The FP&A Guy Network

Paul Barnhurst
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Welcome to the FP&A Guy Podcast Network – your one-stop destination for insightful conversations and expert perspectives at the forefront of finance, hosted by Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy. This network brings together three unique shows designed to inform, inspire, and equip finance professionals across the globe: • FP&A Tomorrow: Shaping the future of FP&A by exploring today’s trends and interviewing top global talent in the field. • Financial Modeler’s Corner: Master the art and science of financial modeling with insights from distinguished experts, in partnership with the Financial Modeling Institute. • Future Finance: Discover how technology and AI are transforming corporate finance in this forward-thinking podcast co-hosted with Glenn Hopper. No matter where you are in your finance journey, these podcasts deliver practical advice, thought leadership, and cutting-edge innovation to help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of finance.

  1. AI Governance for CFOs to Control Board Risk and Lead Strategic Transformation with Shannon Nash

    12 HR AGO

    AI Governance for CFOs to Control Board Risk and Lead Strategic Transformation with Shannon Nash

    In this episode of Future Finance, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Glenn Hopper and special guest Shannon Nash to explore how AI is transforming the role of finance leaders and boardrooms. The conversation dives into AI adoption, governance, and the shift from traditional finance responsibilities to more strategic, decision-driven roles. Shannon Nash is a global C-suite leader, CPA, attorney, and board director with over 30 years of experience across finance, technology, and governance. She is a Partner at Alpha AI, where she helps organizations strengthen AI governance and strategic decision-making. Shannon has served as CFO at companies like Wing, Reputation.com, and Inside Source, and currently sits on multiple boards, including SoFi Bank and NetScout Systems. In this episode, you will discover: Why finance professionals must continuously retool in the age of AIHow AI is changing the role of CFOs and decision-makingThe importance of AI governance at the board levelHow to manage AI investment alongside “AI sprawl.”What key questions boards should be asking about AI AI is rapidly evolving from a tool that supports workflows to one that actively drives decisions. As Shannon highlights, this shift requires stronger governance, better alignment between leadership and operations, and a proactive approach from both CFOs and boards. The future of finance will belong to those who can balance innovation with control and strategy with execution. Follow Shannon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonknash/ Podcast: https://www.noboxesjustverses.com/ Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii Follow Paul: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy Follow QFlow.AI: Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg 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: [02:37] – Shannon Nash Background [04:53] – Career Journey & Non-Linearity [09:00] – Finance Leaders & Operations Mindset [11:44] – AI & Alpha AI [17:47] – AI Across Companies [24:32] – AI Governance & Board Questions [31:31] – AI in Decision-Making [35:26] – Shannon’s Podcast [42:22] – AI Questions & Closing

    44 min
  2. AI Builds Obsession for Financial Modelers to Refocus on Specification Testing and Trust Now

    1 DAY AGO

    AI Builds Obsession for Financial Modelers to Refocus on Specification Testing and Trust Now

