FP&A Unlocked

Paul Barnhurst
  • 5.0 (27)
  • Management
  • Updated Weekly

FP&A Unlocked is where Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, discusses how FP&A can unlock your seat at the boardroom, and what it takes.

  1. How AI is Being Used to Make Better Decisions and Build Faster Models with Nicholas Moen

    6d ago

    How AI is Being Used to Make Better Decisions and Build Faster Models with Nicholas Moen

    In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Nicholas Moen, CMA and Director of Finance at Section, an AI software company. Nicholas shares insights on leveraging AI in FP&A to streamline financial modeling, automate workflows, improve decision-making, and build high-performing teams. He discusses practical strategies for training finance teams, balancing human oversight with AI automation, and applying FP&A insights to drive operational impact in enterprise organizations. Nicholas Moen is a CMA and finance leader at Section, where he reinvents finance through AI, helping organizations build AI-powered workflows at scale. Based in Franklin, Pennsylvania, Nicholas specializes in leveraging AI to streamline FP&A processes, automate workflows, and empower finance teams to focus on strategic decision-making. Expect to Learn: How AI frees FP&A teams from manual workAutomating reports, spreadsheets, and workflowsTraining and empowering teams on AI toolsKey FP&A skills: business partnering, listening, and data understanding Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: "Context is everything. Using AI to capture meeting insights and key assumptions helps teams make smarter, faster decisions." - Nicholas Moen"A strong FP&A professional understands both data structures and business partnering, skills that AI cannot replace." - Nicholas Moen Nicholas Moen demonstrates how AI is reshaping the role of FP&A, allowing teams to focus on strategic decision-making instead of manual tasks. By leveraging tools like Claude and Lovable, finance professionals can automate workflows, build models faster, and make more informed business decisions. Follow Nicholas: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-moen-320a11106/ Substack: https://substack.com/@runningfinance 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[02:56] – What great FP&A looks like today [05:14] – Automating spreadsheets with Claude [14:31] – Building micro-apps with Lovable [17:58] – Commission automation [21:26] – Doing analysis on the go [30:12] – Low-hanging AI wins for FP&A [33:58] – Training and knowledge sharing [38:41] – Top soft and technical skills [41:35] – Personal side: music and hobbies [45:53] – How to connect with Nicholas

    47 min
  2. Developing Business Acumen necessary to become a strategic business partner with Robert Blanding

    Jun 11

    Developing Business Acumen necessary to become a strategic business partner with Robert Blanding

    In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Robert Blanding, an experienced finance and operations leader in the ag-tech sector. Robert shares insights on building high-performing FP&A teams, partnering effectively with accounting, developing financial acumen, and applying strategic finance to drive operational impact in global businesses. Robert Blanding is the Chief Financial Officer at Fall Creek, a global leader in the Ag-Tech sector. He brings extensive experience in finance and operations from 18 years at Intel and leadership roles across industrial manufacturing, technology, and ag-tech companies. Robert combines strategic financial leadership with a focus on innovation, long-term business growth, and developing high-performing teams. Expect to Learn: What great FP&A looks like and the importance of business acumenHow to develop strong partnerships between FP&A and accountingStrategies for building high-performing, empowered finance teamsNavigating systems, processes, and technology challenges in FP&A Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: "It starts with being connected to the business, having strong acumen, and being consulted by stakeholders." – Robert Blanding"Investing in relationships outside of crisis is critical to getting support from accounting and operations." – Robert Blanding Robert shares practical insights for FP&A professionals and aspiring CFOs, emphasizing the importance of business acumen, strong partnerships with accounting, creative problem-solving, and developing high-performing teams. Follow Robert: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfb19/ Company Website: https://www.fallcreeknursery.com/ 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 [03:55] – Defining Great FP&A [07:39] – Career Path & First CFO Role [17:49] – Fall Creek & Ag-Tech Overview [21:18] – Importance of FP&A & Accounting Partnership [32:23] – Creative Problem Solving & Process Improvement [38:59] – Challenges in Building High-Performing Teams [45:32] – Advice for Aspiring CFOs [49:11] – Top Technical Skill for FP&A Professionals [52:50] – Personal Interests & Basketball [56:12] – How to Connect with Robert

    56 min
  3. Stop Doing Monthly Reports for Analysts to Automate Finance Workflows Using AI with David Dors

    Jun 4

    Stop Doing Monthly Reports for Analysts to Automate Finance Workflows Using AI with David Dors

