POPULARITY
Categories
Our Global Our Middle & Back Office Salary Report 2025 is now available for purchase. Published by HC Group's Talent Intelligence team. the report covers salary benchmarks for Risk, Legal & Compliance, Corporate Finance (includes STF/Treasury), Finance & Accounting,Technology& Human Resources positions across all commodity trading hubs. The report, created using proprietary data, is designed for HR leaders and company officers to calibrate salaries in this competitive market as we head into business planning for 2026. For more information, visit https://www.hcgroup.global/energy-trading-report or email intelligence@hcgroup.global
After several years of slowed activity, mergers and acquisitions picked up in the first half of 2025, as disciplined dealmakers reentered the market despite continued uncertainty. In this episode, three McKinsey M&A experts share their recent analysis of global dealmaking, explore the continued outperformance of programmatic acquirers, and weigh in on what the rest of the year’s transactions might look like once the data are finalized. Jake Henry is a senior partner in our Chicago office and the global co-leader of our M&A Practice. He serves clients on M&A strategy, integration, separations, due diligence, and JVs and alliances. Patrick McCurdy is a partner in our Boston office and a leader of our M&A Strategy and Due Diligence work. He serves clients across industries, advising clients on how to leverage M&A as a differentiated capability. Luke Carter is an associate partner in our New York office and co-leads our M&A capability building work, as well as our annual M&A capability survey and our corresponding research into the habits of programmatic acquirers. Rich in resilience: Dealmakers deliver strong first-half results in M&A The seven habits of programmatic acquirers Time to revisit your M&A strategy M&A Annual Report: Is the wave finally arriving? Gen AI: Opportunities in M&A The portfolio management imperative and its M&A implications McKinsey Insights on Strategy & Corporate Finance McKinsey Insights on M&A McKinsey Strategy & Corporate Finance on LinkedInSupport the show: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/mckinsey-strategy-&-corporate-finance/See www.mckinsey.com/privacy-policy for privacy information
Join Prateek Sodhi, Co-Founder & CEO of Finofo, in conversation with Gary Fowler, as they explore how AI is transforming corporate finance — from accounts payable (AP) automation to intelligent treasury management. Discover how Finofo is reimagining how finance teams operate globally by streamlining workflows, reducing friction, and enabling smarter decision-making with AI-driven insights.Insights You'll Learn:✅ The role of AI in corporate finance and the evolution of financial operations✅ How automation is reshaping accounts payable and treasury management✅ Scaling a B2B fintech from concept to millions in venture funding✅ Lessons from moving from VC investing to startup building✅ How AI enhances accuracy, speed, and control in financial decision-making✅ The future of AI-driven CFO tools and global finance optimizationWhy This Matters:* Corporate finance is at a tipping point — AI is eliminating manual bottlenecks and redefining how global teams operate.* Finofo's innovations are setting a new standard for speed, precision, and intelligence in financial workflows.* Prateek's unique lens as both a former investor and founder reveals how to build scalable fintech solutions that solve real-world pain points.Expert Background:• Co-Founder & CEO of Finofo – building the future of finance automation for global enterprises• Former institutional VC investor, now fintech entrepreneur• Raised over $5M in venture funding• Scaling one of Canada's fastest-growing B2B fintechs• Passionate about AI, financial technology, and intelligent systems that empower finance leaders
Not every financial story starts with a bull market — but that's exactly where Sarah Rogers, SVP of Corporate Finance for MGM Resorts International, found her footing. From Wall Street to the Las Vegas Strip, Sarah now helps steer one of the world's largest hospitality companies through billion-dollar deals, market shifts, and global expansion. In our conversation, Sarah opened up about:
FinPod: Communication & Presentation Skills for Finance | Why Soft Skills are Your Career AcceleratorTechnical skills are essential, but if you can't communicate your financial insights clearly and confidently, they have zero impact. This new course, Communication and Presentation Skills for Finance Professionals, is designed to bridge that gap.Join us as we discuss why these "soft skills" are actually your biggest career accelerator in finance, often setting the most successful professionals apart from their peers.This episode covers:Why This Course Was Built: We reveal why strong communication skills, not just technical aptitude, are critical for building trust, improving client relationships, and accelerating your career trajectory (often faster than technical skills alone).What You Will Gain: Learn the power of active listening, how to identify your communication style (passive, aggressive, or assertive), and gain practical tips to adapt your approach to be more effective.The Investment Banking Lesson: Hear why the most successful Managing Directors are not just technical experts, but are highly likable and effective communicators who build strong relationships with clients and teams.Unique Course Features: Get a preview of the course format, including diagnostic exercises to identify your style, real-world video examples of strong and poor communication, and step-by-step frameworks for structuring impactful presentations.Stop sitting at your desk waiting for your work to speak for itself. This course provides you with the tools to communicate with confidence and clarity, enabling you to make the impact you want in your career.
Financial ratios are the essential shorthand analysts use to distill massive financial statements into actionable insights. In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained on FinPod, we go beyond academic definitions to explore how ratios reveal a company's true story, measuring performance, efficiency, and existential risk.We examine four pillars of analysis and use contrasting examples, such as Apple vs. Dell, Walmart, Netflix, and the catastrophic failure of Enron, to illustrate how to identify red flags and assess the quality of a business.This episode covers:The Four Pillars of Analysis: Liquidity, Profitability, Leverage, and Efficiency, and why they are the strategic dials that CEOs and CFOs constantly turn.Liquidity Secrets: Why a low current ratio is a sign of strength for an efficient company like Walmart (operating on negative working capital), but a red flag for almost everyone else.The Profitability Contrast: Why Apple competes on premium margin while Dell competes on volume, and how different strategies play out in Operating Margin and Return on Assets (ROA).The Misleading Metrics: Why the P/E ratio is often overrated and why Return on Equity (ROE) can be misleading, masking high risk—and how the DuPont Framework is essential for determining the quality of that return.Leverage & Strategy: The high-risk, high-reward strategy of Netflix using high debt to fund content growth (strategic leverage) versus the structural leverage profile of Dell.The Enron Lesson: The ultimate warning. How the cash flow statement and leverage ratios exposed the fraud, proving that a beautiful income statement means nothing if the underlying cash flow is telling a darker story.
