GrowCFO Show

Kevin Appleby
  • 5.0 (10)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED FORTNIGHTLY
GrowCFO Show

Where Finance Leaders Grow Together

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    #223 Streamlining Success: The Key to Sustainable Growth with Karina Rasic, CEO and Business Strategy Consultant, Make Business Flow

    #223 Streamlining Success: The Key to Sustainable Growth with Karina Rasic https://open.spotify.com/episode/7aOwo254gene5On21geffe Karina Rasic, CEO and Business Strategy Consultant at Make Business Flow, shares her insights on the challenges and strategies for helping female-led companies succeed in fundraising. Accessing capital is a critical issue for entrepreneurs, and Karina's experience in working with women-owned businesses provides valuable perspectives on addressing this problem. In this episode of the Grow CFO Show, Karina discusses the cultural and educational differences that impact financial literacy in Latin America, particularly the contrast between Protestant and Catholic views on money and work. She explains how these factors create unique obstacles for women seeking to build and grow their businesses. Karina's approach to supporting her clients involves empowering them to present their ventures in a more confident, "male-like" manner to potential investors.She highlights the importance of financial education, her strategies for helping female founders overcome fundraising challenges, and her own entrepreneurial journey. She also shares details about her two companies - one providing fractional CFO services and the other, a legal services platform. Karina's passion for writing and her plans for the future, including a program to help retirees start new businesses, provide a well-rounded perspective on her multifaceted career. Karina and Kevin Appleby explore the potential for growth in the Latin American market for fractional CFO services, as well as the challenges of finding qualified professionals in the region. Karina's commitment to making a positive impact and her belief in the power of entrepreneurship to drive change are evident in her words and actions.About Karina Rasic: Karina is an accomplished project manager with extensive experience in financial analysis, digital marketing, and business development. Karina specializes in CFO fractional services, financial assessments for startups, and securing funding—particularly for businesses founded and led by women. Currently, she leads initiatives at Make Businesses Flow, focusing on streamlining operations and enhancing business performance. With a strong ability to manage cross-functional teams and implement data-driven strategies, Karina is dedicated to driving organizational success and sustainable growth. Key topics covered: * Karina's background as an Argentinian with a mix of Spanish and American accents * The cultural and religious differences that impact financial literacy in Latin America * Karina's work in helping women-led companies with fundraising and presenting their businesses * Her two companies: a fractional CFO service and a legal services platform * Karina's passion for writing and her plans for the future, including a program to help retirees start new businesses * The potential for growth in the Latin American market for fractional CFO services and the challenges of finding qualified professionals

    27 min

  2. 25 FEB

    #222 Master the Art of Financial Product Design with Siqi Chen, Founder and CFO, Runway

    #222 Master the Art of Financial Product Design with Siqi Chen https://open.spotify.com/episode/019MLgaVF4N7jNvm2Ek910 Mastering the art of financial product design is a crucial skill for finance professionals in today's rapidly evolving business landscape. In this insightful podcast episode, Kevin sits down with Siqi Chen, the Founder and CFO of Runway, to explore the challenges and opportunities in creating innovative finance software. The discussion delves into the limitations of traditional finance tools, the importance of user-centric design, and the transformative potential of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Siqi Chen shares his diverse background, from his studies in mathematics to her experience working at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Siqi recounts his journey as a serial entrepreneur, highlighting the challenges she faced in understanding finance and the inspiration behind founding Runway, a finance software company aimed at revolutionizing the way businesses approach financial management. They delve into the unique features and design principles that set Runway apart from traditional finance tools. Siqi explains how Runway's focus on collaboration, data visualization, and seamless integration with other business systems addresses the pain points experienced by finance teams. The discussion also explores the role of ambient intelligence and artificial intelligence in enhancing the user experience and providing proactive insights. Kevin and Siqi also discuss the potential for collaboration between their respective organizations, exploring opportunities for joint webinars, summits, and other initiatives. The shared enthusiasm for innovation in the finance space sets the stage for a continued dialogue and the exploration of new ways to empower finance professionals in their quest to drive business success. Key topics covered: * Siqi Chen's diverse background and his journey as a serial entrepreneur * The limitations of traditional finance tools and the inspiration behind founding Runway * Runway's focus on collaboration, data visualization, and seamless integration * The role of ambient intelligence and artificial intelligence in enhancing the user experience * Potential for collaboration between Grow CFO and Runway, including joint webinars and summits * Runway's pricing and target market for mid-market companies * Siqi Chen's emphasis on the importance of user-centric design in finance software * Runway's unique features, such as fine-grained permission controls and the ability to encrypt sensitive data * The potential of finance software to revolutionize the way businesses approach financial management * The shared enthusiasm for innovation and the exploration of new opportunities in the finance space https://youtu.be/79XXRP-gKCk Links * Siqi Chen on LinkedIn

