Future Finance

Joe Friedman, Senior Director of AI Innovation at Oracle NetSuite, and Ranga Bodla, VP of Field Engagement and Marketing, dive into AI’s transformative impact on ERP systems. They discuss NetSuite's robust position amidst competitors and detail the MCP connector that integrates AI agents like ChatGPT. The duo highlights practical uses of AI in finance, including anomaly detection and automated reconciliations. They stress the importance of clean ERP data for optimal AI outcomes and share steps for businesses to initiate AI projects without significant risks.

In this episode, Paul sits down with renowned data strategist Khaled Chowdhury to unpack what it means to bring clarity to data in the age of AI. With a background in FP&A and a track record as an early Power BI adopter, Khaled brings a rare blend of financial and technical expertise. The conversation explores the concept of "data clarity," the challenges behind AI adoption in business, and why clean data models matter more than ever.Khaled Chowdhury is a globally recognized expert in data strategy and the founder of Data Crafters. With roots in FP&A, Khaled was among the first to integrate Power BI into planning workflows. Today, he helps executives and teams transition from data chaos to clarity, particularly as AI transforms the business landscape.Expect to Learn:What “data clarity” really means and why it matters for business decisions.The two big barriers preventing organizations from becoming data-driven.What the “AI paradox” is and why 95% of enterprise AI projects fail.Why your data model is the hidden make-or-break factor in using AI tools.How to think about probabilistic vs. deterministic results in AI systems.Khaled Chowdhury and Paul Barnhurst offer a thought-provoking exploration of how data and AI are reshaping decision-making in the modern enterprise. From breaking down the myths of being data-driven to unpacking the AI paradox, their conversation highlights the growing need for clean data, smart models, and strategic thinking.Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:Follow Khaled Chowdhury:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khaledchowdhury/Follow Paul: LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture 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:[01:44] -  Defining Data Clarity and the Cost of Chaos[04:05] - Data-Informed Gut vs. Data-Driven Myths[06:54] - The AI Paradox Explained[09:18] - Why AI Projects Fail in the Enterprise[13:33] - Clean Data Models: No Hiding Behind Lipstick[14:26] - Closing Thoughts & What’s Next

In this episode of Future Finance, host Paul Barnhurst speaks with data expert Khaled Chowdhury, a renowned leader in the data and AI space. Khaled shares his journey from finance to data analytics, offering insights into the evolving role of AI in business decisions, the importance of data clarity, and how tools like Power BI and Fabric are transforming the data landscape. Khaled’s approach to data clarity in the age of AI brings a fresh perspective to the conversation on how companies can leverage data to make better, faster decisions.Khaled Chowdhury is a data expert and founder of Data Crafters, helping businesses, especially in finance, build clear data strategies in the age of AI. With a background in FP&A, Khaled’s unique journey spans from finance director to certified data professional, with expertise in tools like Power BI and Fabric. He’s been recognized globally for his contributions to the data world, empowering organizations to make data-driven decisions. Khaled’s experience bridges finance, technology, and business leadership.In this episode, you will discover:Khaled’s journey from finance to data analytics and AIThe importance of data clarity and the common mistakes companies makeWhy AI and data-driven decisions require a strong foundationHow AI can both enhance and challenge business decision-makingPractical advice on how companies should prioritize AI investments and data managementKhaled Chowdhury highlights the importance of building a solid data foundation before diving into AI and advanced tools like Power BI and Fabric. His journey from finance to data leadership demonstrates how clarity, smart data strategies, and a focus on outcomes can transform decision-making. Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:Follow Khaled:LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/khaledchowdhury/Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture 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:[02:12] – Khaled’s Journey: From Finance to Data[06:10] – Defining Data Clarity[10:15] – The AI Paradox[14:42] – The Power of Power BI and Fabric[18:30] – The Data Maturity Curve[22:05] – How Companies Should Invest in AI[25:03] – The Future of Data and AI[29:12] – The AI Chatbot Question[34:25] – Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts from Khaled

In this special episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper explore how AI agents and productivity tools like Excel’s newest features are transforming the finance function. They contrast grassroots, employee-led innovation with large-scale, enterprise-driven AI projects, offering practical guidance and examples from their own experiments.Expect to Learn:The difference between top-down and bottom-up AI deployments in organizationsWhy “shadow AI” and “secret cyborgs” are redefining workplace productivityThe crucial role of change management in enterprise AI adoptionWhat Excel’s new AI agent can (and can’t) do for financial modelingGlenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst deliver an insightful look into how AI is reshaping the finance profession, from enterprise-wide transformations to individual experimentation. Their discussion on agents, automation, and Excel’s evolving capabilities highlights how innovation and adaptability are redefining what it means to be a modern finance leader in a technology-driven world.Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul: LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture 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:[00:22] - Top-Down vs Bottom-Up AI Adoption & Excel Agents[01:26] - Building a Personal AI Agent[04:01] - Top-Down vs Bottom-Up AI Strategy Explained[06:41] - Change Management in AI Projects[08:42] - Bottom-Up AI: Enable Use, Ensure Safety[11:10] - Excel’s 40th Anniversary[17:13] - Evaluating Excel's DCF Output[18:23] - Final Thoughts and Takeaways

