Podcasts about finance director

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of Financial Transformation Live, Neil Lynchehaun, Head of Transformation and Delivery at itas, takes you through a practical, experience-driven guide to understanding and improving the Purchase-to-Pay (P2P) process.You'll discover:Why we use maturity models and how they can inspire achievable steps forward.How to evaluate the impact of process improvements across:The full scope of the P2P process, including:Master data creation and maintenanceThe 5 maturity levels from basic transaction recording to strategic process leverage.Real-world characteristics and examples of each maturity stage.Insights into practical tools and enablers, including supplier portals, OCR, and dynamic discounting.Strategic tips for driving better supplier relationships, optimising working capital, and protecting your financial operations.Links mentioned:Previous session: Improving the Quote-to-Cash ProcessConnect with Hannah MunroConnect with Neil LynchehaunWhich Sage Product is Right For You Quiz!Book a discovery call  Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Watch on YouTube In this fascinating interview, CEO Adam Holland & Group Finance Director Will Wilkins of Mpac take me through today's record FY'24 results and ‘in line' outlook – including: 00:00 Mpac's core markets, USPs and growth drivers 02:50 Progress wrt integrating Mpac's 3 acquisitions in H2'24 07:40 Financial highlights 11:20 Q1'25 trading and FY'25 revenue cover 17:35 New product launches and future development 20:50 Pension 21:45 Closing remarks

We hear from Boro's Chairman, Finance Director, Manager & Fans a week on from the news of the new pitch delay as the town comes out in force to send a message that Scarborough Athletic IS vital to this community. Hosted by Paddy Billington

Send us your thoughtsThis episode kicks off our new CFO 4.0 series exploring the first 100 days in a CFO role. Host Hannah Munro is joined by experienced CFO and coach Jeremy Earnshaw, who shares practical, battle-tested guidance on navigating the critical first 30 days in a new CFO position. Key topics coveredMaking a strong first impression and shifting from finance specialist to strategic leaderWhy liquidity is non-negotiable and how to validate cash flow assumptions earlyHow to uncover hidden issues in the balance sheet and financial controlsEngaging with stakeholders and building credibility across the businessLeading your team with clarity, consistency and high expectationsCommon missteps new CFOs make and how to avoid themLinks mentioned:Jeremy's LinkedinLearn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Jose Salas is Reebok's Finance Director for Latin America (South & Central) and the Caribbean. He joins the show to share his broad experience across multiple functions in Consumer Goods, his recurring return to Finance, and why he sees the Finance function as a driver of growth and innovation—far from the tactical role it's often perceived to be. Tune in to hear about: His career path in Finance and cross-functional moves Why Finance sometimes gets a bad rap How Finance can be a powerful partner for growth and innovation Collaborating effectively with other functions The impact of the data revolution on Finance More Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fmcgguys/   Audio Mixing by Rodrigo Chávez Voice Acting by Jason Martorell Parsekian  

Send us your thoughtsIn this inspiring and practical episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro welcomes back Susana Serrano-Davey—career mentor, leadership trainer, and author of the newly released Confidence is Overrated. Drawing from her journey from CFO to mentor and author, Susana shares powerful insights on how senior finance leaders can develop the soft skills essential for leadership success.In this episode, Hannah and Susana explore:Why confidence is often misunderstood—and how to support yourself through self-doubtHow to spot unhelpful behaviours that undermine your confidencePhysical signs of stress and how to manage them in high-pressure environmentsWhy active listening is a critical skill for CFOs and how to improve itThe importance of finding your voice and knowing which battles to pickA framework for having productive, high-stakes conversations at workLetting go of control to become more influential in leadership Links mentioned: Susana's LinkedinDiscover Susana's work hereRead Susanna's new book; Self-Confidence Is Overrated Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

“Talking to people from different disciplines pushes your thinking about your assumptions, going out and listening to what other people are doing helps inform the way that you creatively solve the problem that's in front of you. Leaders often are scared by some of these ideas that are coming out of their workforce and that's why they're shutting them down. But if you can demonstrate yourself to be receptive to ideas, then you can help guide a creative future.” Telle Whitney on Electric Ladies Podcast Massive innovation is crucial to meet the scale of the climate crisis, but achieving this is increasingly challenging due to current political and social undercurrents. How can organizations innovate, and how can people within these organizations come together to brainstorm, bringing ideas of their own and improving on others? According to Telle Whitney, innovation must be an intentional, concerted effort that organizations actively adopt. Listen to Telle Whitney, Cofounder of the renowned Anita Borg Institute for Women in Technology & the Grace Hopper Conference – and one of Fast Company's most influential women in technology – on Electric Ladies Podcast. Launching her latest book, Rebooting Tech Culture: How to Ignite Innovation and Build Organizations Where Everyone Can Thrive, Telle joins Joan to discuss how organizations and leaders can cultivate the culture of innovation and creativity so critical to addressing the climate crisis. You'll hear about: The critical role culture plays in driving innovation. Why we must dispel the myth of the "lone genius". Telle's 6Cs for building a culture of innovation. How leaders can encourage courage and risk-taking. Plus, career advice specifically for women in engineering. “To take your career to the next level, learning how to tell your story and what you want is an important skill. [One thing] I probably get from mid-career women more than anything else is the belief that ‘if I do good work, it will be recognised'. That is simply not true. Being able to say, I did this great work, and to be able to tell that to your manager or to the company leader – it is as important as the product development itself.”  Telle Whitney on Electric Ladies Podcast Read Joan's Forbes articles here. Zara Summers, Chief Science Officer at LanzaTech about innovative ways that recovered carbon is making its way back into our daily lives. Autumn Huskins, Finance Director at Hitachi Zosen Inova (HZI), a waste-to-energy plant converting agricultural and food waste into electricity. Doreen Harris, President/CEO of New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA), on energy innovation for decades into the future. Sue Ozdemir, CEO of Exro Technologies, on whether big companies can innovate. Read: Insights from women about driving innovation in a purpose-led economy. More from Electric Ladies Podcast! HAPPENING NEXT WEEK! Join us at The Earth Day Women's Summit on April 22, 2025, in Dallas, Texas! Register today with the code “EDWS” for the Women's Summit and a special rate. Elevate your career with expert coaching and ESG advisory with Electric Ladies Podcast. Unlock new opportunities, gain confidence, and achieve your career goals with the right guidance. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive our podcasts, articles, events and career advice – and special coaching offers. Thanks for subscribing on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio and Spotify and leaving us a review! Don't forget to follow us on our socials Twitter: @joanmichelson LinkedIn: Electric Ladies Podcast with Joan Michelson Twitter: @joanmichelson Facebook: Green Connections Radio

“We've worked with partners like AcelorMittal… and oil and gas refineries. Emissions that would've been destined for the atmosphere are piped into our bioreactor and our magnificent microbes turn that gas into ethanol. When we pull out that ethanol, we can send it a lot of different places. You can go to On, Adidas, Athleta and buy products made by these mighty microbes from steel mill emissions. We actually flew a Virgin Atlantic flight from Orlando to London with 50 percent of the fuel in that plane made from our ethanol.” Zara Summers on Electric Ladies Podcast  Addressing the climate crisis involves confronting some enormous challenges, from decarbonizing aviation to reducing fashion's carbon footprint. Fortunately, technology and innovation provide an opportunity to make significant strides forward. Meet LanzaTech, a company turning carbon dioxide into the raw materials and energy we need for our lives. Listen to Zara Summers, Chief Science Officer at LanzaTech, as she explains how the company is harnessing the power of nature's oldest metabolism, the mighty microbe. This innovation is turning greenhouse gases into everyday materials like shoes and clothing, sustainable aviation fuel for our jets, and even fish feed! You'll hear about: How LanzaTech transforms captured industrial emissions into valuable materials and fuels. The global brands working with LanzaTech (and how you can spot fabrics made from recycled emissions). How the technology is driving a circular economy in fashion and textiles. The uses of LanzaTech's protein-rich biomass in food and feed. Plus, advice on making a career transition. “Just jump in. Because even if it crashes and burns, it's experience and you learn no matter up and down inside it. But if you keep doing the same thing you've always done, you're robbing yourself of those opportunities. Even small risks – putting your hand up for a project where you might know 20 percent of what it takes to do it. Gosh, isn't that the best way to motivate yourself to learn something new?”  Zara Summers on Electric Ladies Podcast Read Joan's Forbes articles here. You'll also like: Autumn Hustins, Finance Director at Hitachi Zosen Inova (HZI), a waste-to-energy plant converting agricultural and food waste into electricity. Björk Kristjánsdóttir, COO/CFO of Carbon Recycling International, on turning CO2 into valuable products. Doreen Harris, President and CEO of NYSERDA, a state program deploying innovative climate solutions. UN Climate Week discussion on how some creative women are making sustainable fashion a reality, moderated by Joan Michelson. Kerry Bannigan, Managing Director of PVBLIC Foundation, on sustainability and social responsibility on the runway. More from Electric Ladies Podcast! Join us at The Earth Day Women's Summit on April 22, 2025, in Dallas, Texas! Register today with the code “EDWS” for the Women's Summit and a special rate.  Elevate your career with expert coaching and ESG advisory with Electric Ladies Podcast. Unlock new opportunities, gain confidence, and achieve your career goals with the right guidance. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive our podcasts, articles, events and career advice – and special coaching offers. Thanks for subscribing on Apple Podcasts or iHeartRadio and leaving us a review!  Don't forget to follow us on our socials Twitter: @joanmichelson LinkedIn: Electric Ladies Podcast with Joan Michelson Twitter: @joanmichelson Facebook: Green Connections Radio