The CFO’s challenge has long been one of translating data into a story that the CEO and their management team can use to set strategy and make other decisions. As generative AI advances, the way that CFOs fulfil this role is changing, as guest and Nestlé CFO Anna Manz describes in this episode. Michael Birshan, a senior partner who leads our firm in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Israel, and host Sean Brown, speak with Manz about how she uses AI now and plans to in the future, the impact of geopolitics on Nestlé's operations, and the CFO’s role in integrating the executive team in strategic decision-making and resource allocation. Related insights Toward the long term: CFO perspectives on the future of finance Connecting strategy, finance, and personal development: A conversation with Marjorie Lao What an AI-powered finance function of the future looks like Generative AI in finance: Finding the way to faster, deeper insights How finance skills are evolving in the era of artificial intelligence McKinsey Insights on the CFO role McKinsey Insights on Strategy & Corporate Finance McKinsey Strategy & Corporate Finance on LinkedInSupport the show: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/mckinsey-strategy-&-corporate-finance/See www.mckinsey.com/privacy-policy for privacy information
If you're in corporate finance, you need to understand the true influence of Hedge Funds. They are not just market speculators; they are powerful, concentrated stakeholders whose specific demands can change a company's financial destiny overnight, forcing massive share buybacks, debt reduction, or strategic divestitures.In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained on FinPod, we cut through the Hollywood stereotypes to analyze the actual mechanics of Activist Hedge Funds, what they demand, and how your finance team should strategically respond.This episode covers:The Mechanics of Activism: We break down the differences between traditional funds and activist funds, explaining how concentrated capital and strategic long/short bets give them immense power over public companies.Myth Busting: We dispel common misconceptions, showing how effective activists often push for deep, long-term foundational changes (like operational turnarounds) and act as catalysts for value creation.Three Levers of Influence: How activists deploy power: 1) Influencing Valuation by announcing their position, 2) Shaping Corporate Strategy through board nominations and proxy battles, and 3) Driving M&A Activity and divestitures.Real-World Case Studies: Analysis of classic activist campaigns, including Carl Icahn's push for massive buybacks at Apple, Elliott Management's operational critique of AT&T, and Bill Ackman's leadership change at Canadian Pacific Railway.The Strategic Response Framework: Practical steps for finance teams to prepare: Proactively modeling activist scenarios (buybacks, spinoffs), continuously stress-testing capital allocation, and strengthening communication to remove an activist's ammunition.
Ever see a company announce a massive, one-time cash payout and wonder what's really going on? These "special dividends" are more than just financial fireworks; they're a critical signal from management about a company's health, discipline, and future growth prospects.In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained on FinPod, we cut through the noise to explain what these bombshell payments really mean for investors. Using real-world examples from Microsoft, Costco, and more, we unpack the reasons behind a special dividend and teach you how to analyze whether it's a sign of undeniable strength or a potential red flag.In this video, you will learn: The crucial difference between a regular dividend and a special dividend. The 4 main reasons a company issues a special dividend are to distribute excess cash and to take advantage of tax benefits. How to determine if a payout signals financial discipline or a lack of growth opportunities. Real-world case studies: Microsoft's demonstration of strength, Costco's relentless discipline, and ViacomCBS's debt-funded warning signs. How analysts factor these one-off events into valuation models (DCF) and credit ratings.
Ramp cofounder and CEO Eric Glyman joins Leadership Next to discuss how the fintech upstart has scaled from launch to $1 billion in annualized revenue in just a few years—while reshaping the incentives of the corporate card industry. Glyman explains Ramp's mission to help companies spend less, how AI is automating millions of hours of financial work, and why urgency and speed are core to Ramp's culture.
Giesecke+Devrient – ein Name, den viele mit Banknoten verbinden. Doch das 1852 gegründete Traditionsunternehmen hat sich längst zu einem global führenden Security-Tech-Konzern entwickelt. Digitale Identitäten, Payment-Lösungen, Cybersecurity und sichere Konnektivität sind heute die Wachstumstreiber – und M&A sowie Finanzstrategie spielen dabei eine Schlüsselrolle. Darüber spreche ich heute mit Jan Thyen, Group CFO bei G+D. Mit über 25 Jahren Erfahrung in Corporate Finance und M&A – von der WestLB über Evotec bis hin zu mehr als 14 Jahren bei G+D – kennt er die Transformation der Finanz- und M&A-Rollen aus erster Hand. Wir diskutieren, wie CFOs und Corporate M&A die Unternehmensentwicklung prägen und wie sich diese Rollen im Zuge von Digitalisierung, Tech und KI weiterentwickeln könnten.Wir beleuchten in dieser Episode:wie sich die Rolle des CFOs gewandelt hat,wie die Corporate-M&A-Strategie von G+D aussieht,wie eng M&A und Corporate Finance zusammenspielen,welche Rolle M&A-Transaktionen bei Transformationen einnehmen,was die Zukunft sowohl für CFOs als auch für Corporate M&A bereithält,und vieles mehr... Viel Spaß beim Hören!***Mit dem Code CLOSE THE DEAL 20 % auf Datenräume von SS&C Intralinks sparen: http://bit.ly/4mquclV***Timestamps:(00:03:50) Vita Jan(00:08:17) Internationale Erfahrungen(00:09:58) Corporate Finance bei WestLB(00:13:12) Corporate M&A bei Evotec(00:18:05) M&A-Team bei Giesecke+Devrient(00:25:26) Vorstellung und Transformation von G+D(00:38:35) Corporate M&A-Strategie bei G+D(00:45:24) Transformation durch M&A(00:48:54) Rolle des CFOs im Wandel der Zeit(00:56:31) Zukünftige Anforderungen an CFOs(01:00:32) Ausblick G+D***Alle Links zur Folge:Kai Hesselmann auf LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kai-hesselmann-dealcircle/CLOSE THE DEAL auf LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/closethedeal-podcastJan Thyen auf LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-thyen-b8216617/G+D auf LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/giesecke-devrient/Folge 126: https://dealcircle.com/ClosetheDeal/episoden/126-felix-haas-bits-and-pretzels/Website CLOSE THE DEAL: https://dealcircle.com/ClosetheDeal/***AMBER ist die Plattform für sichere Unternehmensnachfolgen. Schaut bei AMBER vorbei, wenn ihr keinen relevanten Deal mehr verpassen oder die Reichweite eurer Verkaufsmandate zusätzlich erhöhen wollt: www.amber.deals***Du bist M&A-Berater im Small- oder Midcap-Segment und suchst einen Überblick über alle relevanten Deals? Jetzt schnell den
Live from Sibos, TMI's Eleanor Hill speaks with Kevin Flood (FIS) about the next wave of payments innovation and what it really means for corporate treasurers. Our guest discusses how banks and providers are enhancing the corporate payments experience and balancing innovation with treasurers' core priorities around speed, accuracy, and reconciliation. Kevin also explores the rise of Payments-as-a-Service and why modernising infrastructure will be key to meeting regulatory deadlines and enabling the next generation of instant payments.
