The Growth-Minded CFO

Upflow
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Today's financial leader is more than a number cruncher - they're a growth architect and a strategic partner in the organization’s success. The Growth-Minded CFO podcast challenges the status-quo and explores how the best CFOs approach their work and lives. Hosts Lauren Pearl (Fractional CFO, 3-time Founder and Startup Finance Instructor at NYU) and Alex Louisy (FinTech CEO and Y Combinator graduate) speak with inspiring finance and business leaders who’ll share what great CFOs are doing to support high-performing organizations.

  1. 12h ago

    Revisiting: Wall Street to SaaS CFO with Carla Cooper (CFO @ Contentful)

    What does it take to be a truly great CFO today? It’s not just about balancing the books—it’s about driving strategy, managing risks, and telling the financial story in a way that inspires confidence. In this re-released episode, first published in March 2025, Carla Cooper, CFO of Contentful, shares her journey from Wall Street equity analyst to CFO, discussing her role in scaling Contentful, navigating IPOs and acquisitions, and offering valuable tips on transitioning into a CFO position. She emphasizes the importance of networking, continual learning, and telling a compelling financial story. Carla also provides practical advice for finance professionals contemplating job changes and reflects on the evolving responsibilities of a CFO. Connect with Carla on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-newmeyer-cooper-843a591/ Connect with Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexlouisy/ Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenepearl/ The Growth-Minded CFO podcast aims to challenge the status-quo and explore how the best CFOs approach their work and lives. Hosts Lauren Pearl (Fractional CFO, 3-time Founder and Startup Finance Instructor at NYU) and Alex Louisy (FinTech CEO and Y Combinator graduate) speak with inspiring finance and business leaders who’ll share what great CFOs are doing to support high-performing organizations. Find all our episodes, in both video and audio format with written summaries, on our news website: https://growthmindedcfo.com/

    44 min

  2. Jun 10

    The CFO’s AI Playbook: How to Roll Out AI Across Your Company, with Ryan Roccon (CFO at Zapier)

    AI is no longer just an experiment. For many companies, it is quickly becoming an expectation. But rolling it out across a business is a very different challenge from giving a few people access to a few tools. So what does AI adoption actually look like when it is done at scale? In this episode of The Growth-Minded CFO, Alex Louisy and Lauren Pearl sit down with Ryan Roccon, CFO at Zapier, to unpack how one of the world’s leading automation companies is approaching AI across the organisation. Ryan shares why Zapier has taken a broad-access approach to AI tools, how they balance speed with control, and why CFOs need to avoid getting stuck in a purely cost-focused mindset. Because according to Ryan, the risk of getting left behind is far greater than the risk of a few expensive experiments. The conversation also gets into how Zapier measures AI usage, why telemetry matters, how to build guardrails without killing momentum, and why finance can be one of the best places to prove what AI can really do inside a company. They also discuss Ryan’s own journey from controller to CFO, the importance of curiosity in finance leadership, and why the modern CFO has to play a much more active role in shaping company culture. If you are a CFO, finance leader, founder, or operator thinking about how to move from AI experimentation to real adoption, this episode is a great place to start. Check out this episode on YouTube. Connect with Ryan Roccon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanroccon/ Learn more about Zapier: https://zapier.com/ Subscribe for more conversations with growth-minded finance leaders shaping the future of the CFO role. The Growth-Minded CFO podcast challenges the status quo and explores how the best CFOs approach their work and lives. Hosts Lauren Pearl, Fractional CFO, 3-time Founder, and Startup Finance Instructor at NYU, and Alex Louisy, FinTech CEO and Y Combinator graduate, speak with inspiring finance and business leaders about what it takes to support high-performing organisations. For the full episode summary and key takeaways, visit: https://growthmindedcfo.com/podcast/ryan-roccon Got a question or want to get in touch? Reach us at hello@growthmindedcfo.com

    42 min

  3. May 28

    Revisiting: Chris Ortega on What Makes a Great CFO (Hint: They're Not Just a 'Human Calculator')