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro speaks with Gemma Doran, CFO at Savea Technology Ltd, about the realities of leading finance in high-growth SMEs. From her unexpected start in journalism to managing multi-million-pound fundraises, Gemma reflects on what it takes to thrive as a CFO in fast-moving environments, how to balance optimism with realism in forecasting, and why adaptability and clarity are vital when raising capital.In this episode, Gemma discussesHer career journey from politics and journalism to finance leadershipThe pros and cons of different funding types, including SAFE and ASAWhy micro-level cashflow management is essential in SMEsThe true cost and complexity of fundraising for growthForecasting with flexibility in uncertain economic climatesThe importance of team development, communication and stakeholder buy-inLinks mentionedGemma's Linkedin  Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Empire Metals Ltd (OTCQB: EPMLF) an exploration and resource development company with a primary focus on developing Pitfield, an emerging giant titanium project in Western Australia. Shaun Bunn, CEO and Managing Director of Empire Metals, along with Gregory Kuenzel, CFO and Finance Director, join us to share insights into their new project in Australia, which positions the company to broaden its industry presence globally as demand for Titanium continues to rise.

 Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views of the Town of La Plata. This is the second podcast series about the Town Council's review of the FY 2026 Operating, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), and Enterprise Funds (water, sewer, sanitation, stormwater management) proposed budgets. This episode is about the Town Council's second review of the proposed Operating Budget, and first review of two proposed draft versions of FY 26 Enterprise Funds (Water, Sewer, Sanitation, Stormwater Management, with the 457 Deferred Compensation, and with Pension, plan, from the March 25, 2025, Town Council meeting.  The draft Enterprise budgets were emailed to the Council at 11:35 AM on Friday, March 21, 2025. I emailed my initial Enterprise draft budget comments and questions to the Finance Director and Town Council on Sunday, March 23, 2025. The sources for this podcast/video are materials provided to the Town Council for those items on the published Town Council agenda and posted to the public and emailed to the Council, Friday, March 21, 2025. The Finance Committee provided additional information to the Town Council at the meeting. Finance Comm materials 25mar25 *Fact Sheet: The State of US Public Pensions in 2024 *Sources for 457 (b) Vs Pension Plan Comparison La Plata YouTube – March 25, 2025, Town Council meeting  *Monthly Finance Report – Finance Director Larsen –  Minute 10:18 *Finance Committee Discussion /FY 2026 Enterprise Budgets Discussion – Minute 28:12 La Plata Ward 4 Update YouTube Video

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of Financial Transformation Live, Hannah Munro dives into the critical steps for effective process mapping and how it can drive successful financial transformation. Discover practical insights on simplifying complexity and ensuring your processes are future-ready.Key takeaways include:The importance of involving sales, CRM, and IT leadership in process evaluations.How to identify, map, and validate use cases before redesigning processes.Strategies to prioritise high-impact areas and manage process exceptions.Why future-proofing your processes is essential for growth and scalability.Best practices for facilitating and documenting process mapping sessions.Tools for effective digital documentation and why real-time collaboration matters.Links mentioned:March FTL: Financial Transformation Live: Improving the Quote-to-Cash ProcessRevisit previous Financial Transformation Live  sessions Getting started with mapping out your finance processesWhy Salesforce Users Love Sage Intacct | On-Demand WebinarThe Getting Started Guide: Streamlining your Finance Processes Automate your finance processes with Sage Intacct | On-Demand WebinarCFO 4.0 Monthly BriefingFinancial Transformation Live Feedback survey Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

#227 How to Choose the Right Tech Stack Without Wasting Money with Tim Cadbury https://open.spotify.com/episode/4mVO2Gtl2Vx5bQmDNuWfTi In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, selecting the right technology stack is critical for organizational success and financial efficiency. The strategic selection of technological tools can make or break a company's operational effectiveness, directly impacting its growth trajectory and competitive positioning. This podcast episode featuring Tim Cadbury, a fractional CFO at InfiniteCFO, delves deep into the nuanced world of tech stack selection for high-growth businesses. Cadbury brings a wealth of experience from corporate giants like ITV and the dynamic startup ecosystem, offering listeners invaluable insights into navigating the complex terrain of technological infrastructure selection. Key discussion points revolve around the challenges businesses face when choosing technological solutions, the importance of scalability, and the need for adaptable systems that can grow with an organization. Cadbury emphasizes that tech stack selection is not a one-size-fits-all approach but a strategic decision requiring careful consideration of current needs and future growth potential. The conversation provides a comprehensive exploration of how fractional CFOs like Cadbury help businesses make informed technological investments, leveraging their extensive experience and understanding of various industry ecosystems. By sharing practical examples and strategic approaches, the podcast offers a roadmap for businesses seeking to optimize their technological investments without unnecessary expenditure. About Tim Cadbury Tim supports high growth businesses with a CFO-led virtual finance function. In his 3 years at InfiniteCFO, he's helped businesses in B2B SaaS, Cyber, LegalTech, AdTech, InsureTech, and Software. Successful projects include fundraises, M&A and finance transformations. Previously, Tim spent 13 years at ITV plc, including roles in Investor Relations, as Group Head of FP&A and as Finance Director for the £2bn advertising business. He spent 4 years out of finance growing the technology business SDN to >£65m profit, which included negotiating all commercial contracts and running the tech team. He was also a Director of D34, a joint venture with Channel 4 which transmits all the UK's commercial Public Service Broadcasters.  Tim qualified as an ACA with KPMG London. Key topics covered: Fractional CFO approach to supporting high-growth technology businesses Strategic importance of selecting scalable technological infrastructure Leveraging Xero and complementary ecosystem tools for financial management Role of AI and automation in streamlining repetitive financial tasks Importance of understanding business-specific technological requirements Balancing current technological needs with future growth potential Navigating fundraising and due diligence with robust technological systems Developing comprehensive financial strategies through intelligent tech selection Continuous learning and adaptation in technological ecosystem Value of professional networks in making informed technological decisions https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auEV4K6aMyE&t=2s Links Tim Cadbury  on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:05:59 - Professional background introduction 0:10:38 - Career progression at ITV 0:16:50 - Transition to fractional CFO role 0:22:13 - Tech stack selection strategies 0:28:48 - Scalability of financial systems 0:34:18 - Comprehensive financial operations approach 0:37:03 - Fundraising landscape insights 0:40:22 - Impact of professional development programs 0:45:09 - Future career perspective Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app.

In this week’s edition, Richland Source Deputy Managing Editor Carl Hunnell sits down with City of Mansfield Finance Director Kelly Blankenship to talk about the finances in the city... and the upcoming tax filing deadline. He is also joined by Nan McCartney and Sandy Messner, two participants with ideas coming out of Mansfield Rising 2.0. Read their stories at the links below, scroll down to the bottom and provide feedback! Mansfield Rising's Ideas of March: Housing First for Mansfield Mansfield Rising's Ideas of March: Launch a Digital Trauma Support Resource Hunnell is also joined by Executive Producer Zac Hiser and videographer Grant Ritchey to talk about the news of the day, including a trio of live-saving Galion police officers, a $250,000 Richland County Foundation grant to refurbish and revitalize the historic Vasbinder Fountain in Mansfield's Central Park, and local law enforcement participation in the Blue Envelope project to improve communications with local drivers with autism. Relevant links: - Life-saving Galion police officers - Revitalization of historic Vasbinder Fountain - Blue Envelope project Intro song credit: Smoke And Drink, by Luke Watson. Be a Source Member for unlimited access to local, independent journalism. Use code PAWS25 at checkout through March 31 for 25% OFF an annual membership.Support the show: https://richlandsource.com/membersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is a question: how many ways are there to pay your advertising agency? No, this is not a joke or a riddle.  Although, the fact that the advertising industry considers itself a “creative” industry and the dominant way they are paid is still the same as labourers and unskilled workers (that is by the hour), is a joke. To discuss this issue and explore the many ways they can be paid, please welcome back to the Managing Marketing Podcast, the commercially savvy, hands-on Finance Director, a CPA with more than two decades of experience managing the finances of media, creative, PR agencies and more, Nick Hand. Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/managing-marketing/id1018735190  Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/75mJ4Gt6MWzFWvmd3A64XW?si=a3b63c66ab6e4934  Listen on Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/managing-marketing  Listen on Podbean: https://managingmarketing.podbean.com/  For more episodes of TrinityP3's Managing Marketing podcast, visit https://www.trinityp3.com/managing-marketing-podcasts/  Recorded live on Zoom and edited, mixed and managed by JML Audio with thanks to Jared Lattouf.

Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views of the Town of La Plata. This is the first in a series of podcasts about the Town Council's review of the FY 2026 Operating, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and Enterprise Funds (water, sewer, sanitation, stormwater management) proposed budgets. This episode is about the Town Council's first review of two proposed draft versions of the FY 26 Operating Budget, at our March 18, 2025, Town Council meeting.  Operating budget options:*FY 2026 Operating Budget – With 457  *FY 2026 Operating Budget With Pension These were provided to the Council by email at 4:47 PM on Friday, March 14, 2025. This was followed by Council questions and discussion. No vote was taken, and Council discussion will continue at our March 25 Council meeting.   I emailed comments and questions to the Town Council and Finance Director at 7:39 PM on Monday, March 17, 2025.  The source for this podcast/video is the materials provided to the Town Council for those items on published March 18, 2025. Town Council agenda was posted to the public and emailed to the Council, on Friday, March 14, 2025.Council discussion of the two alternative draft operating budgets will continue at the March 25 (Tuesday) Town Council meeting and two alternative (with 457, with pension) Enterprise Fund budgets. Fiance Committee RecommendationsMarch 18, 2025, Town Council Meeting YouTube Finance Committee Recommendations Discussion/Questions - 8:50Town Council Operating Budget Discussion/Questions - 56:27

“We're giving [companies] the avenue to take something that historically has been an inconvenience and turn that into an opportunity to make them some money, whether that be selling energy to the grid, or putting energy back into the operations of their facilities. So, what could have cost them money in the past can now be a huge benefit. At the same time, you're doing something great for the world and our future.” Autumn Huskins on Electric Ladies Podcast Addressing climate change presents two big questions: How do we reduce waste and keep it out of landfills, and how can we power our electricity-dependent economy without exacerbating climate change? An innovative waste-to-energy technology in San Luis Obispo, California is diverting waste from landfills, creating exciting new revenue streams – and even helping make wine! Listen to Autumn Hustins, Finance Director at Hitachi Zosen Inova (HZI), as she explores a renewable energy source that is providing clean power to ~600,000 homes and businesses in the local economy, with plans to grow. You'll hear about: How Hitachi Zosen Inova's waste-to-energy plant is converting agricultural and food waste into electricity for the local grid. New revenue streams that waste-to-energy innovations create for business and local communities. Impact of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) on the adoption of waste-to-energy projects. How the green energy transition is creating new jobs in places previously reliant on fossil fuels. Plus, the secret to a great career is surprisingly simple. "You go to work every day in the job that you're in. You do your absolute best. You give your all to that particular position, and the positions will follow. I don't care what your role is. I don't care if you're the janitor or the CEO, I think you approach the job the same way and do the best that you can possibly do, and it'll work out.” Autumn Huskins on Electric Ladies Podcast Read Joan's Forbes articles here. You'll also like: ICWS Webinar, Joan Michelson moderates an enlightening webinar with top leaders on The Future of the Energy Transition and the Grid. Gauri Singh, Deputy Director General of the International Renewable Energy Agency, on the deployment of clean energy around the world. Björk Kristjánsdóttir, COO/CFO of Carbon Recycling International, on turning CO2 into valuable products. Bethia Burke, President of The Fund For Our Economic Future, on the impact of green jobs on local economies. Vanessa Chan, former Chief Commercialization Officer of the Department of Energy, on funding the transition to clean energy. More from Electric Ladies Podcast!  Join us at The Earth Day Women's Summit on April 22, 2025, in Dallas, Texas! Register today with the code “EDWS” for the Women's Summit and a special rate. Elevate your career with expert coaching and ESG advisory with Electric Ladies Podcast. Unlock new opportunities, gain confidence, and achieve your career goals with the right guidance. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive our podcasts, articles, events and career advice – and special coaching offers. Thanks for subscribing on Apple Podcasts or iHeartRadio and leaving us a review! Don't forget to follow us on our socials Twitter: @joanmichelson LinkedIn: Electric Ladies Podcast with Joan Michelson Twitter: @joanmichelson Facebook: Green Connections Radio

Andrew joined QBE as Group Chief Executive Officer in September 2021. With a strong focus on bringing the enterprise together, Andrew has driven performance consistency and progress towards QBE's vision to become the most consistent and innovative risk partner. He was previously the CEO, and before that the Finance Director, of Beazley Group, a specialist international insurer based in the United Kingdom. Prior to this, he held various senior finance roles in ING, NatWest and Lloyds Bank. Andrew's career in insurance and banking spans more than 30 years and he has extensive experience across international markets. Highlights from the Show Sustainable Profitable Growth Andrew emphasizes the importance of sustainable growth in the insurance industry, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to risk and pricing models. He discusses the pitfalls of rapid growth without considering long-term consequences, stressing that growth should be managed sensibly. Innovation and Client Focus The conversation touches on the necessity for the insurance industry to listen to clients and innovate based on their needs. Andrew mentions QBE's commitment to integrating innovation within the company, ensuring that all teams are aligned with customer needs. Mitigation Strategies Andrew discusses the need for the insurance industry to adapt to new normals, particularly in the context of natural disasters【4:2†source】. He advocates for building back better after catastrophic events, rather than simply restoring properties to their previous state. Market Viability and Affordability The episode explores the challenges of maintaining market viability amidst rising costs and the need for affordable insurance. Andrew reflects on the balance between providing coverage and ensuring that it remains accessible to clients. Diversification and Growth Opportunities Andrew discusses the importance of diversification in insurance offerings, particularly in niche markets. He highlights QBE's strategy of exploring smaller, specialized markets that can contribute to overall growth. Overall Takeaways Balance is Key: Sustainable growth in insurance requires a careful balance of risk management and innovation. Client-Centric Approach: Listening to clients and adapting to their needs is crucial for long-term success in the insurance industry. Proactive Mitigation: The industry must focus on proactive strategies to mitigate risks associated with natural disasters and changing environments. Affordability Matters: Ensuring that insurance remains affordable is essential for maintaining market viability. Embrace Diversification: Exploring niche markets and diversifying offerings can lead to meaningful growth opportunities. This episode is brought to you by The Future of Insurance thought leadership series, available globally from Amazon in print, Kindle and Audible audiobook. Follow the podcast at future-of-insurance.com/podcast for more details and other episodes. Music courtesy of Hyperbeat Music, available to stream or download on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music and more.

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro speaks with Stuart Mellis, CFO of Optalysis, about his journey to CFO, the challenges of scaling deep tech startups, and navigating fundraising, investor relations, and financial planning in an emerging market.Key topics covered:Private equity vs venture capital – key differences in expectations and investment approachesManaging investor relationships – balancing trust, communication, and transparencyFundraising in deep tech – navigating challenges and pitching to the right investorsFinancial planning & budgeting – setting realistic growth targets in an emerging marketAdvice for new CFOs – the importance of coaching, board management, and asking the right questionsLinks mentioned:Stuart's Linkedin Learn more about Optalysis Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

About The GuestsKaren Glass is part of the Advisory of AmblesideOnline. She has four children, ages 13 to 27, who have been homeschooled using Charlotte Mason's methods from beginning to end.  Karen has been studying and writing about Charlotte Mason and Classical Education for over twenty years and has written the popular books Consider This: Charlotte Mason and The Classical Tradition,  Know and Tell: The Art of Narration, In Vital Harmony, and her newest book A Thinking Love: Studies from Charlotte Mason's Home Education.Dr. Robert Terry has over twenty years of experience in classical education. He has been a teacher of multiple disciplines, a curriculum designer, and has worked extensively in teacher training and development. He has served as the Curriculum Director and Vice President of Academics at a multi-campus University-model classical Christian school in the Dallas area. While academic head he successfully accomplished two ACCS accreditations. Before discovering classical education, Robert was a CPA. He has also served his school as a Finance Director in the past. Robert holds an MA in Philosophy focusing on the great Christian texts and a Doctorate focused on the work of the Oxford Inklings. He has been married to Elisabeth for twenty-five years and has been active in homeschooling their four grown children.Show NotesOn this episode, my guests discuss the important connections that Mason made from reading Samuel Taylor Coleridge's On Method. We discuss how important this connection is to her philosophy, as well as how it has had an impact on the classical education movement. Some important discussion points include:The poet's influence on MasonThe revitalization of Shakespeare, wonder, and a curiosity framework in educationA deep understanding of ideas and making relational connectionsMethod as it is tied to a pedagogyMason's method of a lesson and how to properly interpret her 20 principlesReason for caution: Why reading Charlotte Mason in part can be misleading ResourcesIf you want to read Coleridge, Karen Glass recommends this version. It is a facsimile of the same version that Mason had in her PNEU library: A Dissertation On The Science Of Method ISBN:  978-1018198736Karen's blog on Coleridge and Mason Connections: https://www.karenglass.net/page/2/?s=coleridgeConnections with Coleridge #1—A nod from Charlotte MasonConnections with Coleridge #2—Introducing Treatise on MethodConnections with Coleridge #3—Law and OrderConnections with Coleridge #3.5—A Speculative DetourConnections with Coleridge #4—Dipping into MethodConnections with Coleridge #5—In Pursuit of MethodConnections with Coleridge #6—Meet the PhilosophersConnections with Coleridge #7—Laws, Ideas, and TruthConnections with Coleridge #8—A short history of the education of mankindConnections with Coleridge #9—In Search of the SoulConnections with Coleridge #10—A Few Final WordsTreatise On Method: ColeridgeThe Rime of the Ancient Mariner: Coleridge Kuala Khan: ColeridgeShakespeareFrancis BaconPlatoC.S. LewisTolkienQuintilion Pascal ____________________Beautiful Teaching (BT) Resources:BT online webinars, interactive courses, and book studies registration: https://beautifulteaching.coursestorm.com/BT Newsletters: https://www.beautifulteaching.com/newsletters________________________________________________________This podcast is produced by Beautiful Teaching, LLC.Support this podcast: ★ Support this podcast ★ _________________________________________________________Credits:Sound Engineer: Andrew HelselLogo Art: Anastasiya CFMusic: Vivaldi's Concerto for 2 Violins in B flat major, RV529 : Lana Trotovsek, violin Sreten Krstic, violin with Chamber Orchestra of Slovenian Philharmonic © 2025 Beautiful Teaching LLC. All Rights Reserve

