FinPod

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping corporate finance, moving beyond simple automation to become a powerful strategic partner. Discover how AI is fundamentally changing financial decision-making in this Deep Dive episode of Corporate Finance Explained (FinPod).Explore the AI transformation in finance, from AI-powered forecasting and dynamic financial modeling to real-time risk management, intelligent capital allocation, and sophisticated fraud detection. Learn how leading companies like JPMorgan Chase, Unilever, BlackRock, Goldman Sachs, Siemens, Procter & Gamble, and Airbnb are leveraging AI to gain a competitive edge. We also delve into the profound impact artificial intelligence is having on finance careers, redefining the skills and mindset required for the modern, data-driven strategic finance professional.Whether you're in FP&A, Treasury, Investment Banking, or any strategic finance role, understanding AI's impact is crucial. This episode unpacks how to harness the power of AI to think faster, act smarter, and drive lasting impact.

Tune in for expert Cash Flow Management and Liquidity Strategy insights vital for Business Survival and sustainable Business Growth. This Corporate Finance Explained episode delivers essential Corporate Finance principles, focusing on Managing Cash Flow effectively for optimal Financial Health. Learn crucial Financial Management tactics.We analyze Cash Flow Forecasting techniques, strategic Scenario Planning for Finance, and practical Working Capital Optimization. Understand the critical Finance Strategy and Financial Planning differences that separate thriving businesses from those facing Business Failure. Explore why Profitability alone isn't enough without solid Cash Management.Study real-world examples: learn from the Cash Flow Problems leading to failure (Toys R Us, WeWork analysis) and the successful Liquidity Management and Working Capital strategies of industry leaders (Amazon Cash Flow Strategy, Walmart Inventory Management, Apple Cash Reserves). Equip your Finance Team, FP&A Analysts, and Finance Leadership with actionable Financial Analysis and Treasury Management strategies to protect and grow your business.

In this special episode of CFI’s FinPod, we’re joined by our co-founder Scott Powell and founder of “The FP&A Guy,” Paul Barnhurst, to explore how AI, automation, and evolving skill sets reshape careers in FP&A, capital markets, and investment banking.We discuss how tools like ChatGPT are already changing workflows, why Python and Excel are still essential to your skill set, how to stand out in the hiring process, and what finance professionals need to thrive by 2030.

How do investors, analysts, and companies decide what a business is really worth? In this deep dive episode of Corporate Finance Explained on FinPod, we unpack the fundamentals of corporate valuation—from enterprise value vs. equity value to the tools used by top professionals.You’ll learn how to use DCF analysis, comparable company analysis (CCA), and precedent transactions to value a company—and how FP&A teams use these skills internally to guide smart decisions. We also explore the human side of valuation, how Warren Buffett thinks about “intrinsic value,” and why these concepts matter in your life and career. Whether you're in investment banking, FP&A, or just curious about how valuation works, this episode breaks it all down.

Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) shape the corporate landscape, but what makes a deal successful? In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained, we break down the M&A lifecycle, from valuation and financial modeling to financing strategies and post-merger integration.Through real-world case studies—including Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox and Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard—we explore how financial professionals analyze synergies, assess risks, and drive corporate growth through strategic investments. Learn how FP&A teams play a critical role in the integration process and how data-driven insights can make or break an M&A deal.

Thinking of starting your own business after a career in finance or accounting? In this episode of Careers in Finance on FinPod, we talk to Bob Wang—CPA, entrepreneur, former Deloitte leader, and fractional CFO—about his journey from audit to acquisition and everything in between.Bob shares how he built and sold his first accounting firm, the lessons he learned while scaling to 30+ employees, and how he uses his private equity experience to help small businesses grow through M&A. We also dive into the realities of leadership, balancing family and entrepreneurship, and why knowing yourself is the most underrated skill in a finance career.Whether you're in FP&A, public accounting, or considering a career pivot—this episode offers wisdom, strategy, and inspiration from someone who’s done it all.