    43 min

  3. 18 FEB

    #221 The Ultimate Guide to Cost-Smart Property Management with Scot Ginsburg, Executive Managing Director, Hughes Marino

    #221 The Ultimate Guide to Cost-Smart Property Management with Scot Ginsburg https://open.spotify.com/episode/31KM37M8HM8JHmbZPtm203 Property management is a critical aspect of business operations, with real estate often representing one of the largest fixed costs for organizations. In this podcast episode, Scot Ginsburg, Executive Managing Director at Hughes Marino, shares his expertise on navigating the complexities of commercial real estate and optimizing property-related expenses.The discussion covers a range of topics, highlighting the importance of strategic planning, lease negotiations, and the evolving landscape of office and retail spaces. Ginsburg emphasizes the need for finance leaders, particularly Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), to take an active role in managing their organization's real estate portfolio, as it can have a significant impact on the bottom line. Key topics covered: * The importance of aligning real estate strategy with overall business objectives * Common pitfalls in lease negotiations and how to avoid them * The impact of remote work and changing office space utilization * Strategies for managing a portfolio of commercial properties * The role of CFOs in overseeing real estate decisions * The financial implications of rising interest rates on commercial real estate * The evolution of retail and office spaces in the digital age * The need for flexibility and adaptability in real estate planning * The value of proactive real estate management in driving business success * Effective marketing and audience engagement strategies for thought leadership content https://youtu.be/q2aJobfj6Mo Links * Scot Ginsburg on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:00:00 - Introduction to the guest and the topic * 0:05:00 - Aligning real estate strategy with business objectives * 0:10:30 - Avoiding common mistakes in lease negotiations * 0:15:45 - Adapting to the impact of remote work on office space * 0:20:00 - Strategies for managing a diverse real estate portfolio * 0:25:15 - The role of CFOs in overseeing real estate decisions * 0:30:00 - The financial implications of rising interest rates * 0:35:20 - The evolution of retail and office spaces * 0:40:00 - The need for flexibility in real estate planning * 0:45:00 - Effective marketing and audience engagement strategies Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app.

    33 min

  4. 11 FEB

    # 220 Financial Modelling Done Right: Expert Tips with Danielle Stein Fairhurst, GrowCFO Mentor

    # 220 Financial Modelling Done Right: Expert Tips with Danielle Stein Fairhurst https://open.spotify.com/episode/6sSbm92dhd0BaEzD91LJPp Financial modelling is a critical skill for finance professionals, enabling them to analyze data, forecast scenarios, and make informed business decisions. In this podcast episode, Danielle Stein Fairhurst, a renowned financial modelling expert and GrowCFO Mentor, shares her insights and best practices on mastering the art of financial modelling. Danielle's extensive experience in the field, including her work as a Microsoft MVP and the author of several books on financial modelling, makes her a valuable resource for finance professionals looking to enhance their skills. Throughout the conversation, she delves into the importance of financial modelling, the evolution of Excel as a tool, and the key techniques and strategies that can help professionals create robust and efficient models.The podcast covers a wide range of topics related to financial modelling, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Danielle's expertise and passion for the topic are evident as she discusses the various aspects of financial modelling, from best practices to the latest industry trends and developments.Key topics covered: * Danielle's background and journey into financial modelling * The importance of best practices in financial modelling, such as consistent formula usage and leveraging new Excel features * The Excel World Cup and the financial modelling world championship, where Danielle serves as a commentator * The GrowCFO financial modelling course and its structure, covering topics like financial statement linking and scenario analysis https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-8uJgv4w_I Links * Danielle Stein Fairhurst on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:15:21 Danielle's journey into financial modelling * 0:19:38 Discussing common bad habits in financial modelling and how the GrowCFO course addresses them * 0:28:59 The upcoming Excel and financial modelling world championships and the debates surrounding modelling best practices * 0:35:00 The structure and delivery of the GrowCFO financial modelling course * 0:41:45 The excitement and passion surrounding the world of financial modelling * 0:42:35 Danielle's upcoming participation in the global Excel summit * 0:43:42 Danielle's recognition as a master financial modeller with the Financial Modelling Institute * 0:44:10 Discussing affiliate opportunities and discount codes for the GrowCFO financial modelling course * 0:46:39 Strategies for promoting the GrowCFO course and engaging with past attendees * 0:48:14 The challenge of getting people to recognize the value of free train...