In this episode of Full Disclosure, we share an extraordinary story of resilience, leadership, and community effort in the face of disaster. Our hosts, Tyler Traudt and Nina Enholm, are joined by Melissa Moore, CFO of Buncombe County, and Matt Evans, Financial Planning & Analysis Manager, as they recount their experiences navigating the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated Western North Carolina. Melissa and Matt share personal and professional accounts of the storm's impact, from the harrowing challenges of managing emergency operations without communication systems to ensuring that first responders were fed, roads were cleared, and resources were distributed. Melissa reflects on stepping into her role at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) while Matt describes the importance of documenting every expense for FEMA reimbursement and the painstaking process of modeling the financial impacts of the disaster on the county's tax base. This episode shows the remarkable spirit of the Buncombe County community, where residents and local businesses rallied with heavy equipment, supplies, and sheer determination to assist in rescue and recovery efforts.  Episode Images Featured Guests Melissa Moore is the Finance Director for Buncombe County Government, bringing over 15 years of experience in public finance and local government to her role. Since stepping into this position in September 2023, Melissa has focused on advancing financial strategies, managing government bonds, and ensuring sound budgetary processes that align with the County's goals. Prior to her current role, Melissa served as the Director of Finance for the City of Pflugerville, Texas, where she oversaw financial operations for over two years. Her extensive career includes key positions such as Assistant Director of Finance for the City of San Marcos, Texas, and Finance Program Manager at CPS Energy, one of the largest municipally-owned utilities in the nation. Matt Evans, MPA, CLGBO, is the Financial Planning & Analysis Manager at Buncombe County Government, where he oversees debt issuance, financial forecasting, and the implementation of fiscal regulations to ensure the County's financial health. With almost ten years of experience at Buncombe County, Matt has spearheaded initiatives ranging from managing multi-million-dollar grants to leading strategic financial planning and risk mitigation efforts. An expert in public finance, Matt has presented on government reporting at the national Workday Rising conference and is a certified Workday Financials power user. He holds a Master of Public Affairs from Western Carolina University, where he was recognized as Public Management Student of the Year, and is passionate about driving innovation and efficiency in local government finance.

Send us your thoughtsIn this third instalment of the Mastering M&A series, Hannah Munro is joined by Jeremy Earnshaw, Founding Director of Clarendon and experienced CFO, to delve into the complexities of business disposals. Key topics discussed:The difference between being sought out by a buyer vs proactively seeking a sale.Essential preparations for making your business attractive to potential acquirersThe critical role of the CFO in managing the disposal process and overseeing data flow.The importance of establishing good buyer relationships Deal structures: earn-outs, share exchanges, and the implications for sellers.Warranties, indemnities, and legal considerations The cultural and operational implications of a sale for the management team and employees. Links mentioned:Jeremy's LinkedinLearn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro is joined by Alwyn Jones, Group CFO at Luno and returning guest on the podcast. Alwyn shares his journey of broadening his perspective by stepping into a Non-Executive Director (NED) role and reflects on how it has shaped his leadership approach. This engaging conversation covers a range of topics, including:The evolving responsibilities of CFOsKey insights into the dynamics of a Non-Exec role,The challenges and surprises of stepping into a Non-Exec roleAdvice for aspiring NEDs, including tips on networking.Reflections on how the NED role has enriched his perspective and improved his effectiveness as a CFO.Links mentioned in this podcast:Connect with Alwyn Jones on LinkedInLearn more about Luno Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

In this episode, we will discuss creating stronger family bonds. Family dynamics can often be a double-edged sword when it comes to stress. On one hand, family relationships can be a source of tension—whether from conflicts, misunderstandings, or the pressures of meeting expectations. On the other hand, family is frequently our sanctuary during difficult times. They provide a sense of belonging, emotional support, and a foundation for resilience when stress becomes overwhelming.  You can read her full article 'Resilient Families: Creating a Stronger Family Bond' in the winter issue of Contentment magazine. Nancy Jernigan, PhD, LPC, FAIS, is an internationally recognized leader and educator known for leadership development and developing healthy teams amid growth and change. She is the President and co-founder of Hidden Value Group, LLC, and serves as a Board Member and Finance Director for Olive Branch International, Inc. Together, the two organizations provide healthcare, education, leadership development, and family support in risk and conflict zones on three continents.  Nancy gets personally involved internationally in teaching and training as a mental wellness expert, treating trauma and stress disorders. As an executive coach, leadership expert, and educator, she is passionate about developing and multiplying leaders. Nancy is also the co-author of Thin Spaces: Recognizing When God Breaks Through, which just released. She has also written for Contentment magazine which The American Institute of Stress publishes, and she has been a Fellow with AIS since 2024.

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro is joined by Richard Sanders, Founder and Managing Partner of Sullivan Street Partners, for the second instalment in our The Private Equity CFO series. Together, they delve into the complexities of private equity and its implications for CFOs.Key topics covered include:Exploring the balance between capability and comfort zone, and what CFOs can do to prove their value.How private equity-backed businesses differ in their expectations for timely, actionable financial data.Insights into cash flow management, covenant models, and other critical reporting differences.From diagnosing the state of the business to building trust with private equity partners, strategies for success in the first 100 days.Building trust, communicating effectively, and staying aligned with the investment strategy.Tactics for transparency, preparedness, and maintaining credibility under pressure. Links mentioned:Richard's LinkedinLearn more about Sullivan Street Partners Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro sits down with Danyaal Shah, CFO of Nokkel, to explore his unique journey from investment banking to becoming a strategic financial leader. Danyaal shares valuable insights into the evolving role of CFOs, offering actionable advice for those aiming to excel in financial leadership. Topics covered include:How his background in investment banking and M&A shaped his approach to the CFO role.Key steps to ensure your business is investor-readyHow to balance growth and profitability while keeping CAC under control.Why realistic scenarios and investor-friendly cash flow forecasts are essential for success.Insights into managing debt and aligning financial strategy with cash flow stability.Practical tips for those transitioning into the CFO role from non-traditional backgrounds.Links mentioned:Danyaal's LinkedinLearn more about Nokkel Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Four years into his 12-year career chapter at Amazon, Hetu Patel was appointed Finance Director for Prime—a role he credits with opening his eyes to strategic finance. In the days ahead Patel would be handed a milestone assignment, where he worked on a groundbreaking framework attributing the total value of Prime membership to each bundled benefit: video, music, books, and fast shipping. Collaborating with economics and business teams, he quantified how each offering affected purchase behavior and membership renewals, “Patel tells us.” This data-driven approach ultimately informed billions in investment decisions, illustrating how finance could reshape strategy, boost decision-making speed, and deliver transformative impact.Patel's nearly 12-year tenure at Amazon exposed him to operations, retail category development, and even a general manager role, sharpening his analytical skills and broadening his perspective on enterprise-wide connectivity. “Improving the quality and speed of decision-making is the most important role of finance,” Patel tells us. This belief guided him into his subsequent position as CFO at Imperfect Foods, where he further honed board relations, fundraising, and M&A capabilities.Today, Patel channels these cross-functional experiences into his role as CFO of Thrive Market, combining rigorous long-term planning with a mission-driven focus on healthy, sustainable living. Drawing on lessons from Amazon's culture of data-centricity, Patel emphasizes strategic foresight and clear performance metrics to guide decision-making.

