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. How AI Agents are Reshaping the Finance Tech Stack with Josh LaSov

    3D AGO

    How AI Agents are Reshaping the Finance Tech Stack with Josh LaSov

    In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst is joined by Josh LaSov to explore how FP&A is evolving with data, BI, and AI. They discuss how finance professionals can move beyond traditional reporting by combining financial and operational data, and why understanding data at a deeper level is now essential. Josh shares how AI is changing analysis, forecasting, and workflows, and how FP&A teams can use it to increase productivity and deliver faster insights. Josh LaSov is an FP&A and data professional with experience in consulting, ERP implementations, and analytics. He has implemented NetSuite and FP&A tools across many companies and previously co-founded Satori Reporting, a BI platform for NetSuite users that was later acquired by private equity. He is now the founder of Causi AI, where he focuses on building AI agents to help finance teams automate analysis, processes, and forecasting. Expect to Learn: What makes FP&A professionals stand out todayWhy combining financial and operational data is criticalHow BI tools expand the role of FP&AHow AI is improving analysis, forecasting, and workflows Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: “AI helps you save a lot of time, but the judgment and analysis still need to be done by you.” - Josh LaSov“You can’t explain why numbers changed if you don’t understand the data behind them.” - Josh LaSov Josh highlights that FP&A is no longer just about building reports or models. The role is shifting toward deeper analysis and faster decision-making. While AI can handle large amounts of data and speed up workflows, the real value still comes from understanding the business and communicating insights clearly. 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 Josh: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-lasov-7897334/ Homepage: https://www.cauzzy.ai/ AI Agent Marketplace: https://marketplace.cauzzy.ai/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@cauzzyAI Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder 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 [02:25] – Introducing Josh LaSov [04:59] – What Great FP&A Looks Like [09:52] – Building Satori Reporting [13:19] – BI Tools and Reporting Challenges [16:25] – Introduction to Causi AI [25:05] – AI Agents and Accuracy Challenges [29:22] – How FP&A Should Use AI [36:10] – AI Tech Stack & Future Direction [43:05] – Key Skills for FP&A [46:53] – Get To Know Function

    51 min
  2. AI Governance for Board Directors to Fix Risk Exposure with Actionable Tools - Shannon Nash

    4D AGO

    AI Governance for Board Directors to Fix Risk Exposure with Actionable Tools - Shannon Nash

    In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper are joined by Shannon Nash to discuss how finance roles are evolving and how AI is changing the way businesses operate. They talk about Shannon’s career journey, the importance of understanding operations, and how companies are handling AI at different levels. Shannon Nash is a CPA, attorney, and experienced C-suite leader. She has worked as CFO at companies like Wing, Reputation.com, and Inside Source. She is now a Partner at Alpha AI, focusing on AI governance for executives and boards. In this episode, you will discover: Why career paths are not linear anymoreWhy finance leaders need to understand operationsHow AI is being used across companiesThe gap between AI usage and leadership awarenessWhat CFOs need to manage when it comes to AIKey questions boards should ask about AI AI is becoming part of everyday business, but many companies are still catching up when it comes to managing it properly. Understanding where AI is used and how it’s controlled is becoming essential for leaders. 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: [01:03] – Shannon Nash Background [05:54] – Why Switching Careers Is the New Normal [09:00] – Finance Leaders & Operations Mindset [08:33] – From AI Tools to AI Strategy [14:26] – The Challenge of Catching Up with AI [20:00] – How Boards Should Approach AI Oversight

