LevelUp Podcast

Nick Araco
  • 5.0 (3)
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  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

This is the LevelUp Podcast—where finance leaders share real stories, insights, and the connections that move them forward. Tune in to learn, sharpen your edge, and level up together.

  1. 12/04/2025

    Building Clarity and Strategic Value in the Finance Function With Daniel Nelson

    Daniel Nelson is a Fractional CFO and Partner at Tech Brainstorm, where he helps founders and growth-stage companies bring order, strategy, and speed to their finance functions. Tech Brainstorm specializes in building investor-ready financial models and scalable operations for innovative businesses. Over his 15+ year career, Daniel has supported more than 40 startups and high-growth companies, helping them raise capital, navigate M&A, and design finance teams that drive strategic outcomes. He is also an active educator, teaching Startup Economics 101 to help entrepreneurs understand the power of finance in scaling their businesses. In this episode… Sometimes, the finance function feels like the last place anyone goes looking for clarity. Data pours in from every direction, systems pile on top of one another, and leaders are expected to somehow make sense of it all. But what if clarity isn't a luxury, but rather the real strategic advantage that finance leaders can create? And what happens when the job isn't just reporting what happened but shaping what happens next? According to Daniel Nelson, a seasoned guide for founders navigating financial chaos, the answer starts with making the complex useful. He believes that finance earns its power when it helps people understand their business, not just measure it. Drawing on years of experience transforming early-stage companies, he explains how the right structures, tools, and conversations can transform scattered data into meaningful decision points. In his view, the real value of the finance leader lies in their ability to connect dots across people, processes, and systems, enabling teams to move forward with confidence. In this episode of the Level Up, Nick Araco is joined by Daniel Nelson, Fractional CFO and Partner at Tech Brainstorm, to discuss how finance leaders can build clarity and strategic value in fast-moving companies. They explore what it takes to modernize finance operations, how to turn KPIs into practical growth tools, and why real-time data only matters if teams know how to use it. Daniel also gives advice on navigating founder–finance tension and building trust that enables better decision-making.

    45 min

  2. 11/20/2025

    The Transformative Power of Authentic Leadership in Finance and Operations With Rho Lind

    Rho Lind is the CFO & COO at Mood.com, an online retailer specializing in federally legal hemp-derived cannabis products. He is a finance and operations executive specializing in leading both startups and established companies through transformative growth. Prior to joining Mood, Rho served as Senior Vice President of Finance & Operations at ONE Jeanswear Group and as Senior Director of Financial Planning & Analytics at Polo Ralph Lauren. Throughout his career, he has led capital raises, streamlined global operations, and fostered strong cultures that support organizations during periods of rapid change. In this episode… Some leaders rise by pushing harder, but others rise by letting go. It is surprising how often real influence comes from being open rather than being in control. What happens when a finance leader decides that vulnerability is not a weakness but the starting point for genuine impact? Rho Lind believes the first move is changing your mental framework. Drawing from his experience as a seasoned strategic leader, he explains that leadership starts with the courage to stop pretending you have all the answers. From there, he builds a team of people who are smarter than he is, encourages them to challenge him, and keeps his focus on thinking ahead rather than getting lost in the day-to-day. He views leadership as a blend of learning and teaching, rooted in humility and a willingness to acknowledge mistakes. For Rho, authenticity is what inspires people to grow and face uncertainty with confidence. In this episode of Level Up, Nick Araco is joined by Rho Lind, CFO and COO at Mood.com, to discuss how authenticity transforms modern finance leadership. They explore why leaders must surround themselves with smarter people, how to operate with foresight instead of reactivity, and what it takes to lead through volatility with clarity. Rho also shares advice on balancing data with intuition to make stronger decisions.

    41 min

  3. 11/06/2025

    Staying Grounded and Authentic While Scaling Through Uncertainty With Tracie Williams

    Tracie Williams is the President & CEO of SONGWON International Americas, Inc., part of SONGWON Industrial Group, where she oversees operations across North and South America. SONGWON is the world's second-largest manufacturer of polymer stabilizers and a global leader in specialty chemicals. She specializes in global strategy, planning, risk management, and financial control to drive revenue and profitability. Tracie began her career as an art teacher before transitioning into finance, a journey that shaped her people-focused leadership style and commitment to empowering teams and transforming culture. In this episode… In times of rapid change and relentless uncertainty, even the most seasoned leaders can struggle to stay centered. As organizations grow and the pace of innovation accelerates, how do leaders maintain their authenticity, remain people-focused, and continue to lead with heart instead of reaction? Tracie Williams, a former art teacher and now a finance executive, believes the essential factor is remaining true to both your team and your mission. She emphasizes that growth and transformation begin not with technology or automation but with trust, connection, and clarity. By leading with intention, Tracie believes leaders can transform chaos into clarity and empower their teams to adapt with confidence. Her approach, rooted in empathy and presence, reveals how authentic leadership creates alignment and lasting impact even amid disruption. In this episode of Level Up, Nick Araco sits down with Tracie Williams, President & CEO of SONGWON International Americas, Inc., to discuss staying grounded and authentic while navigating uncertainty. They discuss how to lead with intention in times of change, why people (not technology) drive real transformation, and how to build clarity from chaos. Tracie also shares how her creative roots continue to shape her leadership philosophy today.