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro welcomes back Jeremy Earnshaw, Founding Director of Clarendon, for the second instalment of the Mastering M&A series. Jeremy, a seasoned CFO coach and mentor, shares invaluable insights into structuring deals and preparing for a successful merger or acquisition. Join us as we explore:The key steps in structuring a deal, including understanding objectives, optimal exit strategies, and assessing readiness.The critical role of the CFO in managing the M&A process, from internal due diligence to project management.How to evaluate business value and address tax implications for potential buyers.Strategies to navigate due diligence, protect sensitive information, and negotiate effectively.The importance of preparing the organisation, including staff retention, contract management, and intellectual property.Top tips for CFOs to assess their readiness to sell and ensure a smooth transaction process. Links mentioned:Jeremy's LinkedinLearn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro speaks with Mark Blakemore, CFO at Compleat Software, about the unique challenges and opportunities of working in SaaS finance. Mark shares valuable insights from his 30+ year career in finance, offering a detailed look into the world of SaaS, including practical advice for CFOs and finance professionals aspiring to break into the sector.Key topics covered in this episode:Mark's journey to becoming a CFO and his transition from audit to SaaS finance.The evolution of SaaS models and the challenges of shifting from perpetual licences to recurring revenue.Key metrics for SaaS CFOs, including MQL-to-win ratios, CAC, and revenue growth levers.The importance of cross-functional collaboration with sales, marketing, and engineering teams.Lessons learned from managing cultural differences and communication challenges in international teams.Links mentioned:Mark's LinkedinLearn more about Compleat Software Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

“I transitioned into FP&A when I realized that it wasn't just about crunching the numbers, it was more about telling a story and trying to influence the future. Working with Fortune 100 companies has given me the fantastic platform to leave transformative projects in finance, procurement, and supply chain. I saw firsthand how FP&A acts as the strategic backbone of any type of organization” – Enrique Rodriguez, Finance Director, Walgreens Boots Alliance   Enrique Rodriguez is a multilingual finance director and business leader. With more than 15 years of experience in Fortune 100 companies, he has worked collaboratively with global functions directing FP&A, accounting and treasury teams. He's headed finance departments overseeing $7 billion in annual spend and managing operational budgets of up to $750 million in billion dollar business units and is a passionate believer in Zero Based Budgeting revealing how he implemented this – despite challenges. My background in Guatemala  When I realized it is not just about crunching the numbers  FP&A as the backbone of the institution  Main financial metrics bio biopharmaceutical companies, medical devices, and healthcare companies How FP&A departments are set up at the companies you worked for – and the philosophy and the outputs expected from FP&A producing outputs like dynamic scenario planning and  specific KPI dashboards  guiding decisions at the highest level. Zero based budgeting – the why and how of our experience  Biggest challenges I have seen in budgeting in my career – managing budgets during a turnaround How finance business partnering has changed in my career  The problem solving aspect of FP&A The opportunities and challenges of fast-growing technology  Saving $8million on inventory write-off in a country on a health product  Financial Executives International (Chicago) The power of a great mentor and books: Hit Refresh Satya Nadella (Microsoft) and Shoe Dog (Joe Knight) supporting a procurement organization in, in an early level of maturity – my toughest challenge  Index Match – more flexible and scalable for complex analysis  Connect with Enrique Rodriguez on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enrique-a-rodriguez/

144 - Ed Sweeney In episode 144 of “Have Guitar Will Travel”, presented by Vintage Guitar Magazine, host, James Patrick Regan speaks with guitarist and banjo player Ed Sweeney. In their conversation Ed tells us about his Christmas album “Inside Fezziwig's, the Spirit of Christmas Past”, my favorite Christmas Album. Ed has generously offered it as free as a download on his website through the end of the year. We're sure you will love it! Ed talks about his home life in Rhode Island, growing up in Lexington, Kentucky and his early musical education. As well as the many moves his family made while he was growing up. Ed discusses taking guitar lessons from the blind blues singer Paul Pena and becoming Providence College's first-ever music major. Ed tells us about the instruments he plays, 6- and 12-string guitar, 5-string banjo, and fretless banjo and the companies and people who made those instruments. Ed tells us how he hooked up with documentarian Ken Burns and with Disney which is quite remarkable. Ed also tells us about spending 14 years as Finance Director of Yo-Yo Ma's Silk Road Project. Ed discusses who he's listening too right now and who inspires him. Finally Ed talks about playing live shows and teaching lessons. You can find out all you'd like to know about Ed at his website edsweeneymusic.com and he's active on Facebook. Please subscribe, like, comment, share and review this podcast! #VintageGuitarMagazine #EdSweeney #EdSweeneyMusic #MartinGuitar #InsideFezziwigs #Christmas #ChristmasMusic #theDeadlies #Banjo #FretlessBanjo #haveguitarwilltravelpodcast #hgwt #HGWT . . . Please like, comment, and share this podcast! Download Link