    In this episode of The ModSquad, Ian Bennett, Partner at PwC, joins Paul Barnhurst, Giles Male, and Ian Schnoor to discuss the rapid changes happening in financial modeling with the rise of AI. The team explores how AI tools like Claude are revolutionizing the industry, the critical role of strong modeling skills, and the ongoing importance of trust in financial modeling. They also touch on the future of Excel in the age of AI and how professionals can adapt to stay ahead in this rapidly changing landscape. Ian Bennett is a Partner at PwC, leading Deals Modeling in Australia and globally. With over 25 years of experience, Ian has built and reviewed complex models for transactions, infrastructure, finance transformations, and BAU forecasting across Australia and the UK. Ian is a founding member of the Financial Modeling Institute's (FMI) Advisory Council and a member of FMI's Financial Modeling Global Leaders Council. He is also the lead author of PwC’s Global Financial Modeling Guidelines. Expect to Learn How AI tools like Claude are reshaping the financial modeling process.The crucial role of human oversight and strong modeling skills, even with advanced AI.Why AI in financial modeling is seen as an augmentation tool rather than a replacement.How the role of financial modelers is evolving in the age of AI and automation.What the future holds for Excel, and how AI integration is transforming it. Here are a few quotes from the episode: “We all trade in trust. Whether you use AI or not, it’s your name behind it. That’s the most valuable thing in our profession.” - Ian Bennett“Financial modeling is so much more than just building a calculator in a spreadsheet. It’s a profession, it’s a discipline, it’s a career.” - Ian Bennett Claude and other AI tools are significantly enhancing the way financial modeling is done, but as Ian Bennett highlights, trust and deep foundational knowledge remain critical. The future of financial modeling isn’t about AI replacing human modelers; it’s about how professionals can use AI to work smarter, faster, and more accurately. Follow Ian: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/ Follow Giles: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/ Follow Ian Bennett: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianrbennett/ Website - https://www.pwc.com.au/deals/modelling.html In today’s episode: [02:10] – Introducing Ian Bennett [07:00] – Testing Claude in Excel [10:10] – Focusing Beyond the Build Phase [14:00] – How AI is Enhancing Modeling Phases [17:30] – The Importance of Reviewing AI-Generated Models [19:45] – Trusting AI: Augmentation vs. Replacement [25:00] – Rethinking the Role of Financial Modelers [30:00] – The Future of Excel and AI Agent Mode [33:00] – Reinventing the Financial Modeling Profession [36:00] – The Future of Excel in the AI Era [39:30] – Final Thoughts

    43 min
  3. How CFOs Are Using the Return on Change to Fix Failing Projects and Rethink ROI with Vincent & Ilana

    6 DAYS AGO

    How CFOs Are Using the Return on Change to Fix Failing Projects and Rethink ROI with Vincent & Ilana

    In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst is joined by Vincent Messina and Ilana Esterrich to discuss how organizations should approach ROI and transformation. They dive into why traditional ROI methods often fail, the concept of Return on Change, and how financial leaders can better manage software implementations and drive business outcomes. Vincent is a seasoned enterprise software sales leader with over 25 years of experience. Vincent is currently the Northeast Director of business development at UHY, a CPA firm, and works on advising CFOs through his partnership with UHY. Ilana is the Chief Financial Officer at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, where she oversees a comprehensive portfolio, including accounting, treasury, compliance, and financial planning. Expect to Learn: Why ROI calculations often fail and how Return on Change provides a more effective approach.How to align financial decisions with business outcomes.The evolving role of FP&A professionals in driving decisions beyond traditional reporting.Key strategies for managing change during financial transformations. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “The real value comes when technology enables people to do different, more impactful work.” - Vincent Messina“As CFOs, our job is to help guide the organization by providing the right insights for informed decision-making.” - Ilana Esterrich Vincent Messina and Ilana Esterrich emphasize the importance of shifting from traditional ROI to Return on Change in financial transformations. They highlight the crucial role of FP&A professionals in driving strategic decisions and managing change effectively. Campfire: AI-First ERP: Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation, close management, and more, all in one unified platform. Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy Follow Vincent: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vmessina/ Company: https://uhy-us.com/ Follow Ilana : LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Ilanaesterrich/ Website: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/ 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 [02:30] – Introducing Vincent Messina [02:55] – Introducing Ilana Esterrich [05:00] – What Great FP&A Looks Like [08:00] – Why ROI Fails in Transformations [13:00] – Shifting from ROI to Return on Change [19:00] – The Importance of Consensus in Transformation [25:00] – Business Outcomes vs. Software Decisions [30:00] – How to Make Change Work [35:00] – Mindset Shifts in CFOs and FP&A [40:00] – Final Thoughts

    55 min
  4. How Augmented Intelligence Will Replace AI Hype in Finance with John Thomas

