The Diary of a CFO

Wassia Kamon, CPA, CMA, MBA
  • 5.0 (11)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Whether you’re a current CFO, on the path to the role, or part of a finance team, this podcast is for you. The Diary of a CFO podcast takes you behind the scenes of modern finance leadership through honest conversations about how real finance leaders build their careers, make tough decisions, and navigate the weight of the CFO role. Hosted by award‑winning CFO Wassia Kamon, each episode gives you practical insight into how today’s best finance leaders: Build high‑performing finance and FP&A teams.Partner with CEOs, boards, and capital providers (banks, PE/VC, and impact lenders).Navigate growth, regulation, and transformation without burning out.​ Whether you’re a current CFO, a senior finance leader, or a someone who wants a stronger handle on the numbers, you’ll walk away with tactics you can use and stories that make you feel less alone on your journey. To suggest topics, email ask@thediaryofacfo.com. To become a guest or sponsor of the show, visit thediaryofacfo.com.​

  1. Building an AI-Ready Finance Team Without Losing the Human Side, with Tariq Munir

    4D AGO

    Building an AI-Ready Finance Team Without Losing the Human Side, with Tariq Munir

    In this episode of The Diary of a CFO Podcast, host Wassia Kamon sits down with Tariq Munir, digital transformation advisor and author of Reimagine Finance, to explore what it actually takes to build an AI-ready finance team. Tariq shares why the biggest barriers to AI adoption are behavioral, not technological. He explains how to identify whether a team is truly data-driven, why streamlining workflows must come before automation, and how CFOs can create a culture of thoughtful experimentation without compromising accuracy or compliance. They also discuss the emerging skills finance leaders need, including change management, emotional intelligence, and responsible AI governance. This episode offers clarity for CFOs and senior finance leaders navigating transformation, complexity, and the evolving expectations of the role. Key Takeaways AI Readiness Starts with Trust in DataProcess Optimization Comes FirstExperimentation Requires BoundariesGrowing a Digital Mindset Across Teams is Essential Key Timestamps 00:00:00 Welcome 01:22:00 The one litmus test that shows if your team is AI-ready 04:07:00 What broken workflows look like and why AI makes them worse 09:03:00 Earning the right to experiment in finance 13:00:00 Why most AI projects fail to deliver value 20:06:00 How to build a digital mindset across your team 24:14:00 The skills future CFOs need to develop now 25:40:00 Why CFOs are positioned to lead responsible and ethical AI 👉 If becoming a CFO is in your 5-year plan, get your free CFO Readiness Scorecard here: http://thecfo.scoreapp.com 📬 Get Involved Have a question or topic suggestion? Email: Ask@thediaryofacfo.com Visit: https://www.thediaryofacfo.com 🔗 Connect with Guest Tariq Munir: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tariq-munir/ 🔗 Connect with Host Wassia Kamon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/

    50 min
  2. The First‑Time CFO Playbook: The First 90 Days, Imposter Syndrome and Leading the Business

    JAN 30

    The First‑Time CFO Playbook: The First 90 Days, Imposter Syndrome and Leading the Business

    Stepping into your first CFO role can feel overwhelming. In this episode, former divisional CFO and GrowCFO Mentor Kevin Appleby shares what really changes when you move from finance leader to CFO. Drawing on years of experience working with finance leaders across industries, Kevin shares why many CFOs feel unprepared when they step into the role and how the real work begins after the reporting is done. The conversation examines how CFOs add value through judgment, questioning, and forward-looking insight, especially when the path forward is unclear. This episode is for CFOs, aspiring CFOs, and senior finance leaders who want clarity on what actually matters in the seat and how to grow into the role without trying to be everything to everyone. Key Timestamps 00:02 Intro 02:18 What separates good finance teams from great ones 05:48 Asking better questions to drive real insight 09:28 Developing business partnering skills through responsibility 12:42 Why CFOs must shift from backward-looking to forward-looking work 18:34 Imposter syndrome and confidence in new CFOs 24:56 Choosing which CFO skills matter most 37:56 The importance of FP&A and delivering bad news early 41:14 Why risk management sits with the CFO 44:22 What new CFOs should focus on in their first 90 days Learn more about the podcast at https://www.thediaryofacfo.com If becoming a CFO is in your 5-year plan, get your free CFO Readiness Scorecard here: http://thecfo.scoreapp.com Get Involved Have a question or topic suggestion? Email: Ask@thediaryofacfo.com Connect with Guest Kevin Appleby: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinappleby/ Connect with Host Wassia Kamon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wassiakamon/ Connect with The Diary of a CFO Podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-diary-of-a-cfo-podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thediaryofacfopodcast/featured Website: https://www.thediaryofacfo.com X (Twitter): https://x.com/thediaryofacfo