The end of another year has rolled around in the blink of an eye! We've managed to publish a whopping 42 episodes this year, pushing us over the 200 episode mark.  We want to thank all our listeners, both old and new, for allowing us to continue to share both ISO tips and success stories from our wonderful clients. We hope you'll follow along as we continue our podcasting journey in 2025. To close out the year, Ian Battersby and Steve Mason share some of their stories of misadventures during audits, from common mistakes, to broom battles and forklift mishaps, they really have seen it all! Listen, laugh and learn what not to do during an audit. You'll learn ·      What not to do in an audit   Resources ·      Isologyhub   In this episode, we talk about: [02:05] Episode Summary – Ian and Steve share some of their experiences from their time as auditors. From common mistakes to outlandish situations that you'd have to see to believe, listen and learn what shouldn't happen during an audit.  [03:40] Lazy Copycats: Steve recounts a time where a company had copy and pasted their Management Review for years, which rightfully earned them a non-conformity. Ian shares a similar story where a construction company submitting a tender had copy pasted the content and included the wrong company name! The copying doesn't stop there, as Steve remembers a company Quality Manual that managed to include multiple company names. It was found that they'd simply copy and pasted example pages they'd found online that looked good, but didn't bother to update any of the content to be relevant to them. [06:30] Training Troubles – Ian recounts a time where he was auditing a subcontractor for a construction company that required a record of training. The induction was very important and obviously needed to be documented. When he checked the documents, though all the forms had different names, all the signatures suspiciously had the exact same handwriting! Turns out the Director was signing them all off, which is obviously in breach of a number of health and safety related regulations. [08:00] IT Security slip-ups – Steve recounts a time where a Finance Director had good intentions, but poorly implemented his idea. The Finance Director didn't trust their IT system back-up and instead backed-up all his information on a memory stick. Steve had pointed out the flaws with this, such as losing the memory stick, data getting corrupted ect. It just simply isn't a safe or reliable way to store such important information. [09:05] Disconnected Leadership – Ian shares a time where an auditor caught the lack of leadership commitment to their management system. Despite it being a very nice looking management system by all accounts, the cracks showed enough for an outsider to spot the flaws. Steve adds that sometimes, you can over engineer a management system to a point past useful. It needs to work for your business, otherwise people will work around it to get what they need done. Steve had a rather obvious example if this when he required a chat with a member of leadership, who refused on the day initially, despite it being scheduled for 6 months. The person relented a few minutes over lunch where he posed his complete commitment to BS 5750 – A standard that existed 20 years ago and had since been replaced by ISO 9001. Very telling for his level of ‘commitment'. As we have covered in a previous episode – Leadership commitment is imperative to a successful management system. [11:40] Skip Diving for Secrets – Steve shares his experience of conducting a skip diving exercise, which is following a document waste trail. At a certain company, they ended up looking in an actual skip only to find what looked like a lot of confidential documents, when questioned someone had said that they looked like they belonged in the CEO's filing cabinet. When questioned, the CEO remarked ‘I didn't want you to catch me with anything that I shouldn't have, so I threw it all out last night'. This warranted a non-conformity as anyone could have gone past and fished out that confidential information just as Steve had. Ian also adds a time where he worked in the NHS and a local hospital had an accident where a lot of confidential medical files ended up scattered across the floor. These were documents that should have been disposed of securely. [14:05] PPE? You've got to be kidding me! – Ian recounts a time working for a manufacturing company that was part of a large international firm. Their UK operation had to abide by strict PPE requirements, proper shoes, eye protection ect. It was something that everyone on the premises had to adhere to. One day, a Director walked in with none of the PPE which was clearly labelled on many of the signs decorating the shop floor. He had incorrectly assumed that because of his position, he could walk around with no PPE whatsoever. Fortunately the shop floor supervisor set him right and sent him to get properly suited up. [15:35] Data Centre security says no – Steve recalls a time when a member of top management went to visit one of their own data centre's, on getting to the gate the security had told him ‘I don't care who you are, your name isn't on the list so you're not getting in.' That person hadn't gone through the process of being approved for entry. Yet, predictably, they sent complaints everywhere, but the head of the UK branch had quite rightly praised the security personnel for simply following protocol. [16:55] Private bank details? Don't mind if I do! – While Steve was auditing physcial security for an office, a printer ended up printing the payroll of every employee at the business. This wasn't in a private room, this was in the middle of the office, so anybody could walk up and see bank account details and salaries! When questioned, it turned out their Finance Director was working from home, and hadn't bothered to contacts anyone to retrieve the documents. So unsurprisingly, they received a non-conformity. [19:55] Do not goad the auditor -  A bit of advice from Steve “Never say ‘this is our most secure room' to an auditor” – that is essentially a challenge, and one that you'll likely lose if you don't follow your own processes. Steve put this to the test when someone had claimed only 3 people had access to a certain room. Out of curiosity, Steve used his visitor badge to gain entry, and asked if he was included in that 3. Obviously he wasn't, and this was simply down to access control being a bit muddled at that particular company. [21:25] Mistaken Identity: Steve recalls a time when he was given a visitors badge with a completely different person as the photograph. It had no effect on the correct access rights, but amusing all the same. He shares another story where he shared a waiting room with another Steve. When they called only the first name, the other Steve was taken into that business and questioned on ISO, to which the poor man had to inform them that he had no idea what they were talking about! Shortly after, the correct Steve was collected. But it goes to show how important it is to ensure you're giving access to the right people. [24:20] Battle of the Broomsticks: Ian recalls another time when working in construction, when he had the opportunity to work at a horse racecourse. They were looking to achieve what was OHSAS 18001 at the time (now known as ISO 45001), and it was going so well until a few new hires came running across the stable yard wielding 2 brooms, battling like gladiators in view of their auditor. Thankfully they weren't really harming each other, but it was enough for the auditor to raise a few questions about subcontractor controls. You really couldn't write the timing any better (or worse, I suppose!). [26:15] Clearly a certified forklift driver:  While Steve was working at a warehouse, the manager there stressed how well trained all of their forklift drivers were, how sensible they all were. Though, Steve could see a person dancing, speeding and popping wheelies with his forklift over the managers shoulder. After he'd been alerted to the wannbe stunt driver, the manager went to have a word with them. [27:30] Accidents don't happen after 5pm: Ian was working at a company that highly valued the use of PPE on-site, everyone did a good job of abiding by that, until it came to the end of the day. One person leaves across the shop floor in just a normal t-shirt and jeans, waving them all off happily as he leaves for the day. He still had to cross the shop floor, and being off the clock doesn't make you invincible. [29:10] Fire Door Dramas: Steve recalls a time during an ISO 9001 audit where he spotted a fire door had been blocked by pallets in a warehouse. Another time he saw a fire door that was actually chained and padlocked! On another occasion, a local council had put their rubbish bins outside the fire door for the building, and during a fire drill, they couldn't get out.   Ian states how many times he's seen signs ignored by drivers who park in front of fire exits. All this to say that a little awareness goes a long way. [31:10] Emergency Plans for the avid reader: During an incident at an NHS hospital where they'd suffered a long term major power outage, Ian and the staff had found that the emergency plans were 144 pages long! With Senior responsibilities hidden away in an Appendix on the last few pages. Well thought out plans are necessary, but the actual procedure needs to be something that can be followed in the event of an emergency. A little common sense should be applied when deciding what needs to be communicated. [34:00] Risk Assessment disaster: While working with a team in a manufacturing plant, Ian helped them to streamline their risk assessment process as their previous one needed too many signatures to actually go anywhere. This bottleneck was resolved with months of hard work, or so they thought… When it came to being audited, the auditor asked the team manager what happened to all of the risk assessments, he'd then pointed towards the Health & Safety Management and claimed they had them all, who had to admit that he didn't. Later that evening a director called the administration and asked to hide all of the documentation, to which she rightly refused to do. This also linked back to when the auditor had asked about how the apprentices were trained, and it happened that the apprentice supervisor was on holiday and so they were just let onto the shop floor. Suffice to say, this didn't reflect well on the resulting audit results. [36:30] Against the wire: Ian states that manufacturing companies are not famous for admin. He had one experience while trying to get a recertification booked in, which went up against the wire for their current certification running out. The CB obliged and sent a very qualified Health & Safety assessor there, who took them to pieces. It didn't take long for him to point out that they had a really nice management system with no commitment from managers to use it. A word to the wise – don't leave your recertification up until the last minute! If a CB tried to move your recertification past that expiry date, you can and should push back.   [39:00] Password palavers: Steve shares an experience when he interviewed a very organised PA who managed 7 Directors. At the end of the audit he pointed out a folder on her computer called ‘passwords', to which she obliged to show him the contents. Predictably it contained all the usernames and passwords for various accounts the Directors owned. She knew about the secure passwords policy, but no one could realistically remember that many! When Steve questioned the technical team, they states only selected people needed one, and she wasn't one of them. Steve pointed out that she did, and had done the best she could with the tools available, and gifted them a non-conformity as a result as they hadn't done a good job of ascertaining who should get additional security tools. By the end of that day, the PA had their own password vault. [41:30] A fire extinguisher as useless as a chocolate teapot: In another company Steve had noted that they still had a black fire extinguisher. When asked, the staff replied that they were all up-to-date as of 2007. On checking, it was revealed that it had last been serviced in August 1997 – so no, it was not in fact ‘up-to-date'. It may be innocuous to some, but when it comes to safety equipment, that could be the difference between life and death in an emergency. [42:40] Technophobes in a modern age: Ian recounts a past quality audit he did for an engineering company. They require a lot of specific ISO Standards for that industry, and so the company paid a subscription service to ensure they had digital copies of all these Standards to refer back to. One such standard was on verification, and on asking a particular quality engineer about how he verifies a specific product, he pulls out a printed hard copy of a standard from 1993. Ian was interviewing him in 2017, there had been at least 2 updated versions of the Standard out by that point. When probed about why he wasn't using the online standards library paid for by the company, he simply stated ‘I don't like computers'. [45:00] The case of the mysterious ghost file: Steve once had an audit with a relatively nervous member of staff, after explaining that all he has to do is explin how he works, the interview went rather smoothly. At one point he photocopied a bit of paper, hole punched it and filed it away on a shelf in the corner. Steve initially thought ‘good admin, he's clearly following a process', so when he returned Steve asked why he filed that particular bit of information away, to which the staff member said ‘I don't know, I've just been told to do it'. Steve then questioned the Quality Manager there about that document and they replied with the same. He then questioned the warehouse personnel to get the same answer. So, you have this document being photocopied over and over, filed away each time and no one knows why! Steve politely pointed out that it might be a good idea to rethink that pointless process. [47:50] Useless numbering systems: Ian had a similar experience with a numbering system that nobody knew the origins of. The staff involved simply shrugged it off and stated it was simply just what they used. Ian decided to put something to the test, by getting rid of it. He removed an entire archive system from a company's network folder, as back then file space was a big cost and concern. He kept the files and waited to see if anyone actually needed them. After months, he only had 2 requests for documents. It's important to ask both what is and isn't working well. Getting input from all levels of staff can be eye opening, and empower those employees who can help shape up company processes to work more efficiently. [49:50] Allergic to Audits: Ian shares a secondhand story where a trainer for the HSE was conducting a site visit, where he needed to question the shop supervisor on a few things. He asked him for something he couldn't see, and the guy agreed to go get it, and just never came back. Apparently he was so scared of the auditing process that he just went home!   [54:00] Shady police and stolen cars: One of Steve's previous clients had an experience where what they thought was a policeman asked about a hire car the company owned, stating it had been involved in a crime. They didn't think much of letting him take it for his ‘investigation'. Later when the hire company asked about getting their car back, the staff let them know what happened, rightly confused this led to a lot of discussion. As you can probably tell, the man was not a policeman and had made off with a nice shiny BMW simply by asking for it. If something like this happens to you, always ask for documentation from the police. [55:00] The Great Computer Caper: Ian recalls a training centre incident where a lot of computer equipment is stored in one suite. One day a few  guys came in and started lifting stuff out, people were holding doors open for them, not at all thinking them to be thieves. Low and behold, they were and took everything. Steve recounts a very similar experience where the thieves posed as a computer service company, stripping the entire office on a Friday afternoon. It wasn't until Monday when everything was still gone that people thought to question who those people really were. Thank you all for a great 2024, we look forward to bringing you more ISO tips and success stories in 2025. We'd love to hear your views and comments about the ISO Show, here's how: ●     Share the ISO Show on Twitter or Linkedin ●     Leave an honest review on iTunes or Soundcloud. Your ratings and reviews really help and we read each one. Subscribe to keep up-to-date with our latest episodes: Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube |iTunes | Soundcloud | Mailing List

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro kicks off The World of CFOs in Private Equity series by exploring the fascinating world of PE  with Richard Sanders, Founder and Managing Partner of Sullivan Street Partners.Dive into the dynamics of private equity and learn what it takes to succeed as a CFO in this unique investment environment.Key discussion points include:An overview of private equityThe internal structures of private equity firmsHow CFOs can understand the type of private equity backing their organisationThe concept of leveraged buyouts, including how debt is used to maximise returnsThe varying levels of private equity involvement in businessesKey strategies for value creation.Essential skills and expectations for private equity CFOs Links mentioned:Richard's LinkedinLearn more about Sullivan Street Partners Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

On the latest episode of Conversations with Ku, hear from Financial Services Director Buffy Alexzulian to learn about all things budget!Learn more about the Gwinnett County's budget and give your input at GwinnettCounty.com/BudgetCommissioner Ku would love to hear from you or answer questions about District 2. Feel free to email him at Ben.Ku@GwinnettCounty.com and your question may be read on air.