    22 min
  3. Excel Will Never Be the Same Again after AI Copilot with Brian Jones

    5D AGO

    Excel Will Never Be the Same Again after AI Copilot with Brian Jones

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Brian Jones to explore how Excel is evolving in the era of AI and large language models. They discuss how Copilot, agent mode, and AI-driven capabilities are transforming the way users build, analyse, and improve spreadsheets. Brian shares insights into how Excel is becoming more like a developer tool and how AI can automate repetitive tasks while enhancing productivity for both beginners and advanced users. Brian Jones is the Vice President of Microsoft Excel, Forms, and Office Platforms. He has been with Microsoft since 1999, working across multiple productivity products, including Word, Office Forms, and developer extensibility tools. In his current role, Brian leads a global team responsible for Excel and related platforms, driving innovation and integrating AI capabilities like Copilot and agent mode into the product ecosystem. Expect to Learn What “agent mode” means and how it enables automation in spreadsheetsHow AI can help analyse, fix errors, and improve financial modelsWhy Excel still requires strong logic and formula knowledgeHow different AI models impact outputs and workflows in Excel Edge 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“It’s not just about building from scratch, it’s about improving what you already have.” – Brian Jones Excel is evolving into a more intelligent and interactive platform where AI acts as a powerful assistant rather than a replacement. From fixing broken references to building dashboards and automating workflows, tools like Copilot and agent mode are helping users work faster and smarter 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: [00:51] – Introducing Brian Jones [02:50] – Returning to the Excel Team [04:05] – AI & the Future of Excel [06:38] – Customer Questions About Copilot [10:22] – Agent Mode Explained [11:41] – Modeling the community about the Excel agent [13:14] – AI Models & Output Differences [17:16] – Final Thoughts

    17 min
  4. AI Strategy Finance Leaders Must Use to Avoid Siloed Tools and Failed Adoption with Vikram Bhandari

    MAR 26

    AI Strategy Finance Leaders Must Use to Avoid Siloed Tools and Failed Adoption with Vikram Bhandari

    In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Snyder are joined by Vikram Bhandari to explore how organizations should approach AI in finance and FP&A. They discuss why most companies fail with AI adoption, the importance of enterprise-wide strategy over siloed tools, and how finance teams can evolve from reporting to forward-looking decision-making. Vikram shares practical insights on AI readiness, forecasting, and how leaders can leverage AI to drive better business outcomes. Vikram is the Chief Technology & Innovation Officer at Riveron, where he leads AI, digital transformation, and finance modernization initiatives. With nearly 25 years of experience, Vikram works closely with CFOs to transform finance functions through technology. He previously served as the President and CEO of Yantra, a company he founded and led for over 15 years before its acquisition by Riveron. Expect to Learn: Why most AI implementations fail and how to avoid common mistakesThe importance of enterprise AI strategy vs. siloed tool adoptionHow FP&A is evolving into a forward-looking, decision-making functionWhat it takes to prepare your data, processes, and governance for AI Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode: The real question is not which AI tool is best, it’s whether your finance architecture is ready to absorb AI.” - Vikram BhandariIf you treat AI as a feature, you get incremental gains. If you treat it as a strategy, you get competitive advantage.” - Vikram Bhandari Vikram emphasizes that AI should be treated as a capability multiplier rather than a shortcut. He highlights the importance of strong data foundations, governance, and enterprise strategy to unlock real value. The episode reinforces that the future of FP&A lies in combining machine intelligence with human judgment to drive better, faster decisions. 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 Vikram: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vikrambhandari/ Company: https://riveron.com/ Website: https://www.tutorialspoint.com/ Follow Glenn: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder 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 [02:08] – Introducing Vikram Bhandari [03:16] – What Great FP&A Looks Like [05:21] – AI in Finance Today [05:09] – Why Most AI Implementations Fail [11:05] – Enterprise AI Strategy vs. Siloed Tools [15:16] – AI Readiness: Data, Decisions, Governance [17:54] – AI Forecasting: Calibration & Trust [23:14] – Skills Finance Needs in an AI World [34:24] – AI Agents, Excel, and Productivity vs. Strategy [41:40] – Final Advice on AI Strategy [47:52] – Closing Thoughts

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

    MAR 25

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

    MAR 24

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

    MAR 19

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

    MAR 18

    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
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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
    321
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Paul Barnhurst
  • Show Website
    The FP&A Guy Network

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