    In this episode, hosts Lauren and Alex sit down with Chris Ortega, the CEO and founder of Fresh FP&A. Chris shares his inspiring career journey, from his early passion for finance to roles at Ernst & Young and leadership positions in fast growing software and pharmaceutical companies. He discusses the foundation and philosophy behind Fresh FP&A, highlighting its focus on being Financial Partners and Advisors - and why all internal finance teams should position themselves the same way! The conversation delves into the necessity of thinking like a business person for success in finance leadership, and why a collaborative approach that builds strong business partnerships with other departments is key. Chris also emphasizes the role of emotional intelligence, authenticity, and learning from failure as key components of effective leadership. This episode is rich with personal anecdotes and professional insights, illustrating how CFOs can inspire and empower their organizations beyond traditional financial metrics. We hope you enjoy the episode!00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction00:22 Chris Ortega's Background and Career Journey02:12 The Role of CFOs and CEOs06:56 Transitioning to CEO and Fresh FP&A14:43 Building Collaborative Finance Teams18:41 The Consultative Approach in Finance19:38 The Power of Empathy in Finance20:55 The Concept of First Team22:11 Balancing IQ and EQ25:39 Embracing Failure as a CFO30:24 Inspiring Leadership and Authenticity33:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/freshcfo/ Connect with Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexlouisy/ Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenepearl/ Want to get in touch? Reach out to our producer at joseph.sweeney@upflow.io Want to recommend a guest? Apply via our form: https://insights.upflow.io/apply-to-be-a-guest-on-the-growth-minded-cfo-podcast

    38 min

  4. May 14

    Why Every CFO Needs a Personal Brand (And How to Build One), with Wassia Kamon

    Most CFOs don’t think about personal brand until they need something: a new role, a board seat, a stronger network, or a way to stand out. But by then, it might already be too late. In this episode of The Growth-Minded CFO, we speak with Wassia Kamon, CFO of Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs and host of The Diary of a CFO podcast, about why finance leaders can no longer afford to stay invisible. Wassia shares how she went from having “nothing much” show up when she Googled herself to building a LinkedIn presence with more than 20,000 followers, launching her own podcast, becoming a speaker, teaching in Wharton Online’s FP&A Certificate Program, and landing her first CFO role. We discuss why personal brand is not about becoming an influencer. It is about making your thinking visible, building trust before you need it, and creating opportunities your resume alone cannot unlock. Chapters: 01:50 Why Wassia started The Diary of a CFO03:39 The moment personal brand clicked04:47 How LinkedIn led to Wassia’s first VP role05:21 Speaking, Wharton Online, and unexpected opportunities06:51 Why personal brand helps inside your company too09:13 Building systems to make LinkedIn sustainable09:35 Writing LinkedIn posts at swimming lessons10:22 Creating an idea bank and scheduling content12:17 Why being memorable matters more than another resume14:21 What writing, speaking, and podcasting give Wassia17:33 How the podcast makes content easier18:10 Finding finance lessons in everyday life20:12 How visibility can influence your finance team21:00 How CFOs can post without breaking confidentiality23:34 Practical advice for aspiring CFOs24:20 Wassia’s three-part Venn diagram for personal brand27:10 Using AI to understand what future employers want37:12 Why CFOs need to learn from each otherFor CFOs and finance leaders thinking about their next stage of growth, this episode is a reminder that personal brand isn’t about posting for the sake of posting. It’s about making sure the market can see the leader you already are. Watch the full video episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dGFQHSJuoOo Check out Wassia's Diary of a CFO podcast here: https://thediaryofacfo.com/ Subscribe for more conversations with growth-minded finance leaders shaping the future of the CFO role. The Growth-Minded CFO podcast challenges the status quo and explores how the best CFOs approach their work and lives. Hosts Lauren Pearl (Fractional CFO, 3-time Founder, and Startup Finance Instructor at NYU) and Alex Louisy (FinTech CEO and Y Combinator graduate) speak with inspiring finance and business leaders about what it takes to support high-performing organizations. This podcast is powered by Upflow — a Financial Relationship Management platform enabling faster payments, stronger customer relationships, and efficient growth for your business. Join thousands of next-level finance leaders and go from chasing invoices to engaging customers. Find out more at upflow.io. Want to get in touch? Reach out to our producer at joseph.sweeney@upflow.io Want to recommend a guest? Apply via our form: https://insights.upflow.io/apply-to-be-a-guest-on-the-growth-minded-cfo-podcast

    39 min

  5. Apr 29

    Revisiting: Ilana Esterrich (CFO @ Planned Parenthood) On Leading Beyond The Numbers

    If your role as CFO stops at the numbers, you’re already behind. Ilana Esterrich, CFO at Planned Parenthood, breaks down what it actually means to lead in today’s environment—from building resilient teams to operating in constant uncertainty. With a background in the military, Ilana brings a unique perspective on leadership, discipline, and adaptability—showing how finance leaders can step into a far more strategic role inside their organisations. In this episode, we cover: What a “growth-minded” CFO really looks like in practiceHow to lead finance teams through uncertainty and changeLessons from the military that translate to modern leadershipMoving from tactical execution to strategic impactWhy curiosity and continuous learning matter more than everAbout our guest: Ilana Esterrich is the CFO at Planned Parenthood, where she leads financial strategy in a complex, high-stakes environment. With a background in the military, she brings a unique perspective on leadership, resilience, and team development. The Growth-Minded CFO is the podcast for finance leaders who want to go beyond the numbers and play a bigger role in driving growth. Hosted by Alex Louisy (CEO at Upflow) and Lauren Pearl (Fractional CFO and Founder), the show explores how modern CFOs are building, leading, and scaling high-performing organisations. This podcast is powered by Upflow - helping businesses get paid faster, strengthen customer relationships, and grow more efficiently. Learn more at upflow.io Want to get in touch? Reach out to our producer at joseph.sweeney@upflow.io Want to recommend a guest? Apply via our form: https://insights.upflow.io/apply-to-be-a-guest-on-the-growth-minded-cfo-podcast