    41 min

  4. 10/23/2025

    Reimagining Finance Leadership in a Disrupted, Tech-Driven World With Sam Levy

    Sam Levy is Senior Vice President at Oracle NetSuite, the world's leading provider of AI-powered cloud ERP solutions for growing and finance-led companies. Under his leadership, NetSuite has grown to serve thousands of organizations globally and is recognized as the #1 AI Cloud ERP, with a vibrant community including over 1,500 CFO Alliance member enterprises. With over 25 years of experience in enterprise software, he has also held leadership roles at Epicor, Infor, and other technology firms. In this episode… The finance world is undergoing a massive shift. Once defined by reporting and control, today's finance leaders must steer organizations through constant disruption, volatile markets, and rapid technological change. The question is: how can modern CFOs evolve from financial stewards into true growth partners who drive strategy, innovation, and performance? According to Sam Levy, a veteran finance and technology leader, the key lies in operational fluency and connected decision-making. He explains that today's most effective CFOs don't just interpret the numbers; they shape what happens next by linking financial metrics to operational drivers and business outcomes. Sam highlights how leading finance teams are using real-time data and targeted AI tools to streamline forecasting, optimize cash flow, and strengthen cross-functional planning. The result is faster, smarter decisions and a new era of finance leadership grounded in clarity, confidence, and capital efficiency. In this episode of the Level Up, Nick Araco speaks with Sam Levy, Senior Vice President at Oracle NetSuite, to discuss how CFOs can thrive in a disrupted, tech-driven world. Sam discusses the evolution of the CFO from reporter to strategist, practical applications of AI and automation that deliver measurable ROI, and how to balance growth with discipline in today's capital-constrained environment. Sam also shares why mastering operational fluency is the defining skill for the next generation of finance leaders.

    31 min

  5. 10/09/2025

    Why Modern CFOs Must Master Relationships, Storytelling, and AI With Sumeet Agrawal

    Sumeet Agrawal is the Founder & Managing Partner at SmartScale Finance, a firm providing fractional CFO and operations consulting services to life sciences, deep tech, and AI startups. He brings over 15 years of experience in finance, strategy, and operations across the biotech and technology sectors. At SmartScale, he helps early-stage companies scale without the cost of a full-time CFO. Before founding the company, Sumeet held executive and financial leadership roles overseeing strategy, accounting, HR, IT, and business planning. In this episode… Modern CFOs are no longer just number crunchers — they're storytellers, strategists, and relationship architects. As AI transforms the business landscape, finance leaders face mounting pressure to connect insights with action and influence stakeholders across the organization. So, what separates the CFOs who lead from those who merely report? According to Sumeet Agrawal, a seasoned finance leader and strategic advisor, mastering storytelling and relationships is what elevates today's CFOs. He highlights that financial strategy is no longer about perfect spreadsheets but about translating data into compelling narratives that align teams and drive decisions. By combining empathy with analytics, CFOs can bridge gaps between investors, executives, and employees. Sumeet believes that in the age of AI, the most effective finance leaders will strike a balance between human insight and technological power to shape the future of business. In this episode of the Level Up, Nick Araco sits down with Sumeet Agrawal, Founder & Managing Partner at SmartScale Finance, to discuss why modern CFOs must master relationships, storytelling, and AI. They explore how finance leaders can navigate misaligned expectations, build trust across departments, and use AI to communicate complex ideas with clarity. Sumeet also shares lessons in leadership, resilience, and strategic decision-making from his career journey.

    40 min

  6. 09/25/2025

    Scaling Mission-Driven Work Through Financial Discipline and Innovation With Aaron Wilkins