How do top companies manage their cost of capital for sustainable growth? In this episode, we explore how Tesla, Amazon, and Apple optimize their Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) to make smarter financing and investment decisions.What You’ll Learn:What is WACC & why it matters in corporate financeDebt vs. equity financing – How companies balance funding sourcesHow beta, credit ratings, and market conditions impact WACCReal-world case studies – How Tesla structures financing & how Apple lowers its WACCHow FP&A teams use WACC in valuation, M&A, and capital budgetingProven strategies to reduce WACC and maximize shareholder value

How do major corporations manage billions in cash while minimizing financial risk? In this episode, we explore treasury management strategies used by Apple, Microsoft, and Coca-Cola to handle liquidity, working capital, and funding decisions.Key Topics Covered:How Apple invests in short-term securities to optimize liquidityHow Microsoft moves global cash reserves to lower tax burdensHow Coca-Cola hedges against currency risk to stabilize revenueThe difference between short-term vs. long-term funding strategiesTreasury teams don’t just manage cash—they drive financial strategy. If you’re an FP&A analyst, treasury manager, or finance leader, this episode is packed with real-world insights to help you level up.

In this Member Spotlight episode on FinPod, we meet Flavio Simoncini—an early-career finance professional currently in a three-year graduate program at Ecolab. Based in Kraków, Poland, Flavio shares what it's like to rotate through roles in FP&A, supply chain finance, and commercial finance while navigating the challenges of working closely with top management in a global company.Flavio also opens up about his international education experience in Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands, his passion for languages, and the importance of soft skills like communication and stakeholder management in corporate finance.Whether you're starting your finance career or considering a graduate program in FP&A, this episode offers a grounded, real-world perspective on what it takes to succeed.

How do top companies use FP&A to drive business strategy? In this episode, we break down how Tesla, Netflix, Amazon, and more leverage Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) to optimize corporate decisions.Tesla’s FP&A strategy – How it funds billion-dollar GigafactoriesNetflix’s financial modeling – The numbers behind content funding decisionsAirlines & real-time pricing – How FP&A dynamically adjusts ticket faresAmazon & Walmart’s demand forecasting – How finance predicts seasonal salesFP&A isn’t just about numbers—it’s about making high-impact decisions. If you’re an FP&A professional, analyst, or finance leader, this episode is packed with real-world insights to help you sharpen your strategic finance skills.

In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained, we explore the strategic power of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) in driving business success. From dynamic budgeting to data-driven forecasting and insightful financial analysis, we break down the key pillars of a high-impact FP&A function. Learn how top FP&A teams align financial strategy with execution, leverage real-time data, and integrate technology for smarter decision-making. Plus, discover why agility and continuous learning are critical for finance professionals aiming to stay ahead.Listen now to gain a competitive edge in FP&A!

In this episode of Careers in Finance on FinPod, we sit down with Nicole Lee, a former UBS executive director who navigated a remarkable career transition after 13 years in banking. Discover Nicole's journey from a role at UBS (including the Chief Investment Office in Wealth Management) into the dynamic world of fintech, and ultimately, launching her own coaching business and the "You Never Know" podcast.If you're seeking personal growth or curious about fintech careers, this episode is packed with insights. Nicole shares the challenges and rewards of stepping outside her comfort zone, building new skills in a startup environment, and finding her true purpose in coaching others. This conversation offers valuable perspectives for anyone in finance careers, investment banking, wealth management, or considering a career pivot. Gain inspiration and practical advice on building a fulfilling career aligned with your purpose.

In this episode of FinPod, we introduce our latest course: Making Effective Business Decisions—designed to help FP&A professionals and finance teams evaluate capital investments.We walk through the course structure, including a four-step decision-making framework (idea generation, analysis, planning, and monitoring), NPV, IRR, and Excel Solver to prioritize projects under budget constraints. We also explore how this course differs from enterprise-level valuation training by focusing on granular, real-world decisions faced by FP&A teams—from equipment purchases to growth investments.Whether you're in financial planning and analysis or want to strengthen your strategic finance skills, this episode looks inside one of our most practical new courses.