    51 min
  3. Wassia Kamon’s 15-Year Journey from Staff Accountant to CFO

    JAN 16

    Wassia Kamon’s 15-Year Journey from Staff Accountant to CFO

    In this solo episode, Wassia Kamon shares how she went from staff accountant to CFO in 15 years, including the moments that didn’t look like progress at all. She talks about: Moments in her career that didn’t look like “progress” from the outside.Rethinking the value of credentials like the CPA, CMA, and MBA.Learning to lead under pressure and make decisions with incomplete information.What it was really like to grow her career while raising young kids.Promotions that looked impressive from the outside but were emotionally hard, including times when she had to support layoffs from the finance side.If you’re in accounting or finance and you feel like you’re doing everything “right” but still not moving fast enough, this episode will give you a practical sense of what to focus on next. Resources mentioned: 👉 If becoming a CFO is in your 5-year plan, get your free CFO Readiness Scorecard here: http://thecfo.scoreapp.com Have a question or topic suggestion? Email: Ask@thediaryofacfo.com 🔗 Connect with Host Wassia Kamon on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/

    27 min
  4. Beyond the Numbers: Leadership Lessons from Three-Time Nonprofit CFO, Teri Kozub

    12/30/2025

    Beyond the Numbers: Leadership Lessons from Three-Time Nonprofit CFO, Teri Kozub

    In this episode of The Diary of a CFO Podcast, host Wassia Kamon sits down with Teri Kozub, a three-time CFO with more than 33 years of experience in nonprofit finance and current CFO at Community Legal Services of Mid Florida. Teri shares how her non-linear career shaped her leadership style, why nonprofit finance is far more complex than many assume, and how CFOs can lead effectively through uncertainty, risk, and mission-driven pressure. Expect to Learn Why the CFO role extends far beyond numbers and reportingHow nonprofit CFOs navigate uncertainty and funding volatilityWhat trust and communication look like when leading outside your expertiseKey Timestamps 00:00:00 Introduction and career journey 03:18:00 Why nonprofit finance is not easier 09:03:00 Trust, communication, and leadership 18:47:00 Community and executive isolation 20:45:00 Endowments and long-term legacy Learn more about the podcast at https://www.thediaryofacfo.com Explore the CFO Readiness Scorecard at https://thecfo.scoreapp.com 👉 If becoming a CFO is in your 5-year plan, get your free CFO Readiness Scorecard here: http://thecfo.scoreapp.com 📬 Get Involved Have a question or topic suggestion? Email: Ask@thediaryofacfo.com 🔗 Connect with Guest Teri Kozub: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-kozub-81058a12/ 🔗 Connect with Host Wassia Kamon on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wassiakamon/ 🔗 Connect with The Diary of a CFO Podcast on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-diary-of-a-cfo-podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thediaryofacfopodcast/ featuredWebsite:https://www.thediaryofacfo.comX

    29 min
  5. Executive Presence Explained: Why Top Performers Still Get Overlooked, with Executive Coach, Jill Avey

    12/18/2025

    Executive Presence Explained: Why Top Performers Still Get Overlooked, with Executive Coach, Jill Avey

    Executive presence is often cited as the reason leaders don’t get promoted, but rarely explained. In this episode of The Diary of a CFO, Wassia Kamon sits down with executive coach Jill Avey to unpack what executive presence actually means, why high performers get stuck at the Director or VP level, and how promotions really happen at senior levels. 00:00:00 – Welcome back! 01:16:00 – What is executive presence? Jill’s model for understanding and building it 07:50:00 – The challenges women face in leadership roles and how to overcome them 10:35:00 – How to balance confidence with warmth and authenticity in leadership 13:25:00 – Preparing for high-stakes meetings: Strategies for executive success 15:36:00 – The power of listening and how it enhances your leadership presence 23:10:00 – Key obstacles keeping leaders stuck at the director level and how to break through 32:07:00 – How visibility, communication, and executive presence can advance your career This conversation explores: What executive presence is and what it’s notWhy hard work and strong performance reviews aren’t enoughThe role of visibility, trust, and strategic perspectiveHow leaders can show confidence without losing authenticityCommon leadership traps that affect both men and women------ Subscribe to the Finance Executive Track newsletter for actionable insights to become the obvious choice for top finance roles and thrive once you get there https://the-finance-executive-track.kit.com/signup Don't forget to download the free guide on AI prompts every finance leader needs: https://www.wassiakamon.com/prompts

    36 min
  6. Real Fraud Stories and Legal Protection for Your Fractional CFO Firm with Attorney Natalia Greene

    12/10/2025

    Real Fraud Stories and Legal Protection for Your Fractional CFO Firm with Attorney Natalia Greene