Discover How AI Tools Are Revolutionizing Personal & Corporate Finance in 2025!In this episode of More Knowledge, More Wealth, CEO, and Founder Gabriel Shahin breaks down how to use AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Grok, and others to help you save money, eliminate debt, and make smarter decisions during benefits season.Whether you're a beginner or a finance professional, you'll learn how to use AI in finance to build a custom budget, reduce unnecessary expenses, analyze your benefits, and even negotiate bills. Perfect for:• Finance professionals & accountants• Corporate finance teams• Anyone looking to use AI for budgeting or debt payoff• Those exploring new AI tools that provide real, tangible financial value• Discover best AI toolsWhat You'll Learn:10+ ways to use AI for finance in 2025How ChatGPT for finance professionals can save hoursHow to use AI tools for business decisions and benefit electionsThe AI tools that will make you rich in 2025 (if you use them right)
When a Fortune 100 company needs billions, the choice between issuing corporate bonds and securing a bank loan is a critical strategic dilemma. It's not just about the lowest interest rate; it's about control, public scrutiny, risk, and scale.In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained on FinPod, we provide a strategic map for corporate finance professionals, dissecting the trade-offs, mechanics, and real-world scenarios that drive this foundational funding decision.This episode covers:The Three Paths to Debt: We break down the mechanisms of Traditional Bank Loans (speed, flexibility, but strict covenants), Syndicated Loans (group effort for big-ticket financing), and Corporate Bonds (massive scale, public scrutiny, long tenor).The Gatekeepers: The fundamental role of Credit Ratings (Moody's, S&P) in dictating the price of capital, separating safe Investment Grade issuers from riskier High Yield ("junk") bonds.Strategy in Action: Analysis of how Apple used domestic bonds for tax-efficient share buybacks and how Tesla tapped the high-yield market to fuel its massive early-stage growth when conservative banks were cautious.Crisis Response: Why companies like Delta Airlines and Ford rely on fast, flexible bank loans (revolving credit, syndicated facilities) when public bond markets seize up during a crisis (e.g., COVID-19).The Debt Amplifier: We discuss how debt magnifies outcomes—accelerating growth when fundamentals are strong, but accelerating collapse when WCM is weak (e.g., Toys R Us).The Resilience Framework: Five crucial questions to guide your decision-making, ensuring the structure of your financing (term, covenants, access) is robust enough to withst
In this episode of What's New at CFI on FinPod, we discuss our CFI Job Board, a curated resource designed to connect you directly with top finance roles. We discuss why this feature is the "natural endpoint" of your learning journey and reveals the best resources to land your dream job.This episode covers:The CFI Job Board: Learn why our new, curated job board, partnered with major engines like Indeed, only shows you finance roles relevant to the FMVA, CMSA, and BIDA programs.Reverse Engineering Your Path: A powerful strategy for learners: find an ideal job posting on the board, see the required skills, and then use the CFI catalog to build that exact expertise.Hidden Career Resources: A reminder of CFI's vast ecosystem, including the Careers in Finance podcast series and the Career Map in the learning platform.Community & Feedback: The crucial role of the CFI community for networking and asking professionals about their roles, and how your feedback will shape future career tools.Whether you're looking for your first finance job or aiming for a promotion, this episode is your guide to maximizing the career resources available at CFI.
Cinderella CEO On Air Podcast Host Cary Broussard interviews Charlotte Gustavsson about her experiences, opportunities, and challenges of serving on boards of directors and the benefits of those who find women board members. Their conversation touches briefly on the difference between Sweden and United States efforts to see more women serving on boards –Cary and Charlotte met through a networking organization called Liberty Ventures.Cary and Charlotte discuss the huge benefits of having diverse boards, backed up by lots of research. The key is to bring different people together with different perspectives, on top of the key skills needed to lead the strategic work of a company. But leading a diverse board is no walk in the park - a chairman that can read the room and let board members contribute properly is the key to success.Lack of women, lack of diversified boards in general run a higher risk of missing out on new business opportunities and identification of trends, according to Charlotte. The board mandates are so much more complex in these turbulent times, so board leaders need to factor in geopolitics, extreme weather, secure supply chains, new trends, new generations with new values - all factors that support the need for diverse board members.Charlotte began her career in Corporate Finance & M&A before moving into media, where she got her first opportunity as a CEO at 31 years of age. Charlotte grew Viasat1 (part of Modern Times Group) to become one of Ghana's top TV stations, securing Premier League rights and launching multiple local productions. Cary and Charlotte also discuss her career in professional sports. Charlotte served as CEO of two (2) top-tier Swedish ice hockey clubs (in SHL), MoDo Hockey and Karlskrona Hockeyklubb. Charlotte was subjected to some public scrutiny during her years in professional sports, and shares lessons learned in her conversation with Cary. Cary jokes that Charlotte reminds her of the character Rebecca Welton, (played by actress Hannah Waddington), the owner of AFC Richmond, on Apple TV's Ted Lasso – delving into how hockey and sports can be the foundation for a successful board service role!Experienced in Corporate Governance & Board Leadership, Charlotte discusses her management of the Styrelseakademien Stockholm, a leading members club for board professionals. Charlotte is a Certified European Director (ecoDa) and Nordic Governance expert, public speaker and advisor on Corporate Leadership and Board Dynamics. For more background on Charlotte, go to her website: https://www.globalheartleaders.comFor background on Cary Broussard and her book, From Cinderella to CEO, go to: https://www.cinderellaceo.com
In this second episode of our two-part series on navigating the four seasons of successful CEO leadership, Carolyn Dewar and Kurt Strovink, two of the authors of the upcoming book A CEO For All Seasons, share insights drawn from top-performing CEOs on how to navigate the middle two stages of CEO leadership—starting strong as a new CEO and staying ahead—to maintain long-term effectiveness while at the top. Carolyn Dewar, a coauthor of the New York Times bestselling CEO Excellence, is a senior partner at McKinsey & Company and founded and co-leads the firm’s global CEO excellence client service line. She is a frequent keynote speaker on leadership and transformation. Kurt Strovink, a coauthor of the national bestseller The Journey of Leadership: How CEOs Lead from the Inside Out, is a senior partner at McKinsey & Company. Kurt leads the firm’s global CEO services practice and is also a member of McKinsey’s Board of Directors. Related insights A CEO for All Season: Mastering the Cycles of Leadership Sending it forward: Successfully transitioning out of the CEO role Staying ahead: How the best CEOs continually improve performance Stepping up: Becoming a high-potential CEO candidate Starting strong: Making your CEO transition a catalyst for renewal The inner game of women CEOs The CEO’s essential checklist: Questions every chief executive should be able to answer Leadership lessons from the world’s best CEOs Serving a greater purpose: CEO Excellence revisited Building leaders from the ground up The art of 21st-century leadership: From succession planning to building a leadership factory CEO Excellence: The Six Mindsets that Distinguish the Best Leaders from the Rest McKinsey Insights on Strategy & Corporate Finance McKinsey Strategy & Corporate Finance on LinkedIn Support the show: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/mckinsey-strategy-&-corporate-finance/See www.mckinsey.com/privacy-policy for privacy information
Ever wonder how a profitable company can suddenly face bankruptcy? The answer lies in Working Capital Management (WCM). In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained on FinPod, we delve beyond profit margins to examine the daily cash battle that determines a company's survival and growth.We unpack the paradox of being "paper rich, cash poor" and reveal how WCM masters, such as Apple and Walmart, have turned liquidity into a competitive weapon, while others have learned the hard way that neglecting cash flow can destroy value.This episode covers:The WCM Paradox: Understanding the critical difference between long-term profit and short-term liquidity, and how a broken Cash Conversion Cycle (CCC) can lead to failure.Strategic Mastery: How companies achieve strategic negative working capital by using market leverage to get cash from customers instantly while stretching payments to suppliers (effectively an interest-free loan from the supply chain).Lessons from Failure: The stark warning from Kraft Heinz, where a WCM breakdown—bloated inventory and slow receivables—led directly to a painful dividend cut, showing WCM discipline is not optional.The Finance Playbook: Five core strategies every professional must champion to weaponize WCM, including tightening Accounts Receivable terms, centralizing cash with Treasury Management, and using AI for demand forecasting.Critical Ratios: The importance of stress testing your short-term resilience and knowing key ratios that signal liquidity risk long before the crisis hits.
