FinFactor: Expert Insights for the CFO

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 di...

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 of...

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 b...

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 fo...

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 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 evolvi...

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 consisten...

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 h...

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....

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 cre...

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 f...

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 CO...

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...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch and Gene Hammons discuss selecting and implementing the right ERP system. They cover the crucial roles of training, change management, and internal team engagement for successful implementation. They also touch on managing costs, avoiding implementation fatigue, and the limitations of traditional RFPs. Gene offers insights on cost evaluation, the benefi...

In this episode of FinFactor, host Blaine Bertsch engages in an enlightening conversation with Greg Kautz, CEO of Black Owl Systems, about finance transformation and the significant impact of digital evolution on financial systems post-COVID.  As companies and CPA firms navigate the challenges of moving financial systems online, Greg shares insights from his extensive experience in finance transfo...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch chats with Amanda Mallmes of Mallmes Consulting, a firm specializing in fractional CFO services. They explore the journey from accountant to fractional CFO, and the impact CFOs have on businesses. They also dive into the benefits and best practices for companies considering engaging a fractional CFO.  Amanda shares her unique perspective on understandin...

In this conversation, Blaine Bertsch and David Safeer discuss the myths and flaws in conventional cash flow strategies and emphasize the value of a holistic approach to cash flow management. They highlight the need for accountants and bookkeepers to be curious and cared for in order to improve their clients' financial well-being, as well as the opportunity for accountants and bookkeepers to h...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch and Mike Milan discuss the concept of “the financial gap” and its impact on businesses. They explore the challenges of managing inventory, the importance of optimizing inventory levels, the financial gap in service businesses and the need to maximize revenue by avoiding idle time.  The conversation highlights the significance of understanding “the gap”...