FP&A Explained: How Financial Planning & Analysis Drives Business StrategyFinancial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) is more than just number crunching—it’s a strategic function that helps businesses plan for the future, optimize decision-making, and drive growth. In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained, we take a deep dive into how FP&A teams forecast, analyze trends, and influence major business decisions.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The fundamentals of FP&A and how it differs from accountingHow FP&A helps companies launch new products, expand markets, and make strategic decisionsReal-world FP&A case studies, including Amazon’s AWS launch and Tesla’s adaptive planningThe key tools and software FP&A professionals use, from Excel to AI-powered forecasting toolsThe role of scenario planning, variance analysis, and driver-based modeling in FP&AHow FP&A teams collaborate with other departments to guide financial strategyThe impact of automation, AI, and real-time forecasting on the future of FP&AEssential skills for FP&A professionals and how to break into the fieldWho Should Listen?✔️ Finance professionals looking to transition into FP&A✔️ Business analysts and data professionals interested in finance roles✔️ Aspiring finance leaders who want to sharpen their strategic thinking skills✔️ Anyone curious about how companies use financial planning to stay ahead

Breaking Into FP&A: How Data, Finance, and Leadership Shape CareersHow do you transition from data analytics into FP&A? What skills make FP&A professionals successful? In this episode of CFI’s Careers in Finance series, we explore how data, finance, and leadership intersect in corporate FP&A, featuring Smith Lordeus, FP&A leader with a background in engineering, data analytics, and finance.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Smith transitioned from data analytics to financeThe growing demand for data-driven finance professionalsHow tools like Excel, SQL, Power BI, and Tableau shape FP&A analysisThe career shift from senior financial analyst to FP&A managerThe importance of storytelling and leadership in finance rolesHow FP&A teams support budgeting, strategy, and decision-makingThe differences between FP&A, corporate development, and M&AKey career advice for aspiring finance professionalsWho Should Listen?Data analysts looking to transition into financeFinance professionals who want to strengthen their FP&A skillsAspiring finance leaders looking for career growth strategiesAnyone curious about the evolving role of FP&A in corporate finance

Debt vs. Equity: How Companies Make Capital Structure DecisionsHow do companies decide between debt and equity financing? Every corporate finance professional needs to understand capital structure—the mix of debt and equity that funds a company's growth, operations, and strategic moves. In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained, we break down the key concepts, trade-offs, and real-world examples of how companies optimize their capital structure.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The fundamentals of capital structure – How companies balance debt and equity financing.Debt vs. Equity: Pros and Cons – The trade-offs and risks of different financing methods.How major companies optimize capital structure:Apple’s debt strategy – Why a cash-rich company still issues corporate bonds.Amazon’s $13.7B Whole Foods acquisition – Using debt instead of equity to fund growth.Tesla’s evolving capital structure – From equity-funded expansion to leveraging debt.Airbnb’s pandemic survival strategy – Choosing debt financing to avoid investor dilution.Key theories behind capital structure – Exploring Pecking Order Theory, Modigliani-Miller Theorem, and the search for an optimal balance.Who Should Listen?Corporate finance professionals managing capital structure decisionsFP&A analysts looking to deepen their understanding of financing strategiesCFOs and investment professionals who advise on corporate funding and debt management

Want to improve your financial modeling skills? This episode of Corporate Finance Explained dives into the essential techniques and best practices used by corporate finance professionals to build accurate, structured, and decision-driven financial models.What You’ll Learn:- What is financial modeling? How companies use it for budgeting, valuation, and risk analysis.- Key components of a financial model – Historical data, assumptions, and financial statements.- Best practices for building strong models – Accuracy, structure, flexibility, and transparency.- Common pitfalls to avoid – Overcomplicated formulas, poor assumptions, and lack of error checks.- Real-world corporate finance examples – Microsoft’s $68.7B acquisition of Activision Blizzard, Airbnb’s pandemic survival strategy, Tesla’s cash flow forecasting, and Apple’s stock buyback program.Whether you're in FP&A, investment banking, private equity, or corporate finance, mastering financial modeling is a critical skill for making data-driven decisions. Learn how to build robust, practical, and strategic models used by top finance teams worldwide.#FinancialModeling #CorporateFinance #FinanceTips #BusinessStrategy #InvestmentBanking #FP&A #Microsoft #Tesla #Apple #Amazon #CFI