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre you letting too much of your business's hard-earned cash sit idle when it could be working for you in multiple ways?As a business owner, you know the importance of having liquidity—an emergency or opportunity fund you can access instantly. But parking that money in a savings account or GIC often feels wasteful, especially when inflation eats away at its value. The challenge is balancing peace of mind with real growth. That's where the idea of a “wealth reservoir” comes in: a structured way to protect cash, keep it liquid, and still put it to work building long-term wealth.In this episode, you'll discover:How a whole life insurance policy can serve as a corporate wealth reservoir, giving you both liquidity and steady growth.Practical strategies for deciding how much to contribute and how to scale as your retained earnings grow.The emotional and financial considerations for starting small—and why most successful business owners eventually build multiple reservoirs.Press play now to learn how to transform idle corporate cash into a powerful engine for security, opportunity, and long-term wealth.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyle…taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…investing inside your corporation without a passive income tax minimization strategy;…letting a large sum of liquid assets sit in low interest earning savings accounts;…investing corporate dollars into GICs, dividend stocks/funds, or other investments attracting corporate passive income taxes at greater than 50%; or,…wondering whether your current corporate wealth management strategy is optimal for your specific situation.Building a strong Canadian wealth plan starts with a clear financial vision setting process and the right mix of financial buckets to support both corporate finance and personal finance goals. By using a wealth reservoir—a strategy that leverages insurance policies to keep retained earnings liquid while still growing—you can create an emergency fund and opportunity fund that optimize cash flow. For the Canadian entrepreneur finance journey, this ties directly into corporate wealth planning, corporation investment strategies, and personal vReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
In this episode of CFI Member Spotlight on FinPod, we showcase the incredible journey of Iuliia Tuseeva, an Equity Analyst at the BEAM Fund and a student at Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Vancouver, BC.Iuliia shares how her passion for mathematics and economics first sparked her interest in finance, leading her to successfully navigate a major international move alone and quickly build a competitive career foundation.This episode covers:From Olympiads to Investing: How Iuliia's early passion for math and economics competitions quickly translated into real-world trading and investment analysis.The Power of Adversity: Why moving alone to Canada at a young age was her biggest struggle and how that experience built the mental maturity and independence essential for success in finance.SFU Case Competitions: How she used global case competitions (like an M&A challenge) and student associations to gain practical skills far beyond the classroom.Life in Private Equity: Insights from her internship at Alpine Vista's Capital, including the challenge of performing deep industry research in niche sectors (and how to find hidden data).The Value of Community: Her experience in the RBC Women in Investment Management Mentorship Program and why learning how to network and build genuine relationships is crucial for career growth.The BEAM Fund Experience: How her role as an Equity Analyst in a student-led, multi-million dollar fund provides hands-on, high-level experience in equity research, portfolio management, and investment strategy.Iuliia's intentional approach to skill-stacking (including multiple CFI certifications) provides a compelling roadmap for any aspiring finance professional.
In the high-stakes world of corporate leadership, becoming a Fortune 500 CEO is an Everest-like ascent, with only the savviest succeeding across every stage of the journey. Carolyn Dewar, Vik Malhotra, and Kurt Strovink, authors of the upcoming book A CEO For All Seasons, join Sean to share insights from top-performing CEOs on navigating the first and fourth stages of CEO leadership – preparing for the role and fortifying a legacy, in the first of two episodes based on the new book. Carolyn Dewar, a coauthor of the New York Times bestselling CEO Excellence, is a senior partner at McKinsey and founded and co-leads the firm’s global CEO excellence client service line. She is a frequent keynote speaker on leadership and transformation. Vikram (Vik) Malhotra, a coauthor of CEO Excellence, is a senior partner at McKinsey where he has worked since 1986. He has served on McKinsey’s Board of Directors and as McKinsey’s Managing Partner of the Americas. Kurt Strovink is a senior partner at McKinsey and a member of the firm’s Board of Directors. He also leads McKinsey’s global CEO services practice and coauthored the national bestseller The Journey of Leadership: How CEOs Lead from the Inside Out. Related insights A CEO for All Seasons: Mastering the Cycles of Leadership Sending it forward: Successfully transitioning out of the CEO role Staying ahead: How the best CEOs continually improve performance Stepping up: Becoming a high-potential CEO candidate Starting strong: Making your CEO transition a catalyst for renewal The inner game of women CEOs The CEO’s essential checklist: Questions every chief executive should be able to answer Leadership lessons from the world’s best CEOs Serving a greater purpose: CEO Excellence revisited Building leaders from the ground up The art of 21st-century leadership: From succession planning to building a leadership factory CEO Excellence: The Six Mindsets that Distinguish the Best Leaders from the Rest McKinsey Insights on Strategy & Corporate Finance McKinsey Strategy & Corporate Finance on LinkedIn Support the show: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/mckinsey-strategy-&-corporate-finance/See www.mckinsey.com/privacy-policy for privacy information
Ever wondered why companies like Airbnb, Spotify, and WeWork chose such different paths to the public markets? In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained on FinPod, we break down the three main ways companies go public: the traditional IPO, the disruptive Direct Listing, and the volatile SPAC.We'll unpack the mechanics, the trade-offs, and the key factors that drive a company's leadership to choose one door over the others.This episode covers:The IPO: The classic route for raising billions in capital, but we reveal the hidden costs and why it led to Airbnb's "money left on the table" problem.The Direct Listing: The cheaper, faster, and more transparent alternative. We explore why it was the perfect fit for companies like Spotify and Slack who wanted liquidity, not capital.The SPAC: The "wild west" of going public. We explain its appeal for speed and why it's a high-risk gamble that ultimately couldn't save WeWork's flawed business model.By the end of this episode, you'll be able to quickly analyze any public offering and understand the strategic choices behind it.
In this episode of What's New at CFI on FinPod, we're introducing the CFI AI Tutor, a powerful learning assistant designed to provide instant, contextual help to every learner.Join Meeyeon as she sits down with Sebastian Taylor and Stephen Moerane to dive into the core features of this innovative tool.This episode covers:Why AI Tutor? The motivation behind building a 24/7 support tool is to provide instant answers, complementing CFI's in-depth video courses.Smarter Than ChatGPT: Learn what makes the CFI AI Tutor a hyper-specialized tool that provides contextualized answers based on the specific lesson you're watching, your career, and your industry.Impact on Your Learning: We discuss how the AI Tutor can help you practice concepts, clarify questions, and ultimately improve your performance in end-of-course assessments and certifications.Real-World Learner Feedback: Hear from our Community Manager, Stephen, on how learners are already using the AI Tutor to link complex concepts and get support on their journey.Whether you're working on a course exercise or simply want to test your understanding, the CFI AI Tutor is there to help you every step of the way.
Your company's balance sheet looks clean, but what financial secrets might be hiding just off the books? In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained on FinPod, we explore the hidden world of off-balance sheet financing. This practice isn't always bad. Sometimes it's a smart strategic move, but it can also be a dangerous way to obscure a company's true financial health.We'll teach you how to spot the risks and understand the crucial difference between legitimate and deceptive practices.This episode covers:Common Forms of Off-Balance Sheet Financing: From historical operating leases (used by companies like Starbucks and Delta) to modern-day Joint Ventures (JVs) and Special Purpose Entities (SPEs).Intent vs. Abuse: We analyze textbook examples of abuse, like Enron's catastrophic use of SPEs to hide billions in debt, and contrast it with legitimate strategic uses that are transparently disclosed.The Case of GE: We examine how even technically legitimate but overly complex structures can erode investor confidence and become a major problem.Practical Detective Work: Learn the top three things to look for in a company's financials to spot hidden risks. We show you why you must read the footnotes and how to adjust your own analysis to get a realistic picture of a company's leverage.This is a must-watch for anyone who wants to see the full financial story beyond the main balance sheet.