Send us your thoughtsJoin Hannah Munro in this thought-provoking episode of CFO 4.0 as she sits down with Clive Webb, Head of Business Management at ACCA, to explore the latest insights from ACCA's ground breaking research, Finance Evolution. Together, they discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the finance function of tomorrow. Key discussion points include:How finance teams can position themselves as custodians of reliable data.Emerging roles like Sustainability Controllers and Data Governance LeadsThe rise of AI, machine learning, and e-invoicing, and their impact on forecasting and compliance.The role of finance in bridging the gap with accurate and integrated data.The skills needed to build predictive models and adapt to rapid changes in the business landscape.Bridging the gap between traditional roles and the demands of the future.Links mentioned:Clive's LinkedinLearn more about the ACCAFinance evolution report: Thriving in the next decade Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Get your free LMNT sample with any order: DrinkLMNT.com/fitcare Tom has worked in the world of finance for over 27 years. He has served as Finance Director at Maine School Administrative District 51, and is the Treasurer of Sea Change Yoga – a Trauma Sensitive offering to underserved populations. Tom was both a student and a teacher as a member of the Omicron Class at the Institute for Civic Leadership producing Writings on the Seven Levels of Sustainable Non-Profits, and taught personal finance and mathematics at Gould Academy in the mid-1990's. Tom gives workshops using the principles which guide his business to different audiences principally through Currency Camp LLC, has been an interesting guest on various radio shows and podcasts and recently published the book, Money Isn't Everything, Everything is Money: A personalized approach to valuing Time, Energy, Relationships and Money. Tom is an avid lacrosse player and lives with his family in Cumberland, Maine. https://www.shepard-financial.com/who-we-are Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/5353468462366720

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of Financial Transformation Live, Hannah Munro explores how to assess and optimise your current financial systems to support your organisation's goals. As the final live session of the year, this episode is packed with actionable advice and frameworks to help finance leaders plan their next steps for system improvements.Tune in to learn:The four key components of a financial technology stack: controls, compliance, reporting, and process efficiency.A comprehensive framework for assessing your financial systems, including:Understanding strategic direction and goals.Gathering feedback and insights from stakeholders.Performing process documentation and Excel audits.Running reporting assessments and SWOT analyses.Practical tips to improve month-end efficiency and reduce close times.10 quick wins to optimise your financial systems, from automating bank feeds to improving credit control.How to decide whether to enhance your current system or invest in a new platform using a traffic light evaluation method.Insights into leveraging your team's expertise and industry benchmarks for continuous improvement.Links mentioned:Building a Future-Proofed Reporting ArchitecturePlease reach out to Hannah via LinkedIn if you'd like to be notified once our Sage Systems Feedback document is live!Getting Started with Mapping Out Your Finance ProcessesBreaking the Excel Addiction - Are you Over-Reliant on Spreadsheets?Reduce Your Month-End Close TimeHelpful Guides for Sage 50, Sage 200, and Sage IntacctSage Intacct On-Demand DemoSage 200 Standard Coffee Break DemoSage 200 Interactive Demo  Sage 50 Coffee Break DemoDownload your System Audit TemplateNov: Financial Transformation Live | Assessing Your Current Financial Systems Revisit previous Financial Transformation Live  sessions CFO 4.0 Monthly BriefingFinancial Transformation Live Feedback survey Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro is joined by Jeremy Earnshaw, Founding Director of Clarendon in the first instalment of a series of discussions on the complexities and challenges of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Jeremy draws on his wealth of experience in executing over 25 transactions to offer practical advice for CFOs embarking on their M&A journey. Key topics covered include:The importance of aligning M&A activity with organisational strategyUnderstanding the critical role of the C-suite in the M&A processHow to assess whether your organisation is ready for an acquisitionCultural integration and its impact on post-acquisition successThe role of due diligence and disclosures in mitigating potential issuesHow to balance day-to-day responsibilities with the demands of M&A Links mentioned:Jeremy's LinkedinLearn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this week's episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro sits down with Tom Miller, Finance Director at Illuma Technology, to discuss the critical role of finance leaders in both crisis management and everyday operations. From navigating the challenges of COVID-19 to mastering cash flow and cost control, Tom shares invaluable lessons that every finance professional can apply. Key topics include:Discover how Tom's journey from big four training to startups shaped his approach to the CFO role.Insights on building resilience and demonstrating leadership during the volatile COVID-19 period.Learn Tom's strategies for ensuring cash flow stabilityPractical advice on negotiation with suppliers, landlords, and even tax authorities to maintain financial health.Explore Tom's methods for enforcing cost discipline and incentivising budget adherence within the organisation.How finance can be more approachable, service-oriented, and add strategic value across the organisation.Links mentioned: Tom's LinkedinLearn more about Illuma TechnologyTom's Book Recommendation: Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It By Chris Voss Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro is joined by Phil Richards, CFO of GiG, to delve into his journey to CFO and the complex path of taking a company public. Phil shares his experiences and insights from leading GiG's IPO on the Swedish First North, discussing the planning, challenges, and strategic choices involved. Here's what you can expect:Phil discusses what makes the gaming industry unique and why it continues to be an exciting and evolving space.Insights into the decisions and steps that took GiG public, including splitting from a parent company and selecting the Swedish First North market.How GiG navigated complex regulatory, tax, and investor expectations.The role of a CFO in maintaining investor interest post-IPO, balancing growth targets, and keeping the company's story fresh.Phil shares practical advice on choosing the right stock exchange, managing advisors, and aligning teams for IPO success.Links mentioned:Phil's Linkedin Learn more about GiG Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of Financial Transformation Live, hosted by Hannah Munro, we dive into the essential strategies for building a sustainable and future-proof financial reporting architecture. Whether you're navigating reporting for the first time or refining an existing structure, this session covers critical insights and best practices to ensure longevity, flexibility, and clarity in your financial data systems. Topics include:Understanding and Gathering Reporting RequirementsDesigning with Your Business Model in MindAssessing and Aligning Data Structures with System CapabilitiesValidating Input Processes and PermissionsIntegrating with Existing Systems and Future-Proofing StructuresKey Dos and Don'ts for Reporting ArchitectureLinks mentioned:October FTL: Financial Transformation Live: Building a Future Proofed Reporting ArchitectureRevisit previous Financial Transformation Live  sessions CFO 4.0 Monthly BriefingFinancial Transformation Live Feedback survey Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro sits down with Tatiana Okhotina, CFO of Token, to explore her journey in FinTech and discuss key challenges in scaling global finance teams in a rapidly evolving industry. Tatiana shares valuable insights into building diverse, high-performing teams and balancing the unique demands of a growing FinTech company. Tune in to hear about:Key considerations when scaling finance teams globally, especially in regulated industries.How FinTech companies differ from traditional tech businesses in terms of complexity, risk, and compliance.The role of communication and cultural understanding in managing remote, global teams.Tatiana's approach to building relationships within her team and with the board.How sustainability and ESG initiatives play a vital role in FinTech and her passion for building sustainable businesses.Links mentioned:Tatiana's LinkedinLearn more about Token Tatiana's Book Recommendation: The Venture Mindset: How to Make Smarter Bets and Achieve Extraordinary Growth Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro sits down with Byron Cowie, Director of Finance at Elliptic and former Head of Reporting and Control at Luno, to discuss his incredible journey across two innovative fintech companies. Tune in as Byron shares his experiences in scaling teams, managing volatility, and navigating the world of crypto exchanges.Key topics covered in this episode:Byron's transition from traditional finance roles to scaling Luno, a global crypto exchangeThe importance of the right hires, scalable finance systems, and the challenge of maintaining financial controlHow Byron and the Luno team navigated the volatile nature of the crypto marketBuilding effective controls, team onboarding, and communication strategies Byron's move to blockchain analytics, focusing on how his experiences at Luno have shaped his approach in his new role.Links mentioned: Byron's Linkedin Learn more about EllipticByron's Book Recommendation: In Math We Trust By Simon Dingle Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us a textFinance Director Bryan Archer joins us to talk about the City budget, taxes, bond projects and more. Bryan has been with the City of Arvada since 1996, serving several roles, including budget analyst, accounting manager and controller. In his role as Finance Director, Bryan oversees all areas of finance, including treasury, budget, cash, investments, accounting and purchasing.Topics covered in this episode include: Understanding the City budget, includes info about: 10-year financial plan Funding sources General fund vs. enterprise funds Operating budget and capital improvement fundBond fundingBiennial operating and capital budget:2023-2024 Revised Budget (PDF)2025-2026 Proposed Budget (PDF)2025-2026 proposed budget presentation to City Council from Sept. 23, 2024TABOR Financial transparency Property taxes and the Jefferson County Property Records Application Other news and events: Arvada's GIS mapsArvada Community Survey (arvadasurvey.com) 2024 Leaf Recycling Drop-off EventsClimate Action and Sustainability Plan Open House on Nov. 14Visit us at ArvadaCO.gov/Podcast or email us at podcast@arvada.org.