    18 MAR

    How Augmented Intelligence Will Replace AI Hype in Finance with John Thomas

    In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Glenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst are joined by John Thomas Foxworthy, the founder and CEO of the Global Institute of Data Science (GIDS). John discusses the role of augmented intelligence in the future of AI, particularly in finance, and shares his insights from his book The Augmented Intelligence Revolution: How Leaders Win in the AI Century. John Thomas is the Founder and CEO of the Global Institute of Data Science (GIDS), a consulting and professional development organization focused on helping organizations successfully implement AI and data science initiatives. He serves as a Fractional Chief AI Officer for Fortune 500 companies and teaches AI and machine learning courses at Caltech CTME and UC San Diego Extended Studies. In this episode, you will discover: The role of augmented intelligence in financeHow GIDS helps companies implement AIOvercoming AI adoption challenges and cognitive biasesThe evolution of machine learning and AI terminologyHow AI enhances decision-making and operations in finance John highlights how the rapid evolution of AI can create challenges in its adoption, especially within complex industries like finance. The Global Institute of Data Science addresses these issues by focusing on feasibility studies, AI strategy, and tackling cognitive biases, ensuring the successful integration of AI in business operations. Follow John: GIDS: https://gidsco.substack.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-thomas-foxworthy-m-s-data-science-1718073/ Future Alpha Event: https://www.alphaevents.com/events-futurealphaglobal/agenda-page/filter?_gl=1*1j0347f*[…]ovIhoCWOYQAvD_BwE&gbraid=0AAAAAomEzrlLzh-epjUJjbfXNnASlChga Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii Follow Paul: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy Follow QFlow.AI: Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg 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: [01:50] – John’s Background and Expertise [03:11] – The Augmented Intelligence Revolution [05:40] – Machine Learning vs. Augmented Intelligence [08:45] – The Global Institute of Data Science [11:04] – Feasibility Studies in AI Projects [15:17] – Managing AI Expectations [17:18] – Closing Thoughts and Book Release

    18 min
  5. How Microsoft is Making Excel an AI-Powered Platform with Product Manager Brian Jones

    17 MAR

    How Microsoft is Making Excel an AI-Powered Platform with Product Manager Brian Jones

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Brian Jones, Vice-President: Microsoft Excel, Forms, Office Platforms, to discuss how Excel is evolving in the era of AI and large language models. They explore how Copilot, agent mode, and AI-driven features are reshaping how professionals build, analyse, and improve spreadsheets. Brian also shares insights into how AI can assist financial modelers, automate tedious spreadsheet tasks, and help users understand complex workbooks faster. Brian Jones is the Vice-President: Microsoft Excel, Forms. He has worked at Microsoft since 1999 across several productivity platforms, including Word, Office Forms, and developer extensibility tools. In his current role, Brian leads the Excel product team as they integrate AI capabilities like Copilot and agent mode to expand what users can accomplish inside spreadsheets. Expect to Learn How AI and Copilot are changing the Excel user experienceWhat “agent mode” means for automating spreadsheet tasksHow AI can help analyse and improve financial modelsWhy Excel still requires strong modeling and formula knowledgeHow skill sheets and templates can guide AI inside workbooks Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Excel really is like a developer tool. When you're writing formulas, you're essentially coding.” – Brian Jones“One of the strengths of Excel is that the work is visible. You can see the formulas, the logic, and how the result was produced.” – Brian Jones Brian explains how AI is transforming Excel from a traditional spreadsheet tool into a more collaborative environment where users can interact with their data through conversation. Copilot can analyse spreadsheets, suggest formulas, correct errors, and even rebuild broken references automatically. Follow Brian: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brijones/ Website: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/archive/blogs/brian_jones/ Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn Page- 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 receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [02:53] – Brian’s Background at Microsoft [03:09] – Returning to the Excel Team [04:24] – The Rise of AI and LLMs in Excel [07:08] – Customer Questions About Copilot [10:39] – AI Rollouts and Product Updates [12:03] – How modelers Are Using Excel AI [17:52] – What Skill Sheets Are and Why They Matter [23:07] – Power Query and Excel Programming Languages [30:51] – Do We Still Need to Learn Formulas [36:07] – Getting the Most Out of Copilot [38:40] – Favorite Excel Shortcut and Functions [41:31] – Where to Follow Brian