How to Build a Career in FP&A | Finance Jobs, Skills & Growth InsightsFinancial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) is one of the fastest-growing fields in finance, but many professionals don’t fully understand what the role entails. In this episode of CFI's Careers in Finance series, we sit down with Mimi Hu, Director of Trade Finance & Marketing, to explore what FP&A professionals actually do, how to break into the field, and the skills that drive success in corporate finance.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How networking and coffee chats open doors in financeWhat FP&A professionals actually do (beyond just budgeting!)The difference between FP&A and investment banking career pathsEssential skills for FP&A success, from Excel to financial storytellingHow FP&A teams support corporate strategy and M&A decisionsThe impact of economic trends, tariffs, and retail margins on FP&AThe best software tools for FP&A professionals (Excel, Power BI, SAP)Why This Episode Matters:FP&A is more than just number crunching—it’s about business partnership, strategic planning, and driving financial insights. Whether you're a finance student, an analyst looking to transition, or exploring leadership roles in corporate finance, this episode provides real-world insights and career advice from an experienced FP&A leader.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why FP&A is a top finance career choice01:34 – The role of networking & coffee chats in finance career growth02:30 – Understanding what FP&A professionals actually do06:21 – How careers evolve in finance, accounting, and strategy09:07 – From startups to corporate finance: Mimi’s journey15:46 – How economic trends impact FP&A decision-making25:22 – How FP&A teams partner with corporate development & M&A teams30:34 – Essential skills for FP&A professionals40:20 – Best software for FP&A analysts (Excel, Power BI, SAP)45:34 – The future of FP&A and career growth opportunitiesResources & Links Mentioned:Learn more about CFI’s FP&A courses → https://cfi.to/uh9DNLinkedIn → Corporate Finance Institute®Instagram → @corporatefinanceinstituteSubscribe & Never Miss an Episode!Join us for expert insights on finance, FP&A, and financial modeling every week.#FP&A #FinanceCareers #FinancialModeling #CorporateFinance #CFILearning #FinanceJobs #Networking

🎙 Mastering FP&A 3-Statement ModelingBuilding a 3-statement financial model is a critical skill for finance professionals, but many struggle to get their models to balance. In this episode of What’s New at CFI on FinPod, we break down CFI’s latest course: FP&A 3-Statement Modeling—designed to help finance professionals build structured, scalable models with confidence.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Key differences between FP&A-style 3-statement modeling and investment banking modelsHow monthly forecasting adds complexity and how to manage it effectivelyThe relationship between cash flow and balance sheet that ensures model accuracyA step-by-step approach to troubleshooting and balancing financial modelsHow this course helps finance professionals apply best practices in real-world scenariosWhy This Matters:Whether you’re an FP&A analyst, finance manager, or corporate finance professional, mastering 3-statement modeling is a must-have skill. This episode explores real-world applications, shares common pitfalls, and introduces a systematic approach to ensure model accuracy.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why 3-statement modeling is essential for FP&A 01:19 – Common challenges in balancing financial models 02:23 – What makes this FP&A-focused course unique 04:36 – Industry focus: The consulting company case study 06:21 – Practical takeaways for finance professionals 08:43 – The #1 mistake in 3-statement modeling (and how to fix it)Resources & Links Mentioned:Learn more about CFI’s FP&A courses → https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/Follow us for finance insights → https://www.linkedin.com/school/corporate-finance-institute-cfi/ | https://www.instagram.com/corporatefinanceinstitute/Subscribe & Never Miss an EpisodeJoin us for weekly expert insights on finance, FP&A, and financial modeling.#FinancialModeling #FPandA #CorporateFinance #CFILearning #FinanceCareers

