FinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFO

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Bob Light to unpack the challenges of implementing financial software systems. They explore why understanding internal processes and pain points is critical before selecting a system, and how involving stakeholders early can lead to smoother adoption. 

Bob and Blaine highlight the importance of choosing the right project champion, setting realistic timelines, and embracing ...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Ben Taylor, CEO of SoftLedger, to explore the growing complexities of accounting in multi-entity organizations. Ben unpacks the operational and financial challenges that surface as businesses scale, especially when relying on outdated systems or manual processes. 

Together, they discuss the critical need for consolidated reporting, efficient intercompany cash mana...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch speaks with Scott Hollrah, CEO of Venn Technology, about the often-overlooked challenges finance teams face when working with fragmented data across ERPs, CRMs, and other systems. Scott shares real-world examples of how manual processes bog down efficiency and limit CFOs from making timely, informed decisions. The conversation highlights the critical role of automation, integration, and ...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch welcomes Greg McDonough, Managing Partner at Blackburn Capital and seasoned financial coach, to discuss why clean, consistent financial data is the cornerstone of smart business decisions. Greg shares his experience working with entrepreneurs who often operate on instinct instead of insights, highlighting how this can lead to poor cash flow management and missed opportunities. 

The conver...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch is joined by lease accounting expert Greg Kautz to dive into the evolving landscape of lease management. They unpack the growing complexities introduced by new accounting standards, the ongoing reliance on spreadsheets, and the shortcomings of traditional ERP systems. Greg offers practical insights on how CFOs can improve accuracy, streamline reporting, and boost efficiency by embracing ...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch is joined by Adam Katz for a deep dive into the world of foreign exchange and B2B payments. They explore the payment challenges that CFOs face—from hidden FX fees and inefficiencies to the importance of data and building relationships with FX providers. Adam shares expert insights on how businesses can navigate the evolving payments landscape, including the growing role of AI, the promis...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch and Mike Shum dive into the evolving world of private credit and debt financing, shedding light on the challenges businesses face in securing debt and managing financial data. They explore the critical role of transparency, the increasing complexity of debt structures, and how technology—specifically Cascade—enhances data accuracy and reporting. 

The discussion highlights asset-based lend...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine sits down with Morgan Hines to explore the significant impact of travel expenses on small and medium-sized businesses. They dive into the hidden costs of corporate travel management, from human error in booking to missed savings due to lack of access to corporate travel tools. 

Morgan highlights how Navan is leveling the playing field for small businesses by offering streamlined travel management...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch and Sam Gupta dive deep into the intricacies of ERP implementation, a transformative journey that requires meticulous planning, stakeholder engagement, and strategic alignment. They discuss the pivotal role of CFOs in ensuring ERP projects address both financial and operational needs, emphasizing phase zero planning, change management, and the careful balancing of internal and external r...

Join Blaine Bertsch and Usman Mahmood as they dive into the essential groundwork for harnessing AI in business. This episode of FinFactor uncovers why a solid data structure and organizational data maturity are critical before adopting AI technologies. 

Usman and Blaine break down data maturity stages, highlight AI's transformative role in enhancing efficiency, and outline actionable steps for organizations to embark ...

In this engaging episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Jonathon Angell to unpack the world of innovative strategies for fundraising and financing in business. They explore diverse financing options, the impact of partnerships, and the importance of networking and relationships in securing funding. 

They dive into the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions, the power of storytelling in business, and the nuanced expecta...

In this conversation, Blaine Bertsch and Keith Daser discuss the complexities and challenges that mid-market businesses face when integrating technology solutions. They explore the importance of engaging IT consulting professionals at the right time, the significance of communication during technology purchases, and the lessons learned from past mistakes. 

The discussion also highlights the evolving role of specialists and generalis...

In this conversation, Blaine Bertsch interviews Apoorv Dwivedi of fixer.com about marketing strategies for CPA firms. Apoorv specializes in marketing for small and mid-sized accounting firms and helps them improve their lead-generation efforts. They discuss the importance of focusing on a specific target audience and service offering, building reputation and authority, and implementing a consistent marketing plan. 

They also highlig...

In this conversation, Blaine Bertsch and Jennifer Warawa discuss innovative financing solutions for small businesses, particularly focusing on payment options available to clients of accounting firms. They explore the differences in market approaches between Australia and the US, the role of CPAs as trusted advisors, and the underwriting process involved in offering payment plans. The discussion highlights the benefits of these fin...

Wesley Hartman, founder of Automata Practice Development, discusses the implementation of automation in CPA firms. He explains that his company builds custom automation specific to accounting firms, focusing on areas such as client onboarding, tax return processes, and document management. 

Wesley emphasizes that automation can help increase capacity and reallocate time to more value-driven tasks. He suggests that firms of all sizes...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch interviews Michael Haynes, a business growth expert, about helping CPA firms grow. They discuss the importance of understanding how clients buy accounting services and the need for a go-to-market strategy that aligns with clients' needs. 

Michael emphasizes the value of delivering advice, insights, and recommendations to clients through content creation and strategic collaborations. ...

Ed Patton from PattonTrendr discusses the five elements of financial fundamentals that businesses need to understand: cash flow, operating earnings, financial strength, value, and borrowing capacity. He emphasizes the importance of having visibility into these elements to get a holistic view of the business's financial situation.

Catch every episode of FinFactor, where we interview CFOs and finance professionals to uncover the ...

In this Episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch, CEO of Dryrun interviews Jonathan Lacasse of Lacasse Advisory Services about the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the current market, the importance of understanding business valuations, and the need for due diligence in buy-side and sell-side transactions. They also touch on the impact of COVID-19 on businesses and the import...

In this episode of FinFactor, host Blaine Bertsch sits down with FP&A expert Christian Wattig to explore the evolution from basic Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) to a strategic role that influences corporate strategy. They dive into the crucial steps businesses must take for this transition, emphasizing the importance of establishing dedicated FP&A teams as companies expand. The conversation highlights the challe...