    43 min
  6. The Marketing Attribution Strategy for FP&A Teams to Take Control of Marketing ROI with Jeff Greenfield

    12 MAR

    The Marketing Attribution Strategy for FP&A Teams to Take Control of Marketing ROI with Jeff Greenfield

    In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Jeff Greenfield, an entrepreneur, advisor, and founder of Provalytics, a leading attribution and measurement solution. Jeff discusses marketing attribution, the challenges marketers face in proving the impact of their campaigns, and the evolving role of FP&A in understanding marketing spend. He shares his entrepreneurial journey, from building an SEO platform to leading Provalytics in providing marketers with a single source of truth for their efforts. Jeff Greenfield is the co-founder and CEO of Provalytics, a "cookie-less" attribution solution that helps marketers demonstrate the value of upper-funnel channels like CTV, podcasting, and more. Before founding Provalytics, Jeff built and led multiple digital marketing companies, pioneering the use of data-driven approaches to improve marketing performance. Expect to Learn: The challenges marketers face in proving campaign ROI and how to overcome themWhy FP&A professionals should understand marketing’s data modelsHow marketers and finance teams can align on data-driven goalsHow to ensure marketing budgets are being spent effectively Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “A great FP&A relationship is when marketing can demonstrate that their efforts are working and walk away with the budget they need.” – Jeff Greenfield“It’s important to understand that marketing is not just about clicks, it’s about capturing attention.” – Jeff Greenfield Jeff Greenfield shared valuable insights on the challenges of marketing attribution and how finance teams can collaborate with marketing to ensure efficient budget allocation. He emphasized the importance of understanding marketing data and aligning on a common measurement framework for better decision-making. Campfire: AI-First ERP: Campfire is the AI-first ERP that powers next-gen finance and accounting teams. With integrated solutions for the general ledger, revenue automation, close management, and more, all in one unified platform. Explore Campfire today: https://campfire.ai/?utm_source=fpaguy_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=100225_fpaguy Follow Jeff: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffgreenfield/ Company: https://provalytics.com/ Earn Your CPE Credit For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. In Today’s Episode [02:40] – Jeff’s Background [03:33] – What Does Great FP&A Look Like? [08:21] – Measuring Revenue from Podcasts [11:25] – From Chiropractic to Marketing [15:10] – Founding Provalytics: Marketing Attribution [18:48] – The Google Tax in Attribution [29:46] – Why Google Isn't Enough Anymore [37:49] – AI and Podcast ROI [41:07] – Top Technical Skill for FP&A [48:00] – Last Questions & Final thought

    49 min
  7. How Finance Leaders Can Stop AI Failure and Adopt Augmented Intelligence with John Thomas

    11 MAR

    How Finance Leaders Can Stop AI Failure and Adopt Augmented Intelligence with John Thomas

    In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper explore how leaders can cut through the hype around artificial intelligence and focus on real-world impact. The conversation dives into why so many AI initiatives fail, how cognitive biases affect AI adoption, and why finance professionals must learn to ask better questions before deploying models. John Thomas is the Founder and CEO of the Global Institute of Data Science (GIDS), a consulting and professional development organization focused on helping organizations successfully implement AI and data science initiatives. He serves as a Fractional Chief AI Officer for Fortune 500 companies and teaches AI and machine learning courses at Caltech CTME and UC San Diego Extended Studies. In this episode, you will discover: Why 85% of AI projects fail and how to avoid The difference between AI hype and real implementationHow augmented intelligence improves human decision-makingWhy asking the right questions about AI models matters mostHow AI can help with risk analysis and financial decision-making This episode highlights that successful AI adoption is not about chasing the latest technology trends but about asking better questions, understanding assumptions, and focusing on real business problems. As AI continues to evolve, finance leaders who combine human judgment with intelligent systems will be best positioned to turn AI from hype into measurable results. Follow John: GIDS: https://gidsco.substack.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-thomas-foxworthy-m-s-data-science-1718073/ Future Alpha Event: https://www.alphaevents.com/events-futurealphaglobal/agenda-page/filter?_gl=1*1j0347f*[…]ovIhoCWOYQAvD_BwE&gbraid=0AAAAAomEzrlLzh-epjUJjbfXNnASlChga Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii Follow Paul: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy Follow QFlow.AI: Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg 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: [03:05] – Meet John Thomas [04:11] – Augmented intelligence explained [11:21] – Global Institute of Data Science [15:18] – Why AI projects fail [21:29] – Understanding AI models [24:45] – AI in portfolio risk analysis [30:16] – Best advice for finance leaders [32:15] – Rapid-fire questions & wrap-up