In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained, we break down the fundamentals of financial statement analysis—a vital skill for corporate finance professionals, investors, and business leaders.We start by exploring the three core financial statements:Income Statement – Reveals a company's profitability by detailing revenues and expenses over a specific period.Balance Sheet – Provides a snapshot of the company’s financial position, outlining assets, liabilities, and shareholders’ equity.Cash Flow Statement – Tracks cash inflows and outflows to assess liquidity and financial stability.Next, we dive into key analysis techniques, including:Ratio Analysis – Evaluates profitability, efficiency, and solvency using financial ratios.Trend Analysis – Identifies patterns over multiple periods to assess financial trajectory.Vertical & Horizontal Analysis – Helps compare financial data as percentages or across different timeframes for better context.Key Takeaways:Understanding financial statements is crucial for assessing a company’s financial health.Applying analysis techniques like ratio and trend analysis uncovers insights into profitability, liquidity, and efficiency.Regular financial statement analysis enables better decision-making for both internal teams and external stakeholders.

In this episode of CFI's podcast, Ayesha Zain shares her inspiring journey from a background in public administration and philosophy to her current role in venture capital. She discusses the importance of mentorship, her experience with CFI's FMVA program, and the challenges of breaking into the finance industry. Ayesha emphasizes the value of networking, both in-person and through social media, and shares her aspirations for the future, including her non-profit organization aimed at helping young Indonesians gain international education and life experience. In recognition of International Women's Day, Ayesha’s story highlights the power of resilience, learning, and taking bold steps to forge a path in finance. The conversation concludes with her advice for those looking to pursue their dreams in finance and beyond.

In this episode of What's New at CFI, Meeyeon and Ryan Spendelow discuss the importance of stakeholder management in various professional settings, especially in the context of remote work. They explore how stakeholder management has evolved with the rise of virtual teams, the significance of understanding stakeholder expectations, common mistakes finance professionals make, and strategies for managing difficult stakeholders. The conversation emphasizes the broader impact of these skills on career advancement and personal development.

In this episode, Ahmed Aboushady takes us through his extensive career in risk management, from his education in Cairo to professional experiences in Los Angeles, the UK, and his current role at the Ontario Securities Commission.He reflects on the impact of the 2007 financial crisis, the importance of mentorship, and the need for continuous learning in an ever-evolving industry. Throughout the conversation, Ahmed shares valuable career lessons, highlighting the adaptability and resilience required to navigate the world of finance and risk management.

In this conversation, Meeyeon and Ryan discuss collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs), exploring their structure, relevance, and the impact of the Global Financial Crisis. They delve into the customization of CMOs for different investor risk profiles and the role of special purpose vehicles (SPVs) in isolating mortgage assets. The discussion highlights the importance of financial education in understanding these complex financial products and their evolution since the financial crisis.

In this episode of CFI's Member Spotlight Podcast, Meeyeon sits down with Francis Faucher to discuss his unconventional path into finance. Originally aspiring to be a doctor, Francis discovered his passion for finance through networking and education, ultimately embracing an entrepreneurial mindset that shaped his career.He shares his experiences, from his first banking job to becoming a financial planner and, eventually, a successful entrepreneur and fractional CFO. Francis offers insights into financial independence, the challenges of starting a business, and the realities of running a consultancy. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the power of networking, the importance of building genuine relationships, and the lessons he's learned about curiosity, resilience, and overcoming failure.

In this episode, Logan Burchett, co-founder and COO of Forecaster, shares his unexpected career path—from aspiring lawyer to finance professional to entrepreneur. Initially set on law, he discovered a passion for economics and finance in college, which led him to work as a financial analyst and later at a pension fund. His time at Venture First sparked an interest in venture capital, ultimately inspiring him to co-found Forecastr, a company revolutionizing financial modeling. Logan discusses the future of financial modeling, predicting a shift away from Excel and encouraging finance professionals to embrace emerging tools and trends. Throughout the conversation, he highlights the power of curiosity, adaptability, and continuous learning in an ever-evolving industry.