    In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst sits down with David Dors to explore how artificial intelligence, particularly Claude, is transforming the future of FP&A. David shares his journey from banking and FP&A into finance transformation, where he now helps finance teams implement AI-powered workflows, automate repetitive processes, and rethink how work gets done in the Office of the CFO. David Dors is a finance transformation consultant and AI educator specializing in helping finance teams adopt Claude, AI agents, and workflow automation. After beginning his career in banking and FP&A, David shifted his focus to helping finance professionals use AI to improve reporting, analysis, forecasting, and decision-making. Through workshops, training programs, and content creation, he teaches finance teams how to build AI-powered systems that save time and allow analysts to focus on higher-value strategic work. Expect to Learn: How AI is changing the future of FP&APractical ways to automate reporting and recurring finance tasksThe difference between Claude Chat, Claude Code, and AI agentsWhy finance professionals should think of AI as a digital teammateKey skills FP&A professionals need in an AI-driven world Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: "Every forecast, variance analysis, or deck you build should help somebody make a different decision." – David Dors"If nothing changed from the analysis you're providing, there's not much value in what you're doing every day." – David Dors David explains how finance teams can use AI to eliminate repetitive work, improve efficiency, and spend more time supporting business decisions. He also shares his perspective on the future of FP&A, where professionals will increasingly manage AI agents that handle routine tasks and reporting. non-traditional organizations. Follow Dave: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daviddors/ Website: https://vantagepointconsulting.com/ 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[04:13] – Discovering Claude[10:27] – AI Training for Finance Teams[15:19] – Skills & AI Agents[18:13] – AI Productivity Gains[22:23] – Quick AI Wins in FP&A[25:23] – AI Accuracy & Validation[28:29] – Automating Reporting[32:35] – The Future of FP&A[39:01] – Excel Lessons Learned[42:57] – Final Thoughts

    45 min
  4. FP&A Strategy for Finance Leaders to Scale a Sports Business Like a Startup with Tim Naddy

    May 28

    FP&A Strategy for Finance Leaders to Scale a Sports Business Like a Startup with Tim Naddy

    In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Snyder sit down with Dr. Tim Naddy, CFO of the Savannah Bananas, to discuss the unique world of finance in a sports and entertainment organization. Tim shares how he manages FP&A for a fast-growing, multi-team baseball league, balancing operational efficiency with fan engagement, budgeting for multiple teams, and ensuring the internal finance function supports the entire organization’s growth. Tim is the CFO of the Savannah Bananas, a wildly innovative and entertaining baseball organization. With experience in public accounting, higher education, and consulting, Tim brings a unique perspective on financial management, teaching, and operational strategy. He has also authored a book for creatives and non-finance professionals on strategic financial management, helping others understand how to transform ideas into sustainable business ventures. Expect to Learn: How FP&A functions in an unconventional sports and entertainment organizationBudgeting and financial planning across multiple teams and eventsManaging risk, contracts, and operational logistics for traveling eventsLessons on aligning finance with organizational growth and fan engagementHow innovative business models and creativity intersect with FP&A Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “Finance isn’t a stumbling block, it’s a support function that ensures internal teams can succeed.” – Dr. Tim Naddy“You don’t need to be from an area to support a team, you just need to feel the vibe.” – Dr. Tim Naddy Dr. Tim Naddy provides a behind-the-scenes look at managing FP&A for the Savannah Bananas, balancing operational efficiency with creative fan engagement. He highlights how finance supports growth across multiple teams and events, ensuring budgets, logistics, and resources are aligned. Listeners gain insights into innovative financial management, practical FP&A strategies, and the importance of adaptability in dynamic, non-traditional organizations. Follow Tim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtimnaddy221b/ Website: https://www.houndtalint.com/ 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] – Bananas Brand Story [08:12] – Teaching & Book [11:14] – CFO Misconceptions [13:14] – FP&A Process & League [18:12] – Revenue & Ticketing [26:00] – Logistics & Operations [32:28] – Team Management [46:51] – Banana Ball Rules [54:42] – FP&A Advice & Closing

    58 min
  5. The Future of FP&A with AI for Finance Professionals to Move Beyond Excel Analysis with Derek Baker

    May 21

    The Future of FP&A with AI for Finance Professionals to Move Beyond Excel Analysis with Derek Baker