In this episode of Where Public Finance Works, we meet Kevin Bueso, Chief Financial Officer at the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) of Northeastern Illinois. Kevin shares his inspiring journey from Honduras to leading finance operations at one of the country's largest transit oversight agencies. Join host Tyler Traudt as he explores Kevin's strategic initiatives to address the challenges of post-pandemic public transit, the ongoing fiscal cliff, and the role of technology in transforming operations. Kevin discusses the unique challenges the RTA faces as an oversight and funding agency for Chicago's vast transit system, and how coordination between the RTA and its sister agencies—CTA, Metra, and Pace—is essential for managing public transit services across the metropolitan area. Kevin also shares his approach to future-proofing his team, encouraging staff to continuously question their methods and think strategically about their roles. His leadership balances innovation with operational efficiency, offering valuable lessons for anyone in public finance, transportation, or leadership. Featured Guest  Kevin Bueso is the Chief Financial Officer and Senior Deputy Executive Director of Finance, Innovation, and Technology at the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) of Northeastern Illinois. Kevin is responsible for overseeing the financial strategies and operations of the RTA, providing crucial leadership at a pivotal moment for the region's transit system. His areas of focus include financial planning, budgeting, treasury operations, IT strategy, and capital project management.  Before joining the RTA in 2023, Kevin served as Chief Financial Officer for McHenry County, where he contributed his expertise in strategic financial management, change management, and succession planning. His extensive background in local government finance spans roles such as Finance Director for the Village of Round Lake Beach and Assistant Director of Finance for the City of Waukegan, where he gained deep experience in fiscal oversight, budget development, and internal controls. Kevin holds both a Bachelor's and an MBA in Accounting & Finance from Roosevelt University. He is actively engaged with professional associations and was instrumental in establishing the Illinois Chapter of the Local Government Hispanic Network (LGHN). Fluent in Spanish and originally from Honduras, Kevin brings a unique and global perspective to his work in public finance. Episode Resources Earnings Credit Calculator for Treasury & Finance Teams Breaking Down the Math Behind Municipal Bonds A Treasurer's Guide to Understanding the Account Analysis Statement

"I love to make money, of course, but if it doesn't feed my spirit, it doesn't make sense." -Nizhoni Smocks Welcome back to the Turmeric & Tequila Podcast! I'm your host, Kristen Olson, and today we continue our discussion with Nizhoni Smocks, Finance Director of Youth Seen. We'll explore the incredible work being done to support the social and emotional well-being of LGBTQIA youth, including programs like Camp Seen and Black Pride Colorado. Nizhoni shares the challenges they face, from funding struggles to legislative barriers, and highlights upcoming events like the Youth Queer Homecoming and the Black Fantasy Ball. We'll also discuss how you can get involved, whether through volunteering or attending events. A special thanks to our sponsor Lux Neuro for their support in neurofeedback and counseling. Stay tuned for an inspiring episode filled with heartfelt insights and actionable ways to make a difference in the community. Nizhoni Smocks: Nizhoni Smocks (she/her), an Afro-Indigenous woman, is a fierce advocate, facilitator and operations innovator. She left corporate America to pour back into the underserved and overlooked communities that she most connected with. She believes that you must go beyond being an ally to accomplice even though you're not a true stakeholder; their challenges are your challenges. She understands the incredible impact that organizations have on real people's lives. Nizhoni is constantly seeking and learning the skills that help organizations work smarter not harder. She deeply believes that organizational efficiency influences everything. As featured on Colorado Voices, she shared experiences of growing up as an outsider on the Navajo Reservation and her journey of self-discovery while never fitting in. Nizhoni is a founding member of Black PRIDE Colorado and is the current Finance Director of YouthSeen. @nizhoni_e About Youth Seen Coming Events: Michael Roberson In Conversation with Twiggy Pucci Garcon Film Screening: The Ball The 4th Annual Black Fantasy Ball: Mile High Stampede . . . Connect with T&T:  IG: @TurmericTequila  Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila  Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson  IG: @Madonnashero  Tik Tok: @Madonnashero  Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

Welcome to the Car Dealership Guy Podcast. In this episode, I'm speaking with Dennis Gingrich, Sales/Finance Director at The Niello Company where we discuss: How he's selling $725M a year in luxury vehicles, the top backend products and highest margin brands, and much more. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by: CDK Global - CDK will once again be streaming its annual industry conference CDK Connect 2024 on October 22. This year's virtual CONNECT conference will feature CDK's latest product innovations, a keynote from CEO Brian MacDonald, and live breakout sessions focused across all operations of the dealership.  You can register for CDK CONNECT at the link in our notes below or by visiting http://CDK.com/Connect Cars Commerce - The platform to simplify everything about buying and selling cars. Learn more at https://www.carscommerce.inc/ Dealer Image Pro - The in-house photo, video and 360° solution for auto dealers. Learn more at https://www.dealerimagepro.com/ Interested in advertising with Car Dealership Guy? Drop us a line here Interested in being considered as a guest on the podcast? Add your name here Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro (00:00:53) - The Zurich Mafia (00:01:50) - Moving from the vendor side to the dealer side (00:05:39) - What are the best-performing dealerships doing from an F&I standpoint? (00:07:32) - What is the size and scale of your organization?  (00:10:56) - What brands offer the best and worst F&I profits? (00:13:40) - How have you improved margins at this dealership? (00:19:08) - The 7-day return policy (00:20:32) - Merchandising & CGI (00:27:30) - The in-store sales process and F&I (00:29:48)- Vehicle trends (00:32:12) - What's your outlook on the industry? (00:33:31) - What concerns you? (00:35:11) - The CARS rule (00:37:53) - What's exciting to you these days? Check out The Niello Company here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a basis for investment decisions.

Join us for an insightful episode of Where Public Finance Works, featuring Melissa Moore, the Finance Director for Buncombe County, North Carolina. Host Tyler Traudt explores Melissa's unique transition from the private sector to public finance, sharing how her analytical background and experience in financial planning have driven meaningful change in local government. Melissa discusses her journey from Texas to North Carolina, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her strategic approach to financial planning and cash flow management. She explains how Buncombe County is handling growth and public trust challenges, and how her team focuses on maximizing taxpayer dollars through smart cash investments and long-term financial forecasting. This episode sheds light on the critical role of finance in local government, from managing bond proceeds to planning for future capital projects.    Featured Guest Melissa Moore is the Finance Director for Buncombe County Government, a role she has held since September 2023. With over 15 years of experience in public finance and local government, Melissa has developed expertise in managing government bonds, overseeing budgetary processes, and fostering financial strategies for municipalities. Before joining Buncombe County, Melissa served as the Director of Finance for the City of Pflugerville, Texas, where she led financial operations for over two years. Her career also includes positions such as Assistant Director of Finance for the City of San Marcos, Texas, and Finance Program Manager at CPS Energy, one of the largest municipally-owned utilities in the U.S. Melissa's well-rounded experience in financial planning, debt management, and government budgeting positions her as a leading voice in public finance, ensuring that government resources are allocated effectively to benefit the community.   Episode Resources Guide to Liquidity Management Strategies for Treasurers From Bond Proceeds to Rebates: The Lifecycle of a Construction Account Debt Service Calculator for Tax-Exempt Bonds

“You must go beyond being an ally- to accomplice, even though you're not a true stakeholder. Their challenges are your challenges."  - Nizhoni Smocks Welcome back to the Turmeric & Tequila Podcast! In today's enlightening episode, your host Kristen Olson sits down with the inspiring Nizhoni Smocks to explore the journey from perfectionism to embracing excellence, the power of genuine leadership, and the quest for personal growth and peace. Nizhoni shares her compelling story of overcoming challenges, from navigating a difficult childhood and negative influences to finding solace in education, spirituality, and self-discovery. Listen in as Nizhoni opens up about her career shifts, her transformative experiences during the pandemic, and her commitment to intentional self-care and setting digital boundaries. Kristen and Nizhoni also delve into the significance of authenticity in leadership and finding joy in the simple things, emphasizing the importance of giving oneself grace. Whether you're seeking inspiration for personal growth or insights on maintaining mental wellness, this episode promises to offer valuable takeaways. Plus, we're giving a special shout out to our sponsors Lux Neuro and Declan James Watches for their support. Don't miss this deep and engaging conversation that's split into two parts for your listening convenience - it's packed with first-hand experiences and wisdom you won't want to miss. Stay tuned!   Time Stamps: 00:00 Podcast split into two parts for digestibility. 05:08 Transition from isolated indigenous life to education. 08:25 Developed career, personal growth, relationships, and accomplishments. 12:11 Advocate for diversity and disrupting generational narrative. 12:52 Seeking change and self-discovery in new city. 16:36 Fascinated by navigating family and personal growth. 20:30 Creating personal spirituality through diverse rituals and beliefs. 22:40 Young person discusses spirituality and energy belief. 26:58 Regret over time spent, transformative realization, pandemic impact. 30:38 Seeking a fulfilling life of travel and altruism. 32:05 Youth face pressure, need to slow down. 38:09 Mentorship, therapy, work ethic, sorority, leadership. 40:48 Understanding and accepting human idiosyncrasies, grace. 42:38 Leading by example through intentional, authentic experience.   Nizhoni Smocks: Nizhoni Smocks (she/her), an Afro-Indigenous woman, is a fierce advocate, facilitator and operations innovator. She left corporate America to pour back into the underserved and overlooked communities that she most connected with. She believes that you must go beyond being an ally to accomplice even though you're not a true stakeholder; their challenges are your challenges. She understands the incredible impact that organizations have on real people's lives. Nizhoni is constantly seeking and learning the skills that help organizations work smarter not harder. She deeply believes that organizational efficiency influences everything. As featured on Colorado Voices, she shared experiences of growing up as an outsider on the Navajo Reservation and her journey of self-discovery while never fitting in. Nizhoni is a founding member of Black PRIDE Colorado and is the current Finance Director of YouthSeen. Specialties: corporate training, organizational operations, project management, process management, academic transfer/articulation, communications, policy management, event planning, contract negotiation, database management, technical writing, asset management and higher education. @nizhoni_e About Youth Seen   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

Halee Ratcliff, Finance Director for the Town of Wilkesboro, North Carolina joined the to podcast to discuss community investments. She shared how the town used American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to invest in a community park and support economic development. She talked about how the Town's outdoor action plan informed the investments and shared the exceptional healthcare benefits the Town provides. Host: Ben Kittelson