In this episode of What’s New at CFI, Ryan is joined by Jeff Schmidt to introduce CFI’s latest course, Accounting for Inventory. They discuss the importance of inventory accounting across industries, covering key methods such as Weighted Average, FIFO (First In, First Out), and LIFO (Last In, First Out). Jeff explains how different inventory accounting choices impact financial statements, profitability, and tax obligations—especially for U.S. companies under GAAP versus those following IFRS. The course dives into critical skills for financial analysts, including understanding LIFO disclosures and adjusting financial statements for global comparisons. Whether you're new to inventory accounting or refining your expertise, this course provides essential knowledge to navigate complex financial reporting. Watch now to learn more!

In this episode of CFI's Member Spotlight, Nigel Rayford shares his inspiring journey into the finance world, detailing his educational background, career progression, and the impact of COVID-19 on his professional life. He discusses his experiences at Nationwide and Goldman Sachs, his current role at Texas Capital Bank, and the importance of mentorship and representation in the finance industry. Nigel also shares his aspirations, including his dream of owning an NBA team and his commitment to helping others navigate their careers in corporate America.

In this episode, Meeyeon, Jeff, and Duncan discuss the newly launched specialization in Investment Banking and Private Equity (IB and PE) at CFI. Join us as we explore the reasons behind the popularity of these fields, the misconceptions surrounding private equity, and the essential skills required for success in both areas.

In this episode of Careers in Finance, we learn that sometimes it takes a little bit of grit. Susanne Swaniker, Group Financial Controller at De Beers, takes us through her career journey that started with asking for a meeting with a Deloitte Partner and asking for what she wanted: an auditing job. Her career journey is equal parts organic and purposeful pursuit. Susanne is the epitome of a continuous learner, and her many academic and career achievements make her actions speak louder than words. Join us as Susanne shares her unique story from audit to leadership.

In this episode of What's New at CFI, we sit down with Ryan Spendelow to discuss the newly launched Risk Management specialization. We explore the essential types of financial and non-financial risks covered in the courses, the relevance of emerging topics like ESG and cybersecurity, and how completing the specialization can enhance job performance and open up career opportunities in finance. Overall, the conversation highlights the growing importance of risk management in the financial sector and the skills needed to navigate this evolving landscape.

In this episode of CFI's FinPod podcast, we sit down with Dang Duong, a young finance enthusiast from Singapore. Join us as we talk about Dang's journey into finance, his education at Polytechnic, and his self-driven learning through CFI courses. Dang shares insights from his internship at Julius Baer and outlines his aspirations in investment banking and quantitative finance. The conversation highlights the importance of practical skills and early career planning in the finance industry and is overall an inspiring conversation with a very ambitious person

In today's Member Spotlight, I get to sit down with someone who can't sit still in the absolute best of ways. Antowan has done a little bit of everything, and it's all been driven by his curious nature and love of economics. It only takes a few minutes to understand what the power of curiosity and a genuine desire to learn can do for someone's career.From an apprenticeship as an electrician to transitioning into healthcare and eventually landing in logistics, Antowan's journey is a testament to the power of adaptability. His academic pursuit in economics combined with his hands-on experience in finance, systems analysis, and logistics, has shaped him into the versatile professional he is today. Currently working as a system analyst at Dollar Tree, he’s taken on projects that leverage both his financial and technical skills, all while continuing to grow academically with an MBA and FMVA certification.Tune in as Antowan shares how his unique path has shaped his success and how he’s used continuous learning to unlock new opportunities.