    In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst chats with Derek Baker, the Head of Strategic Finance at Circle, a growth-stage SaaS company. Derek shares insights from his experience in building strategic finance functions, scaling finance teams, and using AI to optimize financial reporting. Derek Baker is the Head of Strategic Finance at Circle, a growth-stage SaaS company focused on building an all-in-one platform for online communities. He has built the Strategic Finance function from the ground up, covering areas like pricing, sales compensation, investor due diligence, and AI-powered financial reporting. Prior to Circle, Derek co-founded The FP&A Hub with Paul Barnhurst and Liran Edelist to support finance professionals. His career spans FP&A roles across SaaS, marketplace, and biotech startups. Expect to Learn: How AI is transforming financial reporting and analysis in FP&A.The role of business partnering in aligning FP&A with strategic decisions.Derek's transition from spreadsheets to AI-driven financial models.How FP&A evolves as companies scale. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “Spreadsheets are great for MVP models, but AI and data warehouses are the future for repeatable, scalable analysis.” – Derek Baker“AI can manage context better than prompts, and this is what drives its power in finance.” – Derek Baker Derek shares that the future of FP&A is all about embracing technology and innovation. He emphasizes that it's no longer just about spreadsheets and traditional methods; it’s about leveraging AI and data to drive smarter financial decisions. By focusing on both the strategic and technical sides of finance, professionals can better align with business goals and create more impactful outcomes. Follow Derek: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-d-baker/ Website: https://community.thefpahub.com/home 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 & Derek’s Background [06:00] – What Does Great FP&A Look Like? [12:00] – Scaling Finance Functions in Startups [17:00] – The Role of AI in FP&A [22:00] – Building an AI-Powered Financial Reporting System [28:00] – Why Data Architecture is Key to AI Success [33:00] – The Future of Financial Modeling with AI [40:00] – Automating Monthly Finance Reports Using AI [45:00] – Data Integration and Financial Modeling for Future Growth [50:00] – Insights on Scaling FP&A Teams in Tech Startups [53:00] – Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways

    58 min
  6. Your Data Won't Convince Anyone. Do This Instead. | Gabrielle Dolan on FP&A Storytelling

    May 14

    Your Data Won't Convince Anyone. Do This Instead. | Gabrielle Dolan on FP&A Storytelling

    FP&A & AI Software Showcase: Explore Leading Tools FP&A leaders are embracing AI, and we’re here to help. On May 21st, I’ll host the FP&A & AI Software Showcase, featuring FP&A planning and AI tools like Concourse, Sapien, Drivetrain, and Una AI. Join us for live demos, insights, and no sales pressure. Register today: www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-software-showcase In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Gabrielle Dolan, a global expert in strategic storytelling, about the power of storytelling in business and how it can transform communication. Gabrielle shares her journey from senior leadership at the National Australia Bank to becoming a bestselling author and storytelling expert. She discusses how storytelling helps finance professionals influence decisions, engage teams, and communicate complex messages effectively. Gabrielle Dolan is a global expert in strategic storytelling and communication, having worked with leaders from companies like Amazon, EY, Uber, and the Obama Foundation. With over 20 years of experience in leadership roles and storytelling, Gabrielle is the bestselling author of eight books, including her latest Story Intelligence: The Craft of Authentic Storytelling Made Smarter with AI. She is also the co-host of the podcast Keeping It Real with Jack and Ral, which ranks in Spotify's top 3% most shared podcasts. Expect to Learn:Why storytelling is essential for influencing decisions in finance and business.The impact of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership communication.How AI can enhance storytelling without losing its human touch.Practical tips for finance professionals on how to use stories in presentations. Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “Storytelling is not about manipulation, it’s about authentic communication.” – Gabrielle Dolan“AI can be your creative partner, but don’t lose your voice when telling your story.” – Gabrielle Dolan Gabrielle Dolan shared her invaluable insights on the power of storytelling in business, especially for finance professionals. She highlighted how storytelling is a vital tool for influencing decisions, building connections, and making complex messages more memorable. Gabrielle emphasized the importance of authenticity in storytelling and explained how AI can enhance the storytelling process without losing the human connection Follow Gabrielle: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielledolan/ Podcast Link - https://podfollow.com/keeping-it-real-with-jac-and-ral YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@KeepingItRealwithJacandRal 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 [03:18] – Gabrielle's Leadership to Storytelling Journey [06:00] – Challenges in Transitioning to Storytelling [10:00] – Storytelling's Role in Business Decisions [13:37] – Why Data Alone Won't Drive Action [17:44] – Finding the Right Story for Your Message [22:10] – Storytelling and Data in Finance [30:14] – The Power of Story Intelligence in Leadership [35:09] – AI's Role in Enhancing Storytelling [40:15] – Rapid Fire Questions [43:00] – Conclusion & Key Takeaways

    1h 3m
  7. How FP&A Teams Can Improve Decision-Making with Scenario Planning & Financial Models - Michael

    May 7

    How FP&A Teams Can Improve Decision-Making with Scenario Planning & Financial Models - Michael