    39 min
  8. Tips For Aligning the Forecasting Process between Finance and Operations with Amber Johnson

    10 MAR

    Tips For Aligning the Forecasting Process between Finance and Operations with Amber Johnson

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Amber Johnson to discuss forecasting, financial modeling, and how operational decisions impact financial outcomes. They explore the connection between logistics forecasting and financial forecasting, the importance of tracking forecast accuracy and bias, and how small operational issues can create large financial impacts. Amber also shares lessons from her experience working with data, forecasting demand, and helping businesses improve their systems and decision-making. Amber Johnson is a fractional industrial engineer and the founder of Peachy Profitability, where she helps teams work smarter through process improvement, data storytelling, and automation. She began her career as a “beer psychic,” forecasting demand at Anheuser-Busch, and has since built logistics networks, optimized warehouse flows, and guided businesses through transformational change. Amber is also the creator of Office Hours with Amber, a weekly livestream that encourages continuous improvement with curiosity and confidence. Expect to Learn How logistics forecasting connects to financial forecastingWhy forecast accuracy and bias matter in decision-makingHow operational drivers influence financial resultsWays finance, sales, and logistics teams can align betterHow Excel and data analysis support forecasting and planning Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Sometimes the smallest operational issue becomes the biggest financial problem later.” – Amber Johnson“Good forecasting isn’t about being perfect, it’s about learning and adjusting.” – Amber Johnson Amber Johnson shared practical insights on forecasting, operational drivers, and financial modeling. She highlighted how understanding logistics and operational data can improve financial decisions and help businesses plan more effectively. Follow Amber: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ambernjohnsonwmu/ Website: https://peachyprofitability.com/ Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn Page - 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 receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. In today’s episode: [02:23] – Amber’s Background [08:21] – Founding Peachy Profitability [10:38] – Learning Excel and Forecasting [15:37] – Logistics vs Financial Forecasting [18:59] – Forecast Accuracy and Bias [23:59] – Finance vs Logistics Perspectives [31:41] – Aligning Teams Around Goals [36:07] – Favourite Excel Shortcuts [37:46] – Rapid Fire: modeling Opinions [44:39] – Where to Find Amber

    47 min
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About

Welcome to the FP&A Guy Podcast Network – your one-stop destination for insightful conversations and expert perspectives at the forefront of finance, hosted by Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy. This network brings together three unique shows designed to inform, inspire, and equip finance professionals across the globe: • FP&A Tomorrow: Shaping the future of FP&A by exploring today’s trends and interviewing top global talent in the field. • Financial Modeler’s Corner: Master the art and science of financial modeling with insights from distinguished experts, in partnership with the Financial Modeling Institute. • Future Finance: Discover how technology and AI are transforming corporate finance in this forward-thinking podcast co-hosted with Glenn Hopper. No matter where you are in your finance journey, these podcasts deliver practical advice, thought leadership, and cutting-edge innovation to help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of finance.

Information

  • Creator
    Paul Barnhurst
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    317
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Paul Barnhurst
  • Show Website
    The FP&A Guy Network

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