The current climate of geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainty can complicate the strategy process and can make the idea of waiting for calmer times look attractive. But as our guests today point out, waiting out the storm is not an option. Instead, organizations need to make bold strategic moves rooted in a thorough understanding of how they create value and the market conditions they face. In this episode, Sean is joined by Matt Watters, who is a leader in our Geopolitics, Government, and Strategy and Corporate Finance Practices and a partner in our New Jersey office. Matt’s work focuses on growth and innovation in industries with evolving global dynamics, including defense, space, semiconductors, high tech, and cybersecurity. Ezra Greenberg also joins the podcast and is a partner in our Connecticut office, where he advises executives and investors across multiple sectors on how macro forces and global trends impact critical strategy and investment decisions under uncertainty. Related insights In a moment of tariffs, can the world find balance and trust to thrive? How American business can prosper in the new geopolitical era Restricted: How export controls are reshaping markets Tariffs on the move? A guide for CEOs for 2025 and beyond A proactive approach to navigating geopolitics is essential to thrive Strategy beyond the hockey stick: People, probabilities, and big moves beat the odds Building geopolitical resilience: A conversation with Michèle Flournoy Taking a proactive approach to geopolitics McKinsey Insights on Strategy & Corporate Finance McKinsey Strategy & Corporate Finance on LinkedInSupport the show: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/mckinsey-strategy-&-corporate-finance/See www.mckinsey.com/privacy-policy for privacy information
Not every career starts with the corner office — Mike Neubecker shares with #NoVacancyNews his story from hourly front desk clerk at MGM Grand back in 1993 to President & COO of MGM Grand, New York-New York, and Excalibur. That's three of the most iconic #MGMResorts properties on the Las Vegas Strip! In our conversation, Mike shared insights on:
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereIs leverage always the golden key to building wealth—or can it sometimes hold you back?Many entrepreneurs believe that using corporate or personal leverage is the ultimate strategy for unlocking cash flow and accelerating growth. But what happens when shifting debt from one pocket to another doesn't actually improve your position? In this episode, we explore Omar's story—an accomplished entrepreneur with multiple businesses, smart tax planning, and a well-structured financial system—who discovered that leverage wasn't the answer he expected. If you've ever wondered whether you're missing out by not tapping into leverage, this conversation may shift your perspective.You'll discover:Why using corporate-owned life insurance for leverage can backfire if the timing isn't right.The crucial difference between leverage that creates growth and leverage that simply shuffles debt.How to evaluate which assets are truly best to borrow against—so you protect cash flow without triggering unnecessary tax or fees.Press play now to learn when leverage can propel you forward—and when it's wiser to keep that ace up your sleeve.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyle…taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…investing inside your corporation without a passive income tax minimization strategy;…letting a large sum of liquid assets sit in low interest earning savings accounts;…investing corporate dollars into GICs, dividend stocks/funds, or other investments attracting corporate passive income taxes at greater than 50%; or,…wondering whether your current corporate wealth management strategy is optimal for your specific situation.Canadian entrepreneurs seeking financial freedom know that building long-term wealth in Canada requires more than just hard work—it takes a clear financial strategy. From tax-efficient investing and RRSP optimization to balancing salary vs dividends Canada, corporate wealth planning, and personal vs corporate tax planning, every decision impacts your path to financial independence. Leveraging permanent insurance, real estate investing Canada, and capital gains strategy can unlock new financial buckets while supporting debt manaReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
From Wells Fargo to McKinsey: A Career Journey in Finance with Shubham MittalIn this episode of Careers in Finance on FinPod, we sit down with Shubham Mittal, a Financial Analyst at McKinsey & Company, to explore his diverse and inspiring career journey. From his beginnings at Indian Oil Corp and Wells Fargo to his current role at a top-tier consulting firm, Shubham shares the lessons he learned on the path to success.Join us as we unpack how he navigated a career in finance and learn his top insights on building a resilient and adaptable professional life.This episode covers:The Value of Internships: How varied experiences at companies like JP Morgan, Dell Technologies, and Siemens shaped his skills and prepared him for a full-time career.The MBA Advantage: The three key motivations behind his decision to pursue an MBA, including the power of networking and building a holistic business perspective.Life at McKinsey: A look into his day-to-day as a financial analyst, the "make your own McKinsey" culture, and how he focuses on managing operational expenses (OPEX).Top 3 Skills: Shubham's advice on the most important skills for aspiring finance professionals: continuous learning, networking, and the courage to fail.Learning from Rejection: His powerful story of a 12-hour interview with JP Morgan that taught him a crucial lesson in resilience that led to a better opportunity.Whether you're just starting your career or looking for inspiration to grow, Shubham's story offers valuable insights for every aspiring professional.Want to hear more from Shubham? Check out his podcast, "The Prudent Finance," for more insights on the world of finance
Have you ever wondered why some companies thrive while others, with seemingly great products, collapse? The answer often lies in an unseen force: corporate governance. In this episode of Corporate Finance Explained on FinPod, we go beyond compliance checklists to explore how the delicate balance between a company's board, executives, and shareholders is the true engine of its financial health or its ultimate demise.We'll use compelling real-world case studies to show you what happens when governance fails (and when it works spectacularly well). This episode is a must-watch for any finance professional looking to understand the forces that truly drive a company's financial success.This episode covers:What is Corporate Governance? We demystify this critical framework, explaining its role as the "operating system" for a company's financial decision-making, from risk management to capital allocation.When Governance Fails: We analyze the devastating consequences of governance failures at Enron, Theranos, and WeWork, revealing how a lack of transparency, expertise, and oversight can destroy billions in value.When Governance Works: We look at inspiring examples of good governance in action, showing how companies like Unilever and Microsoft used a strong framework to foster resilience, innovation, and long-term value creation.Your Role in Governance: We provide five actionable best practices for finance professionals to become central players in strengthening their company's financial integrity and strategic clarity.This is a comprehensive guide to understanding the invisible hand that guides a company's financial future.