    Attorney and risk-management expert Natalia Greene reveals the real stories behind major fraud cases, including those featured on American Greed that she personally worked on. She also shares exactly how accountants, fractional CFOs, and boutique finance firms accidentally expose themselves to lawsuits, even when they’ve done nothing wrong. We cover: The wildest embezzlement schemes she’s seen in 20+ years of litigation Why accountants often get blamed first when fraud is uncovered The engagement letter mistakes that put firms at massive risk How scope creep silently increases your legal exposure The insurance policy every fractional CFO or firm owner needs (but few ever buy) The documentation habits that can make or break you in court Why client acceptance and annual reevaluation may be your best risk-prevention toolWhether you run an accounting firm, work as a fractional CFO, or simply want to protect your professional services business, this episode is packed with hard-won insights you won’t find in any textbook. ------ Subscribe to the Finance Executive Track newsletter for actionable insights to become the obvious choice for top finance roles and thrive once you get there https://the-finance-executive-track.kit.com/signup Don't forget to download the free guide on AI prompts every finance leader needs: https://www.wassiakamon.com/prompts

    46 min
  7. What CEOs Want from Today’s CFO, with Executive Recruiter, Mark Johnson

    11/20/2025

    What CEOs Want from Today’s CFO, with Executive Recruiter, Mark Johnson

    In this episode of The Diary of a CFO, executive recruiter Mark Johnson shares insider perspectives on what CEOs are really looking for in today's CFOs. Discover how the expectations of finance leadership are evolving, what separates top candidates in interviews, and the essential qualities that define success in the modern C-suite. Whether you’re an aspiring finance leader or a seasoned executive, you’ll gain actionable advice to stand out and thrive at the top. Expect to Learn Beyond the Resume: Why today’s CFOs must stand out with emotional intelligence, resilience, and trust, not just credentialsAI vs. Human Connection: How automation is reshaping hiring, and why relationships still make the differenceInterview Strategy: Why performance alone isn’t enough, and how to truly impress in high-stakes executive interviewsPath to CFO: What it really takes to land your first CFO seat, including mentorship, visibility, and cross-functional experienceThe Four Intelligence Pillars: How IQ, EQ, SQ, and AQ together define the next generation of finance leadership If becoming a CFO is part of your goals, get your CFO readiness score here: https://thecfo.scoreapp.com/ Don't forget to download the free guide on AI prompts every finance leader needs: https://www.wassiakamon.com/prompts

    42 min
  8. 80/20 Rule for FP&A Experts to Transform Decision-Making Through Analytics with Andrew Hull

    11/17/2025 · BONUS

    80/20 Rule for FP&A Experts to Transform Decision-Making Through Analytics with Andrew Hull

    Note: This episode is a pod swap from FP&A Unlocked. We’re sharing it here to help you discover another excellent show in the finance leadership space. All content belongs to the original podcast and host Paul Barnhurst. Note: This episode is a pod swap from FP&A Unlocked. We’re sharing it here to help you discover another excellent show in the finance leadership space. All content belongs to the original podcast and host Paul Barnhurst. In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, host Paul Barnhurst talks with Andrew Hull, a seasoned finance leader in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. They explore the role of FP&A professionals in driving business results, navigating inflation, and transitioning from traditional budgeting to impactful analytics. Andrew Hull is a financial executive with over two decades of experience in CPG. Currently the Vice President of Finance at UNFI Canada, Andrew has a proven track record of partnering with business leaders to deliver results through strategic insights and principled financial analysis. With a competitive spirit and passion for team leadership, Andrew shares his unique approach to FP&A, analytics, and the importance of actionable storytelling. Expect to Learn: The three pillars of great FP&A: technical skills, storytelling, and actionable decisions.Why Andrew advocates for changing FP&A to “FA&P” and focusing more on analytics.Lessons learned from leading finance during the pandemic.Key metrics for success in the distribution industry, including variable margin and truck utilization.Practical advice for accelerating budget processes and focusing on analytics that drive results. 🔗 Connect with Guest Andrew Hull LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewhull4/ UNFI Canada: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unfi/ 🔗 Connect with Host Paul on Website: https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefpandaguy

    1 hr
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About

Whether you’re a current CFO, on the path to the role, or part of a finance team, this podcast is for you. The Diary of a CFO podcast takes you behind the scenes of modern finance leadership through honest conversations about how real finance leaders build their careers, make tough decisions, and navigate the weight of the CFO role. Hosted by award‑winning CFO Wassia Kamon, each episode gives you practical insight into how today’s best finance leaders: Build high‑performing finance and FP&A teams.Partner with CEOs, boards, and capital providers (banks, PE/VC, and impact lenders).Navigate growth, regulation, and transformation without burning out.​ Whether you’re a current CFO, a senior finance leader, or a someone who wants a stronger handle on the numbers, you’ll walk away with tactics you can use and stories that make you feel less alone on your journey. To suggest topics, email ask@thediaryofacfo.com. To become a guest or sponsor of the show, visit thediaryofacfo.com.​

Information

  • Creator
    Wassia Kamon, CPA, CMA, MBA
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Diary of a CFO