In this episode of FinFactor, host Blaine Bertsch sits down with finance leader Ken Lacroix to explore why the 13-week cashflow forecast is one of the most powerful yet overlooked tools in business finance. They discuss the challenges companies face when setting up accurate forecasts, the shift in mindset required to move from profit and loss to true cash management, and the importance of focusing on major inflows and outflows to gain clarity. The conversation also covers how customer b...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Matt Middendorp to break down the world of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). They explore how ESOPs impact company valuation, employee engagement, and long-term business legacy, while highlighting both the benefits and challenges of implementation. From feasibility studies and valuation modeling to avoiding common pitfalls, this conversation uncovers the key factors that make ESOPs successful. Real-life success stories il...

In this episode of FinFactor, host Blaine Bertsch sits down with Paul Barnhurst to dive into the rapidly expanding role of the CFO. Once defined by financial analysis, cash flow management, and forecasting, today’s CFO is now a strategic operator, taking on responsibilities that stretch far beyond traditional finance. From overseeing operations and liquidity planning to managing risk, asset allocation, and corporate strategy, the CFO is increasingly stepping into what was once the COO’s terri...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Bob Light to uncover the biggest mistakes companies make when selecting and implementing an ERP system. ERP software decisions can make or break a business—yet too often, leaders rush into adoption without fully understanding their internal processes, pain points, and long-term needs. Bob explains why mapping workflows and involving stakeholders early is critical to ensure smoother adoption and stronger ROI. The conversation explores...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Ben Taylor, CEO of SoftLedger, to explore one of the biggest challenges facing finance leaders today—multi-entity accounting. As businesses scale and expand across multiple subsidiaries, divisions, or global operations, outdated accounting systems and manual spreadsheets can’t keep up. The result? Errors in consolidated reporting, inefficiencies in intercompany transactions, and missed opportunities in financial planning and cash flo...

Navigating Data Challenges in Finance with Scott Hollrah | ERP Integration, Automation & Data Governance In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Scott Hollrah, CEO of Venn Technology, to tackle one of the toughest issues facing finance leaders today: fragmented financial data. As organizations juggle multiple systems—ERP software, CRMs, data warehouses, and cloud accounting platforms—manual processes and disconnected tools create inefficiencies, errors, and major roadb...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch welcomes Greg McDonough, Managing Partner at Blackburn Capital and seasoned financial coach, to discuss why clean, consistent financial data is the cornerstone of smarter business decisions and long-term resilience. Greg highlights how too many entrepreneurs still lean on gut instinct instead of reliable insights, creating weak cash flow management, missed opportunities, and persistent challenges in business finance. The conversation explores how a...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Greg Kautz, a recognized expert in lease accounting, to break down the complexities of modern lease management and evolving regulatory compliance. With accounting standards like ASC 842 and IFRS 16 reshaping how organizations manage leases, CFOs and finance leaders face new challenges when relying on spreadsheets or outdated accounting systems. Greg explains why accurate lease reporting and efficient property accounting are critical ...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch welcomes Adam Katz for an in-depth conversation about the rapidly changing world of foreign exchange (FX), B2B payments, and the fintech revolution. CFOs today face mounting challenges in payment processing, including hidden FX fees, transaction inefficiencies, complex compliance demands, and the pressure to adopt modern financial technology that keeps pace with global business needs. Adam explains how artificial intelligence in finance, automation...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch and Mike Shum dive into the evolving world of private credit and debt financing, shedding light on the challenges businesses face in securing debt and managing financial data. They explore the critical role of transparency, the increasing complexity of debt structures, and how technology—specifically Cascade—enhances data accuracy and reporting. The discussion highlights asset-based lending as a strategic tool for businesses and how investors...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine sits down with Morgan Hines to explore the significant impact of travel expenses on small and medium-sized businesses. They dive into the hidden costs of corporate travel management, from human error in booking to missed savings due to lack of access to corporate travel tools. Morgan highlights how Navan is leveling the playing field for small businesses by offering streamlined travel management, corporate rates, and robust security features. The con...

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

Join Blaine Bertsch and Usman Mahmood as they dive into the essential groundwork for harnessing AI in business. This episode of FinFactor uncovers why a solid data structure and organizational data maturity are critical before adopting AI technologies. Usman and Blaine break down data maturity stages, highlight AI's transformative role in enhancing efficiency, and outline actionable steps for organizations to embark on their AI journey. From addressing the single source of truth...

In this engaging episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch sits down with Jonathon Angell to unpack the world of innovative strategies for fundraising and financing in business. They explore diverse financing options, the impact of partnerships, and the importance of networking and relationships in securing funding. They dive into the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions, the power of storytelling in business, and the nuanced expectations of different investor types. Jonathan highlights t...

In this conversation, Blaine Bertsch and Keith Daser discuss the complexities and challenges that mid-market businesses face when integrating technology solutions. They explore the importance of engaging IT consulting professionals at the right time, the significance of communication during technology purchases, and the lessons learned from past mistakes. The discussion also highlights the evolving role of specialists and generalists in IT, the critical nature of security in today's lan...

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

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

Wesley Hartman, founder of Automata Practice Development, discusses the implementation of automation in CPA firms. He explains that his company builds custom automation specific to accounting firms, focusing on areas such as client onboarding, tax return processes, and document management. Wesley emphasizes that automation can help increase capacity and reallocate time to more value-driven tasks. He suggests that firms of all sizes can benefit from automation, with larger firms being ab...

In this episode of FinFactor, Blaine Bertsch interviews Michael Haynes, a business growth expert, about helping CPA firms grow. They discuss the importance of understanding how clients buy accounting services and the need for a go-to-market strategy that aligns with clients' needs. Michael emphasizes the value of delivering advice, insights, and recommendations to clients through content creation and strategic collaborations. He also highlights the significance of networking and buildin...

Ed Patton from PattonTrendr discusses the five elements of financial fundamentals that businesses need to understand: cash flow, operating earnings, financial strength, value, and borrowing capacity. He emphasizes the importance of having visibility into these elements to get a holistic view of the business's financial situation. Catch every episode of FinFactor, where we interview CFOs and finance professionals to uncover the best financial management strategies for overcoming complex busine...