    40 min

  6. Apr 15

    Revisiting: Rita Kale (CFO @ Valo Health) On Why The Best CFOs Think Like Owners

    In this special re-release of The Growth-Minded CFO, Alex and Lauren revisit the very first episode of the podcast - featuring Rita Kale, now CFO at Valo Health. At the time, we didn’t know what this show would become. Since then, we’ve spoken to some of the best finance operators in the world. But looking back, this conversation set the tone for everything that followed. Rita brings a rare combination of global corporate experience - from companies like Roche Pharmaceuticals - and hands-on leadership in high-growth biotech startups. That mix makes this episode just as relevant today as it was when we first recorded it. In this conversation, we explore what it really means to operate as a modern CFO: Why the best CFOs act as owners, not observersHow moving from large corporates to startups forces a shift in mindset, speed, and accountabilityWhat it takes to navigate global complexity, from ERP implementations to scaling finance operations across marketsWhy investing early in systems and processes pays off long-termAnd how adaptability separates good finance leaders from great onesWe also get into something a bit unexpected, but now very familiar for this show. Rita shares how running became a tool for reflection and decision-making. Creating mental space. Finding your own rhythm instead of copying others. It’s a reminder that performance isn’t just about output - it’s about sustainability, both professionally and personally. Looking back, this episode captures what The Growth-Minded CFO is all about: going deep into the technical side of finance, while also exploring the mindset behind great leadership. It’s a gem - and the perfect place to start if you’re new to the show. Chapters: 03:25 Rita Global Career Path05:56 From Global To Local CFO08:28 No Copy Paste Solutions09:57 First 60 Days Playbook12:06 Stakeholders And Priorities13:46 ERP Planning Mindset18:54 Beyond Back Office CFO21:00 Financial Peace Foundation22:18 From Reporting to Impact22:46 Escaping Spreadsheet Chaos23:28 Right Tools Not ERP24:00 Why She Joined a Startup27:35 Founder Lessons in Finance29:06 Biggest Shift Leaving Corporate31:26 Work Life Balance as a CFO32:01 Running as a Reset Button34:42 Thinking Time Beats Hustle38:25 Culture Time Off and ClaritySubscribe for more conversations with growth-minded finance leaders shaping the future of the CFO role. The Growth-Minded CFO podcast challenges the status quo and explores how the best CFOs approach their work and lives. Hosts Lauren Pearl (Fractional CFO, 3-time Founder, and Startup Finance Instructor at NYU) and Alex Louisy (FinTech CEO and Y Combinator graduate) speak with inspiring finance and business leaders about what it takes to support high-performing organizations. This podcast is powered by Upflow - a Financial Relationship Management platform enabling faster payments, stronger customer relationships, and efficient growth for your business. Join thousands of next-level finance leaders and go from chasing invoices to engaging customers. Find out more at upflow.io. Want to get in touch? Reach out to our producer at joseph.sweeney@upflow.io Want to recommend a guest? Apply via our form: https://insights.upflow.io/apply-to-be-a-guest-on-the-growth-minded-cfo-podcast

