In the latest episode of FP&A Done Right – The Podcast, hosts Olivia and Ryan explore how finance leaders can transform FP&A from a back-office reporting function into a strategic powerhouse. Season 2 kicks off with a deep dive into what modern finance teams need to thrive in an era defined by volatility, complexity, and constant change.

This episode examines the essential practices—rolling forecasts, real-time insights, transparent data collaboration—that enable finance teams to move faster, think strategically, and influence decision-making across the business.

1. The Evolution of FP&A: From Rearview Mirror to Windshield

Finance has changed. Today’s FP&A teams are no longer measured only by how well they report the past—they’re measured by how well they help shape the future.

Olivia and Ryan reflect on their early careers, when FP&A’s role centered on building reports that often became outdated the moment they were delivered. Now, executives expect FP&A to see around corners, anticipate disruptions, and guide strategic decisions.

The shift demands new skills, faster cycles, and a willingness to challenge long-standing processes.

2. Rolling Forecasts: Breaking Old Habits for Better Agility

Static annual budgets simply can’t keep up in a rapidly changing environment. The episode highlights why rolling forecasts and driver-based models are key to modern planning.

Olivia and Ryan share real-world stories—from pandemic-driven planning overhauls to resistance from teams long accustomed to spreadsheets and fixed cycles. The biggest takeaway?

Technology helps, but mindset is the true barrier.

Embracing rolling forecasts means letting go of rigid habits and becoming comfortable with uncertainty, iteration, and “trying something new” even before it feels perfect.

3. Data Transparency: Turning Insight Into Action

One of the most impactful shifts in FP&A transformation is opening up data—making it accessible, timely, and usable across the organization.

Olivia recounts how transparency at a manufacturing firm drove collaboration and sparked better decision-making. When business partners understood the numbers and challenged assumptions, conversations became more strategic.

Ryan shares a humorous story about a color-coded dashboard sparking debate in an executive meeting—but ultimately leading to deeper engagement and forward-looking discussions.

The lesson:
Transparency empowers teams, drives accountability, and generates innovation—even if it leads to a few lively debates.

4. FP&A as a Catalyst for Change

Finance transformation isn’t just about models and tools—it’s about people. Olivia and Ryan underscore the need for FP&A teams to step into more strategic roles by:

• Encouraging cross-functional collaboration
• Sharing real-time data, not static reports
• Championing agility through rolling forecasts
• Challenging “the way we’ve always done it”
• Creating space for healthy debate and innovation

This episode highlights how modern finance teams can become trusted advisors who influence decisions rather than simply report on them.

Transform Your FP&A Function

For FP&A leaders, analysts, and finance innovators, this episode offers practical insights into how to modernize planning, strengthen partnerships, and adopt a forward-thinking mindset.

Tune in to Season 2, Episode 1 of FP&A Done Right – The Podcast to learn how rolling forecasts, transparency, and a willingness to embrace change can transform your finance organization into a more strategic, future-focused function.