In this episode of Careers in Finance on FinPod, we chat with Chris Stanley, an experienced finance professional turned successful business founder, about his journey to where he is today.During this episode, Chris shares how he has found that leaning into the network you have at an early age, no matter how big or small, is the best way to scale your career. He studied Economics at Yale University and landed his first job in Sales and Trading at Nomura in New York. He credits this experience with establishing the hustle, work ethic, and resilience required to be an entrepreneur. Today, Chris is the Founder of Patterns.app and is passionate about leveraging AI to boost productivity and accuracy and transform the workflow of financial accounting in today's data-driven world. Join us as we chat through all of this and more.

In this episode of Careers in Finance, we have an insightful conversation with Bill Dillmeier, exploring his unique career journey in finance. Bill shares his intentional path into finance, starting from a young age, influenced by his entrepreneurial grandfather. He discusses his educational background, early entrepreneurial ventures, and the pivotal role of mentorship in shaping his career. The conversation delves into Bill's experiences at Vanguard and Morgan Stanley, his transition into mortgage banking, and the importance of finding balance in a fast-paced career. Last but not least, Bill touches on something we often don't think about: the evolution of our professional passion.

In this episode of What’s New at CFI, we are talking about a course that is going to help make everyone's job a little bit easier. The course itself may be in the context of financial statement analysis, but in today's world, everything is data-driven, and in turn, so is almost every job. Spend some time with Glenn as he talks about what AI can do, what it is best at, and how we can interact with it now that generative AI gives the layperson a friendly user interface.If you want to learn and practice how to make your working day a little easier, this is a course you don't want to miss.

In this episode of Careers in Finance, we sit down with Ben Murray, known as the SaaS CFO, who shares his unique career journey from customer service in a mutual fund company to becoming a fractional CFO and entrepreneur. Ben discusses his early experiences in finance, the transition from traditional industries like airlines and healthcare tech to the SaaS model, and the importance of understanding metrics and operations in finance. He emphasizes the need for attention to detail, the role of RevOps, and the current trends in SaaS, including the focus on efficiency and profitability. Ben also offers valuable advice for aspiring finance professionals.

In this episode of What's New at CFI, you have the whole gang: Ryan Spendelow, Duncan McKeen, Jeff Schmidt, and Sebastian Taylor. We all took part in creating this course that deeply resonates with a major reason why people come to CFI: to learn about career paths in finance and banking and the skills required. This course is different - it does not talk about roles in isolation but rather places them into the context of a real-life business' evolution. If you're not sure what that means, here's all the more reason to join us and listen to this podcast.

In today's episode of What's New at CFI, join us as we talk about the G in ESG. Our latest ESG offering is a mini module of three courses with a module dedicated to each of environmental, social and governance issues and financial materiality.Today, we focus on governance issues – which are arguably the most important. Why? without proper governance, how could anything be actioned?

In today's episode of What's New at CFI, join us as we talk all about the S in ESG. Our latest ESG offering is a mini module of three courses with a module dedicated to each of environmental, social and governance issues and financial materiality. Today we focus on what social issues are and how they can pose potential risks and opportunities for investors and business operators alike.

In today's episode of What's New at CFI, join us as we talk all about the E in ESG. Our latest ESG offering is a mini module of three courses with a module dedicated to each of environmental, social and governance issues and financial materiality. Today we kick things off by talking about environmental issues, which are often the most tangible and readily understood amongst ESG topics. In our discussion, we talk about how they can pose potential risks and opportunities for investors and business operators alike.

In this episode of Careers in Finance on FinPod, we sit down with Eric Mason, CFO of the City of Quincy, to explore his journey into municipal finance. Eric shares how his background as an economist, economic advisor, and chief analyst prepared him to take on the CFO role during the pandemic, leading his team through uncertainty with resilience and innovation. His story is a testament to the power of adaptability and continuous learning in finance.Eric dives into his groundbreaking initiatives, including leading the first blockchain bond in U.S. municipal finance, and explains how public finance can drive transparency, innovation, and community impact. From maximizing taxpayer dollars to embracing new technology, Eric offers practical insights and inspiration for finance professionals and public service enthusiasts alike.