Beyond reporting requirements and transparency imperatives, there’s a huge financial incentive to manage your company’s sustainability activities with data-driven business decision-making. To do so, efforts must be anchored in a data strategy that merges the financial and the ESG analysis. In this episode, Peter Spiller, a partner based in our Frankfurt office who co-leads our efforts in environmentally sustainable operations, speaks with Dominik Asam, Member of the Executive Board and CFO at enterprise planning software giant SAP. Dominik talks about his role in helping steer the company and their customers towards decarbonization, and how to balance the financial ledger with the sustainability ‘Green Ledger’ in a future-ready way that centers on driving real progress while protecting the bottom line. Related insightsManaging carbon: A new role for the CFO Toward the long term: CFO perspectives on the future of finance Reaching net zero–what will it take? McKinsey Insights on Strategy & Corporate Finance McKinsey Strategy & Corporate Finance on LinkedInSupport the show: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/mckinsey-strategy-&-corporate-finance/See www.mckinsey.com/privacy-policy for privacy information
Ready to take your data analysis skills to the next level? In this episode of What's New at CFI, we chat with subject matter expert Joseph Yeates about his newest course, Data Analysis in Python. This course is the perfect follow-up to our "Getting Started with Python" series and is designed for anyone, especially Excel users and BI professionals, looking to apply Python to real-world datasets.Joseph explains why Python is an essential skill for finance professionals today, covering its ability to handle large datasets and its new native integration with Excel.This episode coversThe Data Analysis Workflow: An overview of the entire process, from importing and cleaning data to analyzing and visualizing results.Bridging Excel and Python: How this course uses familiar tabular data structures to help you transition from spreadsheets to programming.Real-World Application: A personal story about using Python to build a predictive model for retail deposits, highlighting how powerful even small scripts can be.Overcoming the Intimidation: The encouraging message that you don't need a computer science background to master Python.If you're ready to go beyond the basics and start doing real data analysis with Python, this is your next step.
Not many CEOs start their careers bartending at 18 — but that's exactly how Bill Hornbuckle, CEO of MGM Resorts International, got his start. In this incredible #NoVacancyNews conversation, Bill shares how he went from bussing tables at the Jockey Club to leading one of the biggest names in hospitality. We talked about: •
Ever wonder how giants like Apple and Toyota fund their massive operations? The secret isn't just in their sales, it's in their corporate credit ratings.In this episode of FinPod, we go beyond the technical details to explain what these ratings from agencies like S&P and Moody's actually mean and why they are one of the most powerful and often hidden levers in the financial world. We'll show you how a company's credit rating directly impacts its ability to borrow, expand, and compete.This episode covers:The Spectrum of Credit: We break down the difference between the desirable investment grade and the riskier speculative junk status.The Financial Superpower: How top-tier ratings give companies like Apple and Toyota access to extremely low borrowing costs, fueling strategic moves like share buybacks.The Cost of a Downgrade: The severe financial consequences a company like Ford faces when it loses its investment grade rating, including higher interest costs and restricted access to capital.The Comeback Story: The incredible turnaround of Netflix, which went from speculative grade to investment grade by refocusing on profitability and financial fundamentals.Why It Matters: We explain how these ratings aren't just for "finance nerds" but have real-world consequences, affecting everything from R&D funding to hiring.Whether you're a student, a finance professional, or just curious about how the economy works, this episode will give you a clear understanding of the financial gravity that shapes corporate success and failure.
In today’s fast-evolving cybersecurity landscape, organizations face bigger and bolder threats that have wide-reaching implications − from financial and customer data breaches, to third-party infiltration and disruption far down the supply chain. Hacking has become an organized business, and AI and quantum technologies are as much a part of the threat as they are the solution. Charlie Lewis leads our North American and European cyber practices and is a partner in our Stamford office. He supports clients on strategic cyber transformations. In this episode, Charlie speaks with Sean Brown about the critical role of CFOs in their organization’s cyber operations, the core foundations of cybersecurity, and the importance of organizations collaborating on improving security in a world of crime that has no borders. Related insights Resilience Pulse Check: Harnessing Collaboration to Navigate a Volatile WorldRepelling the cyberattackers (book excerpt) McKinsey Insights on Strategy & Corporate Finance McKinsey Strategy & Corporate Finance on LinkedInSupport the show: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/mckinsey-strategy-&-corporate-finance/See www.mckinsey.com/privacy-policy for privacy information
Soliman Abbas's journey into investment banking is a masterclass in persistence and proactive learning. In this episode of Member Spotlight, the recent University of Bristol graduate and newly minted FMVA holder shares his inspiring story, from being an international student at 17 to landing his dream job.Soliman's story is proof that an intentional mindset and dedication to skill-building can change your entire career trajectory.In this episode, you'll learn:The crucial steps Soliman took to secure three internships before his second year of university.How he navigated the intense graduate job market, viewing every rejection not as a failure, but as a "redirection" and a valuable learning opportunity.Why an interviewer's recommendation for the FMVA certification was a "game changer" that bridged the gap between academic theory and practical, real-world finance.His secret to a strong work ethic, inspired by football superstars like Mo Salah, and his focus on consistency and mental strength.The reality of working in investment banking and why soft skills like communication and building trust are just as critical as financial modeling.This episode is a must-watch for anyone on the fence about their next career move or looking for the motivation to take their skills to the next level.
GUEST: John Hinze, Director of Corporate Finance at the B.C Securities Commission Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Expanding into a high-growth region like Brazil or India is full of potential, but from a finance perspective, it's a unique mix of intense risks and substantial rewards. In this episode, we go beyond the surface to explore the core challenges and opportunities of navigating corporate finance in emerging markets.We'll equip you with the foresight and strategies to turn volatility into a competitive edge. This episode is a roadmap for finance professionals looking to build resilience in a dynamic global environment.This episode covers:The Five Core Risks: We break down the unique financial challenges, including currency risk, regulatory uncertainty, and liquidity constraints that demand a completely tailored approach.Lessons from Global Leaders: How companies like Coca-Cola, Unilever, and Tesla have successfully managed these challenges with specific tactics like hedging, local production, and strategic partnerships.Five Actionable Strategies: Concrete steps to build financial resilience, including adopting local capital structuring, creating flexible budgets, and the vital importance of real-time monitoring.A New Mindset: The strategic takeaways for all finance professionals on how to think globally, act locally, and build models that can withstand any shock.
Procurement can play a crucial role in driving a company's transformation, and leaders are now recognizing its potential to be a strategic enabler of change. In this episode of Inside the Strategy Room, we explore the key findings from our recent McKinsey.com article titled “Aim higher and move faster for successful procurement-led transformation”. Teresa George, a partner in our Chicago office, Raul Santos, a partner in our Madrid office, and Cole Wirpel, an associate partner in our Atlanta office, join Sean to share insights on how procurement can be a catalyst for company-wide transformation and the essential capabilities required to achieve this goal. Related insights Aim higher and move faster for successful procurement-led transformation How procurement leaders can bring metals and mining up to speed The digital spend control tower: Shift spending mindsets at scale Defining your ‘true north’: A road map to successful transformation McKinsey Insights on Transformation McKinsey Transformation on LinkedIn McKinsey Insights on Strategy & Corporate Finance McKinsey Strategy & Corporate Finance on LinkedInSupport the show: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/mckinsey-strategy-&-corporate-finance/See www.mckinsey.com/privacy-policy for privacy information
Are you a finance professional who relies on Excel but is curious about the power of programming? In this episode of FinPod: What's New at CFI, we're joined by subject matter expert Joseph Yeates to discuss his new course, Getting Started with Python.Joseph explains why Python is a must-learn skill for data analysis and how this course provides a gentle, practical introduction designed specifically for those with a business background.The course covers:Foundational Concepts: An overview of core Python concepts like variables, data types, and data structures, all explained with real-world scenarios.The Excel to Python Bridge: How the course uses familiar, tabular data structures (like those in Excel) to help you make a smooth transition into the world of programming.Common Hurdles: A look at the common challenges new learners face, from tricky setup processes to frustrating errors, and how this course helps you overcome them.The Power of Hands-On Learning: Why watching videos isn't enough to learn a programming language, and why practice exercises in a Jupyter Notebook are essential to truly mastering the material.If you've been on the fence about learning a programming language, this episode will provide the encouragement you need to take the first step and unlock a new level of data analysis.