    Aaron Wilkins is the Senior Vice President of Accounting, Legal, and Compliance at Human-I-T, a nonprofit social enterprise that bridges the digital divide by providing low-cost technology, internet access, and digital literacy training to underserved communities. He has been with the organization since 2012, first serving as Chief Financial Officer before stepping into his current role in 2021. Under his leadership, Human-I-T has distributed over 523,000 devices and diverted more than 15 million pounds of e-waste from landfills, empowering individuals and nonprofits nationwide. In this episode… Scaling a mission-driven organization can be a delicate balance between staying true to your cause while ensuring financial sustainability and growth. How do you manage this equilibrium, especially when scaling operations and measuring impact? Is it possible to maintain your mission without sacrificing financial discipline? According to Aaron Wilkins, a leader with extensive experience in nonprofit finance, mission-driven work requires a clear focus on both measurable outcomes and sustainable growth. He highlights that successfully scaling a nonprofit involves translating the mission into actionable strategies while ensuring sound financial systems. By maintaining a dual focus on both mission and metrics, an organization can achieve significant impact without compromising its core values. In this episode of the Level Up, Nick Araco sits down with Aaron Wilkins, Senior Vice President of Accounting, Legal, and Compliance at Human-I-T, to discuss scaling mission-driven work through financial discipline and innovation. Aaron shares how curiosity, creativity, and collaboration drive the culture at his organization. He also discusses the challenges of letting go of responsibilities for growth and why compliance and AI will be crucial for future CFOs.

    45 min

  7. 09/18/2025

    How People-First Leadership Defines Modern CFO Success With Ilana Esterrich

    Ilana Esterrich is the Chief Financial Officer at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, a nonprofit that provides sexual and reproductive health care and education nationwide. Ilana previously served as CFO at the American Coatings Association and the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments. A recognized voice in national CFO networks and advisory councils, she actively advances innovation and best practices in financial leadership. Ilana holds degrees from the Wharton School and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.  In this episode… In today's complex business environment, technical skills alone aren't enough for CFOs who want to drive long-term success. The real differentiator comes down to leadership, specifically, how you lead people. According to Ilana Esterrich, a seasoned finance executive and leadership voice, people-first leadership is what defines modern CFO success. She explains that numbers can be corrected quickly, but mishandling people creates lasting scars on trust and morale. Ilana highlights the importance of building resilient teams, nurturing networks, and understanding individual motivations rather than projecting one-size-fits-all career paths. By combining strategic vision with human insight, leaders can create an environment where people thrive and organizations adapt more effectively. In this episode of Level Up, Nick Araco sits down with Ilana Esterrich, Chief Financial Officer at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, to discuss how people-first leadership defines CFO success. They explore why trust and team morale matter more than flawless spreadsheets, how bold career moves can reset your leadership trajectory, and why narrative intelligence is becoming a must-have skill for finance leaders. Ilana also shares advice on building resilient teams and leading with both head and heart.

    42 min

  8. 11/14/2022

    Redefining Handcrafted and Fresh Baked Dog Treats With Kaleb and Kolby Rush

    In March 2020, brothers Kaleb and Kolby Rush lost their internships with the onset of the pandemic. They decided to put their skills and knowledge to good use. Alongside their dad, they spent months perfecting their five-ingredient, human-grade, meat-based dog treat recipes. With a passion for entrepreneurship, a love for dogs, and their unique knowledge of dog treat craftsmanship, Kaleb and Kolby got down to business and co-founded Saint Rocco's Treats. They're focused on opening 15 Saint Rocco's kitchens by 2030. Kaleb Rush is also the Production Manager at Prime Packaging Partners LLC. Kaleb graduated from the Fox School of Business at Temple University with a major in supply chain management and a minor in entrepreneurship, selling skills, and sales operations. He is also the Recruitment Chairman for Delta Chi, where he developed a recruitment strategy and successfully onboarded 20 new members to help grow its colony and build Delta Chi's brand on campus. Kolby Rush sharpened his practical understanding of the business world as an Associate Consultant for Chess Consulting LLC, an Intern at Primerica, and by working for his dad at American Butcher Brand. Kolby received a bachelor's degree from Penn State University with a major in finance and a minor in economics. He also studied abroad in Germany at Pforzheim University, learning business and economics. In this episode… Your four-legged friend has always been there with a gentle nose and a warm heart, so how can you make sure you're catering to your pet's dietary needs? What steps can you take to ensure an authentic consumer experience across various touch points? When Kaleb and Kobly Rush began their dog treat brand, they were certain about one thing — dogs deserve better. By bootstrapping their brand, they control the ingredients that go into each treat, so man's best friend will only get top ingredients. Kaleb and Kolby enhanced their marketing recipe by using a genuine approach to reach their target audience and make a positive impact in their community by donating $1 to local dog rescues for every pound of treats sold. Bring tail wags to your home with this episode.  In this episode of Level Up, Nick Araco is joined by Kaleb and Kolby Rush, Founders of Saint Rocco's Treats, to discuss the commitment and passion behind creating a pet food brand. Together, they talk about launching a human-grade dog food brand, why authenticity has a greater impact on consumers, and why remaining committed to your values is essential.

    44 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

This is the LevelUp Podcast—where finance leaders share real stories, insights, and the connections that move them forward. Tune in to learn, sharpen your edge, and level up together.

Information

  • Creator
    Nick Araco
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    71
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    LevelUp Podcast