    41 min

  7. Apr 1

    How a Former Pro Musician Became the CFO of a $1B Marketplace, with Kevin Drost

    How does someone go from jazz musician to CFO of a $1B marketplace? In this episode of The Growth-Minded CFO, Alex Louisy and Lauren Pearl speak with Kevin Drost, former CFO of Reverb — the musical instrument marketplace acquired by Etsy — about his unconventional path into finance and what it taught him about the role. Kevin didn’t start in finance. He started by running a business. From founding a record label to navigating cash flow, trade-offs, and uncertainty in real time, he learned finance by doing — not by following a traditional path. In this conversation, he shares how that operator mindset shaped his approach as a CFO, why finance leaders need to stay close to customers, and how the role has evolved from reporting performance to helping drive growth. Chapters: 02:38 From Jazz to Record Labels 05:18 Learning Business on the Fly 06:51 MBA While Operating 10:40 MBA Value Framework 14:13 Faking It and Risk 20:19 Why Choose CFO 23:57 Leaving Consulting for Reverb 25:28 Building the Music Marketplace 26:32 Choosing Growth Priorities 27:25 From Strategy to CFO 29:21 Learning by Doing 35:05 Public Company Rigor at Etsy 37:27 Marketplace Metrics and ROI 40:42 New Era ADR Mission 44:57 Advice for Finance LeadersIn this episode, Kevin covers: Why learning finance inside the business builds better judgmentThe limits of traditional career paths (and when an MBA actually helps)How marketplace businesses create complex trade-offsWhy CFOs need to take calculated risks to drive growthThe importance of staying close to customers and productHow to scale a business without losing controlWhy putting yourself in uncomfortable roles accelerates learningAs Kevin puts it: “Getting yourself out and speaking to customers is probably the most valuable thing you can do as a finance leader.”This is a practical look at how finance leaders can move beyond reporting and play a more active role in shaping the business.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/W30D0JNJnLg?si=53lBTp2oyBHyTXBVIf you’re a CFO, finance leader, or operator, this episode will give you a clearer view of how the role is evolving — and what it takes to stay effective as the business grows.Subscribe for more conversations with growth-minded finance leaders shaping the future of the CFO role.The Growth-Minded CFO podcast challenges the status quo and explores how the best CFOs approach their work and lives. Hosts Lauren Pearl (Fractional CFO, 3-time Founder, and Startup Finance Instructor at NYU) and Alex Louisy (FinTech CEO and Y Combinator graduate) speak with inspiring finance and business leaders about what it takes to support high-performing organizations.This podcast is powered by Upflow — a Financial Relationship Management platform enabling faster payments, stronger customer relationships, and efficient growth for your business.Join thousands of next-level finance leaders and go from chasing invoices to engaging customers. Find out more at upflow.io.Want to get in touch? Reach out to our producer at joseph.sweeney@upflow.ioWant to recommend a guest? Apply via our form: https://insights.upflow.io/apply-to-be-a-guest-on-the-growth-minded-cfo-podcast

    49 min

  8. Mar 18

    Revisiting: What Makes a Great CFO? Expert CFO Recruiter, Dav Masaon, Tell Us

    When is the right time to hire your first CFO? And what actually separates a great one from an expensive mistake? In this re-released standout episode of The Growth-Minded CFO, we revisit our conversation with Dav Masaon, Co-Founder of executive search firm Zanda, to unpack one of the most high-stakes decisions founders make: hiring a CFO who can truly scale with the business. This isn’t a checklist of qualifications. It’s a practical look at what happens when companies bring in finance leadership too early, too late - or with the wrong expectations. Dav brings a front-row view from placing CFOs across high-growth startups globally, sharing how the role is evolving fast in response to tighter capital, rising expectations, and the growing influence of AI and automation. A clear tension runs through the conversation: startups don’t just need financial oversight anymore. They need operators who can balance discipline with ambition - driving growth while building the foundations for long-term performance. We also dig into what founders consistently get wrong. From over-indexing on “big company” experience to underestimating the importance of stage-fit, Dav explains why the best CFO hires aren’t always the most obvious on paper. If you’re a CFO or finance leader looking to understand what truly sets the best apart — from how they operate to the traits and experiences that define them — this episode will help you benchmark and sharpen your own approach. In this episode: When and why companies should hire their first CFOThe biggest finance hiring mistakes founders makeWhat differentiates a great startup CFO from a corporate, and why that matters for CFO hiringHow the CFO role is evolving with AI and automationWhy financial discipline matters more than everHow to evaluate candidates for stage-fit and real impact.Subscribe for more conversations with growth-minded finance leaders shaping the future of the CFO role. The Growth-Minded CFO podcast challenges the status quo and explores how the best CFOs approach their work and lives. Hosts Lauren Pearl (Fractional CFO, 3-time Founder, and Startup Finance Instructor at NYU) and Alex Louisy (Fintech CEO and Y Combinator graduate) talk with inspiring finance and business leaders about what it takes to support high-performing organizations. This podcast is powered by Upflow - a Financial Relationship Management platform enabling faster payments, stronger customer relationships, and efficient growth for your business. Join thousands of next-level finance leaders and go from chasing invoices to engaging customers. Find out more at https://upflow.io/ Want to get in touch? Reach out to our producer at joseph.sweeney@upflow.io

    39 min
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7 Ratings

About

Today's financial leader is more than a number cruncher - they're a growth architect and a strategic partner in the organization’s success. The Growth-Minded CFO podcast challenges the status-quo and explores how the best CFOs approach their work and lives. Hosts Lauren Pearl (Fractional CFO, 3-time Founder and Startup Finance Instructor at NYU) and Alex Louisy (FinTech CEO and Y Combinator graduate) speak with inspiring finance and business leaders who’ll share what great CFOs are doing to support high-performing organizations.

Information

  • Creator
    Upflow
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Upflow
  • Show Website
    The Growth-Minded CFO

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