    FP&A & AI Software Showcase: Explore Leading Tools FP&A leaders are embracing AI, and we’re here to help. On May 21st, I’ll host the FP&A & AI Software Showcase, featuring FP&A planning and AI tools like Concourse, Sapien, Drivetrain, and Una AI. Join us for live demos, insights, and no sales pressure. Register today: www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-software-showcase In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Michael Gould, a technology entrepreneur and founder of Kaleidoscope, about his extensive experience in financial planning and modelling. Michael shares insights from his 40+ years in the industry, including his work with Anaplan, and discusses how modern finance teams can break free from the limitations of spreadsheets and legacy systems. Michael Gould is a technology entrepreneur and software engineer with over 40 years of experience in financial planning and modeling systems. After studying Mathematics and Computation at the University of Oxford, Michael co-created Adaytum, a leading business planning platform, and later founded Anaplan, a globally successful enterprise planning platform that became a British tech unicorn. Today, he is the founder of Kaleidoscope, focusing on rethinking financial modeling for modern teams and continuing to pioneer innovations that drive better decision-making in business. . Expect to Learn: The challenges and complexities of modern financial modellingHow Kaleidoscope is helping businesses move beyond spreadsheetsMichael's journey from IBM to Anaplan and now KaleidoscopeThe importance of understanding business processes in financial modellingHow AI is impacting the financial modeling landscape Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “The key to financial modeling is representing the complexity of a business without over-simplifying it.” – Michael Gould“AI is a powerful tool, but it’s the data context that drives the real value.” – Michael Gould Glenn explains that career growth in FP&A is no longer about following a fixed path or relying on credentials. It comes from building relationships, gaining real experience, and understanding how the business works. He also highlights that strong professionals go beyond numbers by connecting financial results to real business drivers and supporting better decisions. Follow Michael: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/migould/ Website: https://www.kaleidoscope.com/?utm_source=partner_fpandaguys&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=interview 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 [06:00] – Challenges of Multi-Dimensional Modelling [12:00] – Transitioning to Anaplan [15:00] – Kaleidoscope’s Mission to Help Small Businesses [21:00] – The Role of AI in Financial Modelling [27:00] – The Future of Financial Modelling [33:00] – Key Learnings from the Entrepreneurial Journey [39:00] – How AI is Changing Financial Decision-Making [45:00] – Overcoming the Data Challenges in Finance [51:00] – Final Thoughts on Innovation and Future Trends in Finance [57:00] – Conclusion and Key Takeaways

    1h 4m
  8. FP&A Career Advice and the Current State of FP&A with Glenn and Paul

    Apr 30

    FP&A Career Advice and the Current State of FP&A with Glenn and Paul

    FP&A & AI Software Showcase: Explore Leading Tools FP&A leaders are embracing AI, and we’re here to help. On May 21st, I’ll host the FP&A & AI Software Showcase, featuring FP&A planning and AI tools like Concourse, Sapien, Drivetrain, and Una AI. Join us for live demos, insights, and no sales pressure. Register today: www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-software-showcase In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Glenn Snyder about the current state of FP&A, focusing on career growth, hiring challenges, and how the role continues to evolve. Glenn shares his perspective on why networking matters more than ever in today’s job market, how professionals can stand out without relying only on certifications, and what it really takes to move up in FP&A. They also discuss the shift toward strategic partnership, the importance of understanding business drivers, and how leadership and empathy shape long-term success Expect to Learn: Why networking is the most effective way to find opportunitiesHow to stand out in a competitive job marketThe shift of FP&A from reporting to strategic partnershipWhy understanding business drivers is critical in FP&A Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: "If you can't figure out how to get other people to move with you, your career is not going to go anywhere." — Glenn Snyder“Leadership isn’t about telling people what to do, it’s about getting them to follow you.” – Glenn Snyder Glenn explains that career growth in FP&A is no longer about following a fixed path or relying on credentials. It comes from building relationships, gaining real experience, and understanding how the business works. He also highlights that strong professionals go beyond numbers by connecting financial results to real business drivers and supporting better decisions. Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder/ Website: https://www.riveron.com 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 [02:29] – FP&A Education Gap [06:34] – Certifications vs Experience [09:56] – Networking for Jobs [11:22] – Building Personal Brand [12:16] – Volunteering & Experience [17:45] – FP&A as Strategic Partner [22:19] – Finance & Business Roles [24:03] – Empathy in Leadership [29:46] – Career Growth Strategy [33:14] – Leadership vs Execution [38:12] – Drivers & Scenario Planning [44:50] – People Management Lessons [52:44] – Ethics & Transparency

    58 min
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5
out of 5
27 Ratings

About

FP&A Unlocked is where Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, discusses how FP&A can unlock your seat at the boardroom, and what it takes.

Information

  • Creator
    Paul Barnhurst
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    120
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Paul Barnhurst
  • Show Website
    FP&A Unlocked

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