Send us a textIn this episode of the FitMitTuro Fitness Podcast, I sit down with Ariana Hakman, founder of Luna Fit, to uncover how busy women can finally build a body they love—without restrictive diets, endless cardio, or food guilt.Ariana shares her journey from corporate finance burnout to creating a wellness brand that blends technology, nutrition, fitness, and community. We dive into the real reasons 50% of Americans are overweight, why quick fixes fail, and the 5 simple daily habits that can change your health for good—no matter how busy your life is.You'll learn:The 5 health habits Ariana swears by for sustainable resultsHow to make progress when time and energy are limitedWhy sleep, hydration, and protein matter more than you thinkHow AI and personalized coaching can make healthy living easier than everWhether you're struggling with consistency, fighting food guilt, or just want a simpler approach to fitness, this conversation will give you the tools and mindset shifts to get results that last.Check out Luna Fit and follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube: @lunafituniverse and check out their website www.lunafit.com/ Explore my coaching options: personaltrainerturo.com
Blockbuster, Lehman Brothers, WeWork. The names are familiar, but the financial stories behind their collapse are often a mystery. In this deep dive, we go beyond the headlines to pull out the crucial lessons in corporate bankruptcy and insolvency for every finance professional.We'll equip you with the foresight to spot financial distress long before it's too late. This episode is a practical guide to the warning signs, key ratios, and high-stakes decisions that define a company's fight for survival.This episode covers:The Two Types of Insolvency: Understanding the difference between a paper problem (balance sheet insolvency) and an immediate cash crisis (cash flow insolvency).Early Warning Signs: The hairline cracks to look for, from declining gross margins and rising debt ratios to subtle behavioral red flags.Lessons from Major Failures: Why unchecked leverage sank Lehman Brothers, how debt suffocated Toys R Us, and why growth for growth's sake was a ticking time bomb for WeWork.The Crisis War Room: What it's like inside the finance department when a company is in distress and how functions like FP&A and Treasury become the absolute nerve center.Critical KPIs: The five non-negotiable metrics to monitor relentlessly, including the Altman Z-score, and why liquidity is a company's oxygen supply.This episode will give you a new lens to view corporate health and help you bring crucial, strategic insight to your organization.
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this conversation, Alan Sestito shares his journey from a corporate finance career to becoming a successful real estate investor and broker. He discusses the pivotal moment that led him to leave his corporate job, the influence of his family, particularly his mother, in guiding him towards real estate, and the importance of networking and mentorship in his new career. Alan also delves into his experiences in the North Carolina real estate market, focusing on single-family rentals and working with institutional buyers. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
This week on the KORE Women Podcast, Dr. Summer Watson welcomes Ahuva Gruen, who was a budding entrepreneur as a kid selling candy to becoming a powerhouse entrepreneur. Ahuva's journey is the ultimate story of resilience and reinvention. She shares how she left corporate life during COVID, rebuilt after divorce, and built her own business, where she empowers entrepreneurs to build sustainable success. Whether you're navigating business growth or personal transformation, Ahuva's wisdom will show you what's possible when you take ownership of your story. You can follow Ahuva Gruen on LinkedIn and at: www.agfinancialcpa.com Thank you for taking the time to listen to the KORE Women podcast and being a part of the KORE Women experience. You can listen to The KORE Women podcast on your favorite podcast directory - Pandora, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, YouTube, Spotify, Stitcher, Podbean, JioSaavn, Amazon and at: www.KOREWomen.com/podcast. Please leave your comments and reviews about the podcast and check out KORE Women on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. You can also learn more about Dr. Summer Watson, MHS, PhD, KORE Women, LLC, the KORE Women podcast, and her Community Empowerment and Cross-Generational Consultation Services by going to: www.korewomen.com. Thank you for listening! Please share this podcast with your family and friends. #FinancialFreedom #WomenInFinance #ResilientLeadership #BusinessTransformation #MoneyMindset
In this episode of Careers in Finance with CFI, we're joined by Charlie Schilling, the CEO of Macabacus. Charlie's career journey is a masterclass in navigating diverse industries, spanning investment banking, management consulting, and senior leadership roles at major companies like Bloomberg and General Assembly.Join us as we unpack Charlie's remarkable path and get his unfiltered insights on:Pivoting into Finance: The story of how a liberal arts major from Georgetown launched a career on Wall Street.The Investment Banking Foundation: How his early years in banking built a foundation of both technical and invaluable soft skills.Advisory vs. Operator: The crucial differences between advising a company from the outside and leading one from within.Building Leadership: How to transition from an individual contributor to a C-suite leader, and the lessons learned along the way.A CEO's Perspective: Charlie's leadership philosophy and his advice for aspiring leaders on navigating career pivots and managing change.Whether you're starting your career or considering your next big move, Charlie's story offers powerful lessons on continuous learning, risk-taking, and the keys to long-term professional growth.
Discover the transformative journey from corporate finance to entrepreneurial success with Shanli Liu, founder of Freedom Folio. What if leaving a steady career could lead to a more fulfilling life and business? Shanley's story is a testament to resilience and the power of personal connections, tracing her path from a childhood fundraising event in China to establishing her own CPA practice in Boston. The episode offers a candid look at the pivotal moments that fueled her transition, including learning from a seasoned CPA and leveraging her corporate experience to launch her own firm after motherhood inspired a new direction. Learn how tax planning can elevate your practice management strategies with insights from Shanley's collaboration with POSBOT and her mentor, Tyler Thompson. The episode explores her evolved mindset from merely fulfilling tasks to embracing the entrepreneurial spirit, emphasizing the importance of strategic client selection and holistic tax planning. Shanley's experiences underscore the necessity of educating clients about tax complexities and the pitfalls of fragmented approaches. Discover practical solutions for scalable client education that combat industry-wide misinformation, ensuring both practitioners and clients are aligned in achieving financial success. Explore the balancing act of entrepreneurship and personal life, as Shanli addresses the challenges of setting boundaries. Through personal anecdotes, including the extreme of taking a client call during labor, the conversation sheds light on the pressures faced by professionals, particularly women, in juggling work and family. Drawing inspiration from Tim Urban, the discussion highlights the need to prioritize family time amidst professional commitments. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of boundaries to prevent burnout and ensure you remain present for those who matter most. Timestamps 00:00:00 - Introduction and Welcome to the Podcast: Shanli Liu's Journey 00:00:12 - Shanley's Early Life and Inspiration from China 00:02:05 - Transition from Corporate Finance to Entrepreneurship 00:03:30 - Founding Freedom Folio and Building a CPA Practice 00:06:45 - Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 00:09:15 - Importance of Learning to Say No in Business 00:11:37 - Embracing Entrepreneurial Mindset through Tax Planning 00:12:45 - Lessons from POSBOT and Training with Tyler Thompson 00:14:30 - Strategic Client Selection for Scalable Tax Planning 00:16:10 - Addressing Fragmented Tax Planning and Client Education 00:18:27 - Holistic Financial Planning for Small Business Owners 00:19:30 - Collaborating with Financial Advisors for Diversification 00:21:00 - Setting Boundaries to Maintain Work-Life Balance 00:22:36 - Challenges of Overworking and People-Pleasing 00:24:00 - Societal Pressures on Women Entrepreneurs 00:25:30 - Reflection on Family Prioritization and Tim Urban's Work 00:27:00 - Conclusion: Aligning Professional Success with Personal Well-being Episode Resources: Connect with Shanli here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanli-liu-234b16b/ Legacy Podcast: For more information about the Legacy Podcast and its co-hosts, visit businesslegacypodcast.com. Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the episode, leave a review and rating on your preferred podcast platform. For more information: Visit businesslegacypodcast.com to access the shownotes and additional resources on the episode.