In this special episode of Future Finance, your hosts, Glenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst, explore how artificial intelligence is making waves in the finance world. They explore two distinct approaches to AI adoption: top-down initiatives, driven by company leadership, and bottom-up strategies, where employees are introducing AI tools on their own. Glenn and Paul also discuss the latest AI tools in Microsoft Excel, including AI agents, and how they’re transforming financial modeling and decision-making. Tune in for a mix of practical advice, real-world experiences, and a bit of humor along the way.In this episode, you will discover:How top-down and bottom-up AI adoption strategies differ in business.Why employee-driven AI innovation is on the rise and how to manage it.The role of AI-powered tools like Excel Labs in transforming financial work.How AI agents can help upskill finance professionals and streamline tasks.Glenn and Paul explore the evolving role of AI in finance, from top-down strategies to employee-driven innovation. They highlight the potential of AI tools like Excel Labs and AI agents to transform financial processes. Tune in for insights on how embracing AI can help professionals stay ahead in a rapidly changing field.Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture 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:[05:17] - Glenn’s New Book for Wiley[08:21] - The AI Budget Mandate[12:11] - Managing Bottom-Up AI Adoption[15:39] - The Carol Office Question[26:00] - Why Use Hard-Coded XLOOKUP?[29:56] - Building and Customizing an AI Agent[36:36] - Career Transitions and AI in FP&A[39:50] - Final Thoughts and Wrapping Up

In this episode, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper discuss the realities behind the AI hype cycle and how it's playing out in finance, from inflated ROI expectations to unscalable AI tools and organizational chaos, Paul and Glenn unpack what’s working, what’s failing, and why so many companies are stuck. With no guest this week, the duo shares their honest takes on the state of AI, its practical limits in financial workflows, and how companies are fumbling both bottom-up adoption and top-down implementation. This one’s a mix of hot takes, technical insight, and just enough despair to keep things real.In this episode, you will discover:How bottom-up AI adoption is outpacing executive-led rollouts in finance.The problem with inflated expectations and what’s really causing AI project failures.Why Excel tools powered by AI are promising, but limited by context windows.How governance and data issues are crippling enterprise AI strategies.What OpenAI, Oracle, Nvidia, and Microsoft’s latest moves mean for the AI landscape.AI isn’t a magic solution; it’s a powerful tool that still depends on good data, realistic goals, and a bit of patience. Paul and Glenn make it clear that while the hype is loud, real progress takes thoughtful implementation and education. The future of AI in finance looks promising, but only for teams willing to do the work.Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture 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:[01:56] - AI Hype Cycle Meltdown[04:50] - AI Tools in Excel[07:33] - Bottom-Up vs Top-Down Adoption[11:33] - Why AI Projects Fail[14:38] - Change Management Gaps[17:23] - Context Window Limitations[20:30] - Learn the Basics of AI[23:11] - Oracle, Nvidia & OpenAI Deals[30:07] - Microsoft Adds Anthropic to Copilot[34:24] - Copilot Improvement & Wrap-Up

In this episode of Future Finance, Hosts Glenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst sit down with Franz Faerber, Co-founder and CTO of Everest Systems, and one of the key minds behind SAP HANA. Franz shares his remarkable journey from leading SAP’s real-time database revolution to building Everest, a next-generation ERP platform designed from the ground up to embrace AI and modern business needs. Franz Faerber is the Co-founder and CTO of Everest Systems, a next-gen AI-native ERP company. Before Everest, Franz spent over 26 years at SAP, where he served as Executive VP of Technology and was the original architect behind SAP HANA, one of the most advanced in-memory databases in the world. His work helped transform data processing and analytics for thousands of global enterprises. Now, at Everest, he is on a mission to revolutionize ERP from the ground up, embracing AI and agile development to tackle the inefficiencies of traditional systems.In this episode, you will discover:Why the ERP space is finally ready for disruption, and how Everest is leading that charge.How Everest built a fully functional inventory management system in just four months without writing a single line of code.The role of AI in accelerating ERP development, reducing costs, and enabling mass personalization.Why Franz believes the future of ERP lies in integration, automation, and adaptability.Franz Faerber’s insights offer a compelling vision for the future of ERP, one where AI, speed, and simplicity are no longer optional but essential. His journey from SAP HANA to Everest showcases what’s possible when innovation meets experience. Follow Franz:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/franz-faerber/Company -  https://everest-systems.comJoin hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture 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:[02:18] - Meet Franz Faerber[03:53] - The SAP HANA Revolution[09:00] - Leaving SAP for Everest[10:39] - Why Build a New ERP?[18:36] - Dev & Release Cycles at Everest[21:20] - What Sets Everest Apart[25:48] - Leadership & Vision[29:32] - Chess, Books & Strategy[33:20] - Final Thoughts