In today's episode of What's New at CFI, we are talking about one of your favorite topics: Mergers and Acquisitions, or better known as, M&A! We're so excited to be bringing you a more bite-sized course on the topic so join us as we talk about how we've tailored this course and what you can expect to learn.

In this episode of CFI Member Spotlight on FinPod, we speak with CFI member Devrhoid Davis, who shares how following his passion and pursuing what made him curious led him from medical radiation physics to finance. During the episode, Devrhoid shares his unconventional path into finance and how he finds himself in a full-circle moment today as he aspires to find a business in robotic prosthetics. From his academic studies in medical physics to multiple roles in capital markets, Devrhoid discusses how his unique path now empowers him to be able to pursue entrepreneurship with more than just a great idea but, moreover, a sharp business acumen. With his background in capital markets, Devrhoid speaks to the importance of understanding the financing of a business and how he does and plans to further give back to the small/medium business owners of his native Jamaica's economy.

It's not about the extraordinary, it's about making it ordinary. In this episode we talk about our Normalizing Income Statements course where we spotlight the importance of making company income statements reflect their true underlying profitability by adjusting for any one-off or non-recurring events that make profits look more volatile than they really are.

In this episode of Careers in Finance, we sit down with Co-Founder of CFI, Scott Powell. If you are familiar with CFI, then you will know Scott as an instructor and coach. But today, he's showing you a different side as he shares his personal career journey. Join us as Scott shares how finding his passion was a process of elimination, and how his full circle career roots his deep passion for mentorship. During this episode, Scott talks about how he wanted his very first job to be in investment banking, but his parents strongly encouraged him to go into Accounting (thanks, Mom and Dad!). But every step has a purpose, and it's through earning his CPA and his time at EY that he found his passion for teaching, and specifically adult education in Investment Banking and Capital Markets. While there is no surprise where his career takes him in the end, Scott's journey demonstrates why the in-between is what makes life so interesting.

Data analysis has had some immense benefits with the introduction of ChatGPT. A great deal of the 'heavy lifting' can be done with ChatGPT, but it takes a bit of getting used to in order to take advantage of it. Try it out with our course on how to use ChatGPT for data analysis.

In this episode of Careers in Finance on FinPod, we welcome back Ashok Manthena, founder of Chatfin.ai and finance analytics expert. Ashok shares insights on how generative AI is impacting finance—from FP&A to tax and treasury—by automating tasks like reconciliation and variance analysis. We discuss how AI is improving data access, enhancing forecasting accuracy, and enabling real-time analysis, creating game-changing efficiencies for finance teams. Ashok also explains the hurdles to AI adoption, particularly team readiness for automation, and offers practical advice on leveraging AI tools like Chatfin.ai for finance professionals, especially those working with Excel. Tune in as we discuss what a future landscape driven by AI looks like.

In this episode of What’s New at CFI on FinPod, we discuss operational risk management in banks, breaking down its four main dimensions: people, processes, systems, and external events. Operational risk stands apart from other risks like credit or market risk, affecting banks uniquely due to strict regulatory standards, particularly those outlined in the Basel Accord. We discuss why these risks are so significant for banks today and how failures in operational risk management often lead to high-profile fines and industry-wide consequences.Listeners will gain insights into why operational risk is one of the top challenges banks face and how our new course dives deep into real-world examples and strategies to manage these risks effectively. This episode is a must-listen for those curious about the complex landscape banks navigate, offering a clear understanding of operational risk and the tools needed to manage it.

In this episode of the Careers in Finance on FinPod, James M. Binsfeld shares his story as a leader at the Chicago Teachers' Pension Fund, where he manages U.S. equities and private credit. With a background at Wells Fargo, Bank of America, NASDAQ, and WestPath Investment Management, James brings a wealth of knowledge from across the finance world and a hands-on understanding of how large funds work.This episode is packed with real-world advice from a seasoned finance pro. Tune in for James’ insights on topics like the role of private credit in diversifying portfolios, the importance of continuous learning, and his advice for anyone starting a finance career.