    25 min

  5. 4 FEB

    # 219 Celebrating 5 Years of Driving Change for Finance Leaders with Dan Wells, Founder & CEO

    # 219 Celebrating 5 Years of Driving Change for Finance Leaders with Dan Wells https://open.spotify.com/episode/1mgQkjEkaaBVBghRye7nhD Celebrating its 5th anniversary, the GrowCFO podcast takes a deep dive into the remarkable journey of the finance community platform. Led by founder and CEO Dan Wells, this special episode reflects on the evolution of the business, the key milestones, and the vision for the future. As a purpose-driven startup that has transformed into a leading resource for finance professionals worldwide, GrowCFO's story offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. Throughout the conversation, Dan and Kevin explore the challenges and triumphs that have shaped the GrowCFO narrative over the past five years. From the initial community-focused vision to the pivotal shift towards virtual and global expansion, the podcast delves into the strategic decisions, innovative programs, and the power of a dedicated team and supportive community. Key topics covered: * The evolution of GrowCFO's business model, from community-based to virtual and global * The launch and success of flagship programs like the Future CFO and CFO programs * The transition to experiential learning and the impact of the XLF (Experiential Learning for Finance) initiative * The importance of mentoring, partnerships, and the diverse team of experts that have contributed to GrowCFO's growth * The key learnings and challenges faced by the startup, including the willingness to pivot and the power of purpose-driven leadership * The future vision for GrowCFO, focusing on strategic finance, technology integration, and empowering finance teams https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prCNHnQyBDI&t=55s Links * Dan Wells on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:00:22 - Introduction and discussion of the 5-year anniversary * 0:00:44 - Reflecting on the early days and the launch of the business * 0:04:29 - Discussing the initial community-focused vision and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic * 0:08:05 - Exploring the evolution of the business model and the importance of mentoring * 0:12:24 - Introducing the CFO program and the role of mentors * 0:17:23 - Transitioning to experiential learning and the success of the XLF program * 0:23:35 - Discussing the key learnings and challenges faced over the past 5 years * 0:29:37 - Partnerships with tech companies and the transformation of the finance function * 0:35:28 - Future vision and objectives for the next 5 years * 0:39:30 - Closing remarks and a special offer for the community Find out more about GrowCFO

    33 min

  6. 28 JAN

    #218 Soft Skills Every Financial Leader Needs with Melanie Coeshott, GrowCFO Mentor

    #218 Soft Skills Every Financial Leader Needs with Melanie Coeshott https://open.spotify.com/episode/65A52E2nhXg7T5L4SPV1Q1 As the business landscape becomes increasingly complex, the ability to effectively communicate, manage people, and navigate interpersonal dynamics has become just as essential as technical financial expertise. Melanie Coeshott, a GrowCFO mentor, shares her insights and experiences in coaching and facilitating courses that help finance professionals develop these crucial soft skills. Melanie and Kevin Appleby explore the importance of experiential learning, where participants actively engage in role-playing, group discussions, and feedback sessions to hone their skills. They discuss the various courses Melanie facilitates, including emotional skills, interpersonal skills, people management, and delegation. Melanie emphasizes the need for finance professionals to continuously develop their soft skills, regardless of their career stage, as these capabilities can significantly impact their effectiveness as leaders and their ability to navigate the evolving business environment. The key highlights of this session include Melanie's personal journey from an accountant in the financial services industry to a career coach and facilitator, her insights on the role of mindset and limited beliefs in career development, and the practical strategies she employs to help her clients and workshop participants unlock their full potential. The discussion also delves into the nuances of active listening, the importance of empowering others through effective delegation, and the value of creating a safe and inclusive environment for learning and growth. Key topics covered: * Melanie's background as an accountant and her transition to a career coach and facilitator * The importance of soft skills for finance professionals, including emotional skills, interpersonal skills, people management, and delegation * The experiential learning approach used in Melanie's courses, emphasizing active engagement and feedback * Melanie's insights on addressing mindset and limited beliefs in career coaching * The role of motivational maps in understanding individual drivers and satisfaction levels * The overlap between one-on-one coaching and group workshops in developing soft skills * The relevance of soft skills courses for finance professionals at different career stages https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkPl3enoqso Links * Melanie Coeshott on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:00:34 - Introduction and initial greetings * 0:01:48 - Melanie's background and facilitation work with GrowCFO * 0:05:27 - Discussion of the various courses Melanie facilitates * 0:12:38 - The importance of soft skills for aspiring CF...