You've spent days building a perfect financial model, yet something about the final decision just feels "off." The numbers don't lie, but our own brains can quietly lead us astray. In this episode of FinPod, we dive deep into the world of cognitive biases and reveal how these hidden mental shortcuts can derail even the most rigorous financial analysis.We explore real-world corporate case studies and provide a practical toolkit of proven safeguards you can build into your own process to protect your decisions from these human flaws:Discover how biases like overconfidence and loss aversion led to multi-billion dollar mistakes at Hewlett-Packard and Kodak.Learn to use pre-mortem analysis to confront potential flaws and risks before a project even begins.Understand how groupthink and confirmation bias contributed to the tragic Boeing 737 MAX crisis, and how red team reviews can build institutionalized skepticism.Implement a decision journal to track your assumptions over time, helping you spot your own recurring biases.Break free from anchoring bias with scenario diversification, a technique used to explore a wider range of outcomes beyond a single, comfortable forecast.This is a must-listen for any finance professional looking to move beyond the spreadsheet and ensure their strategies are robust and resilient.
Ever feel like your crucial financial analysis gets lost in translation? You're not alone. In this episode of FinPod's "What's New at CFI", we sit down with Paul Barnhurst, famously known as The FP&A Guy, to discuss his new CFI course: "Crafting the Narrative: Storytelling with Data."Paul reveals why simply presenting numbers is no longer enough to get buy-in and advance your career. He shares why the ability to transform data into a compelling story is the most valuable skill a finance professional can have today.Key takeaways from our discussion include:The Power of a Narrative: Discover the difference between a simple report and a persuasive story that includes key insights and a clear call to action.The "What, So What, Now What" Framework: Learn a powerful, time-tested framework for building a message that moves decision-makers to action.Structuring Your Presentations: Find out why planning your narrative is more important than building your slides, and how this one shift can make your presentations far more impactful.Case Studies in Action: Get a sneak peek into the course's practical scenarios, including how to tell the story behind a missed earnings target or an acquisition proposal.Presentation Pet Peeves: We both vent about our biggest presentation pet peeves and share tips for how you can avoid them.If you've ever struggled to get your message across in a meeting or a deck, this episode and the new CFI course are for you. Learn how to level up your executive communication and craft narratives that get results.
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre your retained earnings just sitting idle in your corporation — taxed if touched and seemingly out of reach?Many Canadian business owners struggle to unlock the full potential of their corporate cash. Between tax traps and limited investment options, it often feels like you're stuck watching your money stagnate. This episode uncovers a smart, lesser-known strategy to keep your retained earnings working for you — without triggering personal taxes or resorting to risky bets. This episode shares a recording of a joint webinar between PE-GATE and the team at Canadian Wealth Secrets. Tune in to discover:How to invest your corporation's retained earnings into private businesses while keeping the taxman at bayWhat makes private equity a powerful, tax-efficient asset class — and how regular business owners can finally access itWhy boring, cash-flowing businesses might be the best-kept secret to growing wealth in CanadaIf you're a Canadian business owner ready to put your corporate dollars to work, hit play now and learn how to unlock strategic growth without paying more tax.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyle…taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…investing inside your corporation without a passive income tax minimization strategy;…letting a large sum of liquid assets sit in low interest earning savings accounts;…investing corporate dollars into GICs, dividend stocks/funds, or other investments attracting cordporate passive income taxes at greater than 50%; or,…wondering whether your current corporate wealth management strategy is optimal for your specific situation.Canadian entrepreneurs seeking financial independence and early retirement are increasingly turning to private equity as a core component of their corporate wealth planning. By strategically investing retained earnings into this high-performing asset class, business owners can unlock powerful tax-efficient investing opportunities that go beyond traditional RRSP optimization or real estate investing in Canada. With a focus on liquidity, corporate structure optimization, and tailored investment bucket strategies, this approach supports a modest lifestyle wealtReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
Ready to take a deep dive and learn how to generate personal tax-free cash flow from your corporation? Enroll in our FREE masterclass here and book a call hereAre you racing to optimize your investments before figuring out if you're even on track for retirement?Many Canadians jump straight into strategies like the Smith Maneuver, tax efficiency, and leveraging — but skip the most critical question: What do I actually need to retire on my terms? This episode tackles the foundational work you must do before fine-tuning your wealth plan, so you don't optimize yourself into a shortfall.By listening, you'll discover:Why your “vision number” is more important than which spouse holds the investmentA simple way to reverse-engineer your retirement timeline based on what you already haveHow to calculate whether your current strategy is enough — or needs a total rethinkBefore you tweak another investment detail, hit play to learn how to build a retirement-ready plan that actually works.Discover which phase of wealth creation you are in. Take our quick assessment and you'll receive a custom wealth-building pathway that matches your phase and learn our CRA compliant tax optimized strategies. Take that assessment here.Canadian Wealth Secrets Show Notes Page:Consider reaching out to Kyle…taking a salary with a goal of stuffing RRSPs;…investing inside your corporation without a passive income tax minimization strategy;…letting a large sum of liquid assets sit in low interest earning savings accounts;…investing corporate dollars into GICs, dividend stocks/funds, or other investments attracting corporate passive income taxes at greater than 50%; or,…wondering whether your current corporate wealth management strategy is optimal for your specific situation.A successful Canadian wealth plan starts with clarity — not just on investment strategies like the Smith Maneuver or RRSP optimization, but on your bigger financial vision. Whether you're a high-income earner, entrepreneur, or planning for early retirement in Canada, aligning your budgeting, income needs, and long-term financial goals is key to true financial freedom. At Canadian Wealth Secrets, we help you move beyond surface-level wealth optimization into deeper strategies like corporate wealth planning, tax-efficient investing, and financial systems built for entrepreneurs. From balancing salary vs. dividends to choosing between real estate vs. renting, and crafting a capital gains or legacy plan, your path to building long-term wealth in Canada depends on answering the right vision question first. UsingReady to connect? Text us your comment including your phone number for a response!Canadian Wealth Secrets is an informative podcast that digs into the intricacies of building a robust portfolio, maximizing dividend returns, the nuances of real estate investment, and the complexities of business finance, while offering expert advice on wealth management, navigating capital gains tax, and understanding the role of financial institutions in personal finance.
Want to Start or Grow a Successful Business? Schedule a FREE 13-Point Assessment with Clay Clark Today At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com Join Clay Clark's Thrivetime Show Business Workshop!!! Learn Branding, Marketing, SEO, Sales, Workflow Design, Accounting & More. **Request Tickets & See Testimonials At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com **Request Tickets Via Text At (918) 851-0102 See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/