] - Mathematical Modeling of Games [32:04] - Modeling Risk in Real-World Projects [35:13] - Decision-Making Under Uncertainty [40:53] - Rapid Fire: Excel & Modeling [44:22] - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Chithra Rajagopalan, Head of Finance at Obsidian Security, to discuss what great FP&A looks like in high-growth companies, why strong data foundations matter, and how finance teams can become more strategic business partners. Chithra shares lessons from scaling finance teams, supporting hypergrowth companies, and using data to influence better decisions. Chithra Rajagopalan is a finance leader with experience across high-growth SaaS and AI security companies. She currently serves as Head of Finance at Obsidian Security, where she oversees financial strategy and operations. Her previous roles include finance leadership positions at Glue, ClickUp, and People.ai, following earlier experience at Deloitte and Ernst & Young. Expect to Learn: Why great FP&A goes beyond reporting.How strong data foundations support better decisions.What finance teams need during hypergrowth.How AI is changing finance roles and workflows.Why cybersecurity matters when finance adopts AI. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “Accounting is always going to give you exposure to what already happened. You still need a strong FP&A partner to know what to do in the future.” - Chithra Rajagopalan“You can have as much data as you want, but if you don’t utilize it to make decisions, surface risk, or hold people accountable, it’s pointless.” - Chithra Rajagopalan Chithra explains that strong FP&A starts with reliable data, business understanding, communication, and the ability to prioritize what actually moves the business forward. For finance professionals, the growing use of AI also means shifting from task execution toward an orchestration mindset, where teams understand systems, workflows, automation, and business strategy rather than simply producing reports. Follow Chithra: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chithra-rajagopalan-mbaWebsite: https://www.obsidiansecurity.com/ Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. Earn 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 FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. In Today’s Episode:[00:00] - Trailer [05:07] - What Great FP&A Looks Like [11:16] - Building Finance During Hypergrowth [15:19] - Creating a Culture of Data [17:52] - Three Foundations of Strong FP&A Teams [29:31] - Inside Obsidian Security [34:38] - AI, Finance & Cybersecurity [39:42] - Moving Beyond AI Hype [44:43] - Why Finance Needs AI Guardrails [47:24] - The Skills FP&A Professionals Need [50:01] - The Future of Finance Teams [57:08] - Why Startup Chaos Builds Better Leaders [59:15] - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Glenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst sit down with Matija Nakic, CEO and Co-founder of Farseer, to discuss how AI is changing financial planning, enterprise software, and decision-making. Matija shares why asking better questions matters, how finance teams can build stronger AI workflows, and where Excel still fits in modern planning. Matija Nakic is the CEO and Co-founder of Farseer, an AI-native SaaS platform for business modeling, planning, and analysis. With a background in computer engineering, an MBA, and experience across B2B enterprise software, she has progressed from developer to product director and now leads Farseer’s mission to improve how financial professionals plan, model, and make decisions. In this episode, you will discover: Why asking the right questions matters with AI.How finance can build a stronger decision culture.Why clean data and governance still matter.How AI can speed up planning and forecasting.When to use Excel versus planning software. AI can dramatically accelerate finance work, but speed alone does not create better decisions. Matija explains that effective AI adoption still depends on fundamentals such as clean data, consistent definitions, connected data sources, business logic, and human judgment Follow Matija: LinkedIn: https://hr.linkedin.com/in/matija-nakic Company: https://www.farseer.com/ Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii Follow Paul: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike. In Today’s Episode: [00:00] - Trailer [05:22] - Why Farseer Was Built [08:35] - AI and the Future of Enterprise Software [13:30] - Building Faster with AI [17:24] - Why Asking the Right Questions Matters [22:55] - The Three Levels of AI Adoption [24:57] - Building a Decision Culture [32:04] - When Excel Is Still the Right Tool [35:57] - Governance, Context & Audit Trails [36:37] - Rapid-Fire Questions [39:21] - Turning Frustration with Planning Into Farseer [40:59] - Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Oren Klaff, Private Equity Fund Manager and bestselling author of Pitch Anything, to discuss how financial modeling can support deal-making, investment decisions, and career growth. Oren shares how modeling helped him move from financial analyst to dealmaker. Oren Klaff is a Private Equity Fund Manager and the author of Pitch Anything. He began his career as a financial analyst in private equity before moving into deal-making and capital raising. Financial modeling has remained central to how he evaluates businesses and structures deals. Expect to Learn: How modeling can lead to deal-making and capital raising.Why identifying key sensitivities matters more than finding errors.How modelers can become trusted business partners.Why simple, structured models are more useful.How financial insight can help move deals forward. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “The shortest path to high status is finding something wrong.” - Oren Klaff“Your job is to make the future feel more certain.” Oren Klaff Oren explains that strong modelers do more than build spreadsheets. They identify the assumptions that drive outcomes, communicate insights clearly, and help decision-makers find practical ways to make deals work. Follow Oren: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orenklaff/ Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation today and get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqW Disclosure: Portions of this episode (such as the introduction or promotional segments) use AI-generated voice narration produced under human editorial review. In Today's Episode:[04:00] - From Modeling to Deal-Making [06:08] - Creating Business Insight [08:38] - Finding Sensitive Assumptions [09:38] - How Analysts Build Trust [10:58] - Reviewing Models Without Creating Conflict [14:41] - Structuring Better Deals [18:23] - Real-World Deal Applications [20:13] - Closing Thoughts