    29 min

  7. 21 JAN

    #217 The Blueprint for a High-Performing Finance Team with Damian Smith, GrowCFO Mentor

    #217 The Blueprint for a High-Performing Finance Team with Damian Smith https://open.spotify.com/episode/4bLrSTnZuprXVZcK4eSF4s Damian Smith, a GrowCFO Mentor, joins the Grow CFO Show to discuss the blueprint for building a high-performing finance team. In today's dynamic business landscape, the need for finance teams to operate at peak efficiency has never been more crucial. Effective finance teams not only drive financial success but also play a pivotal role in shaping the overall success of an organization.Damian, a seasoned finance professional turned leadership coach, shares his unique perspective on transforming dysfunctional finance teams into thriving, purpose-driven units. Drawing from his own experiences as a "recovering toxic CFO," Damian delves into the core principles of the Thrive methodology, a comprehensive approach to cultivating high-performing teams. He emphasizes the importance of trust as the foundation for building a cohesive and collaborative team, as well as the need to align team purpose, values, and goals to drive commitment and accountability.Throughout the discussion, Damian shares practical strategies for finance leaders to address the challenges of dysfunctional teams. He highlights the significance of fostering a culture of healthy conflict and open communication, where team members feel empowered to voice their perspectives and work towards the best possible outcomes. Additionally, Damian underscores the importance of embedding values and accountability into the recruitment and onboarding process to ensure a strong cultural fit and a shared commitment to the team's objectives. Key topics covered: * Damian's journey from a toxic CFO to a leadership coach and the lessons he learned along the way * The importance of trust as the foundation for building a high-performing team * Aligning team purpose, values, and goals to drive commitment and accountability * Fostering a culture of healthy conflict and open communication * Embedding values and accountability into the recruitment and onboarding process * Practical strategies for finance leaders to transform dysfunctional teams https://youtu.be/fmC7hZbVhhs Links * Damian Smith on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:00:50 - Introductions and initial chit-chat * 0:09:03 - Damian's background and journey from toxic CFO to leadership coach * 0:20:54 - The importance of trust in building high-performing teams * 0:27:08 - Aligning team purpose, values, and goals * 0:38:39 - The Thrive methodology and its key components * 0:48:31 - Advice for finance leaders with dysfunctional teams Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app.

    35 min

  8. 14 JAN

    #216 Navigating People and HR Challenges as a CFO with Gwenevere Crary, Founder and CEO, Guide to HR

    #216 Navigating People and HR Challenges as a CFO with Gwenevere Crary https://open.spotify.com/episode/31IPiTQcj3yVhQ2IvJnXVX As businesses grow, the people and HR challenges they face become increasingly complex. Founders and finance leaders often find themselves responsible for managing HR-related tasks, even without formal training or expertise in this area. In this episode, Gwenevere Crary, Founder and CEO of Guide to HR, shares her insights on how finance leaders can effectively navigate these challenges and build a strong HR foundation for their organizations. Crary emphasizes the importance of establishing robust onboarding processes to retain new hires and ensure a smooth ramp-up. She also discusses strategies for creating a learning and development culture, including providing a variety of training options and aligning with employee career goals. These proactive measures can help finance leaders support their teams and foster a positive work environment.Furthermore, Crary highlights the significance of recruiting with a focus on culture fit and values, especially in startup environments. She also addresses the challenges of transitioning from a founder-led to a professional leadership team and maintaining a strong company culture. By prioritizing these aspects, finance leaders can contribute to the overall success and sustainability of their organizations. Lastly, the discussion underscores the need for finance leaders to develop strategic thinking and planning skills to succeed in C-level roles. As they navigate the evolving landscape of their businesses, the ability to make informed decisions and align HR practices with the company's goals becomes increasingly crucial. By leveraging Crary's insights, finance leaders can enhance their capabilities and effectively manage the people-related aspects of their organizations. Key topics covered: * Importance of establishing robust onboarding processes to retain new hires and ensure a smooth ramp-up * Strategies for creating a learning and development culture, including providing a variety of training options and aligning with employee career goals * Significance of recruiting with a focus on culture fit and values, especially in startup environments * Challenges of transitioning from a founder-led to a professional leadership team and maintaining a strong company culture * Need for finance leaders to develop strategic thinking and planning skills to succeed in C-level roles https://youtu.be/lwnsjDNSi50 Links * Gwenevere Crary on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * [0:06] - Introductions and setting the agenda * [0:24] - Discussion on Grow CFO's product launch and experiential learning * [3:41] - Exploring partnership opportunities and fractional communities

    36 min
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5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Where Finance Leaders Grow Together

Information

  • Creator
    Kevin Appleby
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    223
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 GrowCFO Limited
  • Show Website
    GrowCFO Show

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