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper welcome Jeff Seibert, CEO and founder of Digits, a cutting-edge accounting platform. Jeff shares how Digits is transforming the finance world by automating accounting workflows and providing real-time visibility into financial data. He explains how integrating modern technology into the general ledger (GL) and other accounting processes is streamlining the financial close and eliminating inefficiencies that have long been part of traditional systems.Jeff Seibert is the founder and CEO of Digits, a groundbreaking accounting platform. Previously, he was Twitter's Head of Consumer Product and appeared in the Emmy-winning Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma. Jeff co-founded Crashlytics, acquired by Twitter in 2013 and now owned by Google. A self-taught programmer, he started coding at 13 and graduated from Stanford with a B.S. in Computer Science. Jeff is also an angel investor in over 100 startups and was named one of Insider’s Top 100 Seed VCs.Expect to Learn:The difference between traditional and AI-native accounting systemsHow Digits uses machine learning for near-perfect transaction classificationWhy legacy systems struggle with AI and how Digits solves itHow predictive models enable real-time financial insightsJeff’s predictions on AI’s future in finance, automation, and reconciliationJeff Seibert provides a fascinating insight into the future of finance, showcasing how AI can transform the accounting space from a slow and manual process to one that’s fast, predictive, and automated. His journey from self-taught programmer to CEO of a company revolutionizing accounting highlights the power of innovation in today’s tech-driven world.Follow Jeff:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jseibert/Website - https://jeffseibert.com/Company - https://digits.com/Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul: LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture 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:[00:00] - Introduction to Jeff Seibert[02:25] - What Inspired Jeff to Start Digits[05:24] - How Did Jeff Overcome the Data Gap[08:11] - Did You Expect the Digits Timeline[12:38] - AI Agents in Classification[16:50] - The Future of Real-Time Accounting[18:43] - Wrapping Up with Jeff Seibert

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Glenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst are joined by Jeff Seibert, founder and CEO of Digits. Jeff shares his journey from creating his first app at the age of 13 to building Digits, a platform that’s changing the way businesses approach accounting. With a background in tech and a passion for solving real-world problems, Jeff explains how his frustration with outdated financial systems led to the creation of Digits, which now provides real-time financial data to businesses.Jeff Seibert is the founder and CEO of Digits, an innovative accounting platform that helps businesses manage their finances with real-time insights. Before starting Digits, Jeff co-founded Crashlytics, a mobile performance analytics company that was acquired by Twitter in 2013. He went on to lead Twitter's consumer product team and later appeared in the Emmy Award-winning Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma. A self-taught programmer, Jeff has been a part of the startup world for years and has invested in over 100 companies, earning recognition as one of Insider's Top 100 Seed VCs.In this episode, you will discover:How Jeff’s passion for coding started at age 13.The story behind founding Digits and solving slow financial systems.How Digits provides real-time financial data to businesses.Why traditional accounting systems fail and how Digits overcomes it.Jeff’s vision for AI and automation in the future of accounting.Jeff shared his journey from building his first app at 13 to leading Digits, offering an insightful look at how modern accounting platforms are reshaping finance operations. His perspective on real-time financial data, overcoming the limitations of traditional systems, and the role of AI in automating workflows provides valuable guidance for finance leaders navigating the future of finance.Follow Jeff:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jseibert/Website - https://jeffseibert.com/Company - https://digits.com/Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture 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:[02:25] - Jeff’s Background[07:11] - Why Traditional Accounting Fails[10:24] - Overcoming Data Challenges[13:17] - The Long Road to Market[17:42] - AI Agents in Real-Time Accounting[21:55] - Overcoming AI Adoption Resistance[23:20] - What’s Next for AI in Five Years[25:41] - The Future of Accounting[30:44] - Transition from Startup to Big Company[33:56] - Personalized and Fun Questions for Jeff

In this episode, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper explore the challenges and opportunities that come with incorporating AI into finance. They discuss why so many AI projects fall short of expectations, the importance of having clear processes and clean data, and how businesses can get the most out of these technologies. The conversation also covers the practical uses of tools like ChatGPT and Excel Copilot, and the need for realistic expectations when adopting new technology.In this episode, you will discover:Why 95% of AI projects don’t deliver the results businesses expect.The critical role that data quality and solid workflows play in making AI work.How businesses are using tools like ChatGPT and Excel Copilot to enhance financial operations.How to integrate these tools effectively into existing systems.The importance of setting realistic goals and expectations when using new technologies.Paul and Glenn stress that while AI offers great potential, it’s important to approach it with a clear understanding of its capabilities and limitations. They discuss how businesses can align technology with existing processes, manage expectations, and avoid common pitfalls.Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture 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:[00:41] - Welcome to the Episode[01:07] - Funny News of This Week[04:00] - Why AI Projects Underperform[09:12] - AI Automation for New Hires: Realistic or Hype[16:01] - Understanding AI Fundamentals in Finance[17:41] - Thoughts on ChatGPT-5[31:06] - Summary of Key Takeaways from the Episode