In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper talk with Santiago Nestares, co-founder and CEO of DualEntry, about the reinvention of ERP systems through AI-native design. After scaling a global e-commerce business to over $100 million in revenue, Santiago experienced the frustrations of legacy finance systems firsthand. That pain sparked the vision for DualEntry: an ERP platform built from the ground up for the AI era.

Santiago Nestares is the CEO and co-founder of DualEntry, an AI-native ERP platform. Before DualEntry, he co-founded Benitago, a leading Amazon brand aggregator. His experience running a multi-entity, high-growth business exposed the inefficiencies in traditional finance systems, inspiring him to build a next-gen ERP solution from scratch.

In this episode, you will discover:

• Why legacy ERP systems are fundamentally broken, and how AI changes the game
• How DualEntry enables 24-hour ERP data migration
• The role of AI in journal entries, reporting, and reconciliation
• How auditors are embracing automation and AI for compliance and accuracy
• Why ERP systems must evolve beyond just being "AI-enabled" to truly AI-native

Santiago Nestares joins Paul and Glenn to reveal how DualEntry is transforming ERP for the AI era. From eliminating painful migrations to building systems finance teams actually enjoy using, Santiago makes it clear: the future of ERP is AI-native, fast, and built with users in mind. ERP doesn’t have to be a burden. With the right tools, it can become a strategic advantage.

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Santiago:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/santiago-nestares/

Website: https://www.dualentry.com/

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[01:36] - Lessons from Scaling to $100M & ERP Frustrations

[03:37] - Why ERP Migrations Are So Broken

[07:47] - How DualEntry Raised a $90M Series A

[10:51] - AI-Native vs. AI-Enabled ERP Systems

[18:23] - Challenges and Realities of 24-Hour ERP Migration

[23:26] - Why Building a Mid-Market ERP Is a Bold Move

[28:18] - Using AI in Audits & Real-Time Reporting

[31:45] - Rapid-Fire AI Questions

[35:52] - Final Reflections & Wrap-Up

In this episode of Future Finance, Glenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst sit down with Joe Friedman and Ranga Bodla from Oracle NetSuite to explore how AI is transforming enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. Amidst rising competition and a rapidly changing tech landscape, NetSuite is doubling down on intelligent automation, open platforms, and embedded AI to redefine how finance teams operate.

Joe Friedman is the Senior Director of AI Innovation at Oracle NetSuite, driving efforts to integrate practical AI across finance and operations. With over 15 years at NetSuite, Joe focuses on converting AI into measurable productivity gains. Ranga Bodla is the Vice President of Field Engagement and Marketing at Oracle NetSuite, with more than 20 years in enterprise software. He leads industry strategy across verticals, helping businesses convert innovation into performance

Expect to Learn:

• Why AI is reinvigorating interest in ERP platforms like NetSuite.
• How NetSuite’s AI strategy balances “AI every day” and “AI your way.”
• What the MCP connector does and why it’s a game-changer for data analysis.
• How NetSuite’s clean data models fuel better AI outcomes and user productivity.
• 
  

Joe Friedman and Ranga Bodla offer a compelling look at how NetSuite is embedding AI into the core of ERP to drive smarter, faster decision-making. Their insights show that clean data, open platforms, and practical AI tools are key to transforming finance operations today.

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Joe:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/friedman-ns/

Follow Ranga:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ranga-bodla-bb45b/

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[02:00] – Where NetSuite Stands in Today’s ERP Landscape

[05:17] – Why ERP and AI Go Hand-in-Hand

[07:29] – AI Every Day, AI Your Way: What NetSuite’s MCP Connector Unlocks

[10:29] – Practical AI Integration Inside NetSuite

[13:30] – Real-World Use Cases for AI in Finance

[16:22] – AI Agents, Automation, and What’s Coming Next

[18:05] – SaaS as the Real Driver of AI Adoption

[19:48] – Why Clean Data Fuels Better AI Outcomes

[21:12] – Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper sit down with NetSuite’s Joe Friedman and Ranga Bodla to explore how AI is transforming enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. With decades of combined experience in enterprise software, Joe and Ranga discuss how NetSuite is innovating ERP through AI-native capabilities, open platforms, and real-time automation. The conversation spans AI agent adoption, data clarity, and how finance teams can start harnessing AI today without major overhauls.

Joe Friedman is the Senior Director of AI Innovation at Oracle NetSuite, driving efforts to integrate practical AI across finance and operations. With over 15 years at NetSuite, Joe focuses on converting AI into measurable productivity gains. Ranga Bodla is the Vice President of Field Engagement and Marketing at Oracle NetSuite, with more than 20 years in enterprise software. He leads industry strategy across verticals, helping businesses convert innovation into performance.

In this episode, you will discover:

• Why NetSuite believes ERP is the core of AI transformation in finance
• How the new MCP connector integrates AI agents like Claude and ChatGPT
• Practical AI use cases: from variance analysis to journal entry creation
• Why clean ERP data is essential for effective AI outcomes
• How companies can start AI initiatives without high risk or cost

Joe Friedman and Ranga Bodla offer a compelling look at how NetSuite is leading the charge in making AI practical and accessible within ERP systems. Their insights show that businesses don’t need massive overhauls to start seeing value from AI, just clean data and the right tools. As ERP evolves, NetSuite’s hybrid approach positions it to stay ahead. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the intersection of finance, tech, and AI.

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Joe:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/friedman-ns/

Follow Ranga:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ranga-bodla-bb45b/

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[04:15] - Competing with New ERP Platforms

[09:42] - What is MCP & AI Everyday?

[13:47] - AI Use in...

In this episode, Paul sits down with renowned data strategist Khaled Chowdhury to unpack what it means to bring clarity to data in the age of AI. With a background in FP&A and a track record as an early Power BI adopter, Khaled brings a rare blend of financial and technical expertise. The conversation explores the concept of "data clarity," the challenges behind AI adoption in business, and why clean data models matter more than ever.

Khaled Chowdhury is a globally recognized expert in data strategy and the founder of Data Crafters. With roots in FP&A, Khaled was among the first to integrate Power BI into planning workflows. Today, he helps executives and teams transition from data chaos to clarity, particularly as AI transforms the business landscape.

Expect to Learn:

• What “data clarity” really means and why it matters for business decisions.
• The two big barriers preventing organizations from becoming data-driven.
• What the “AI paradox” is and why 95% of enterprise AI projects fail.
• Why your data model is the hidden make-or-break factor in using AI tools.
• How to think about probabilistic vs. deterministic results in AI systems.

Khaled Chowdhury and Paul Barnhurst offer a thought-provoking exploration of how data and AI are reshaping decision-making in the modern enterprise. From breaking down the myths of being data-driven to unpacking the AI paradox, their conversation highlights the growing need for clean data, smart models, and strategic thinking.

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Khaled Chowdhury:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khaledchowdhury/

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[01:44] - Defining Data Clarity and the Cost of Chaos

[04:05] - Data-Informed Gut vs. Data-Driven Myths

[06:54] - The AI Paradox Explained

[09:18] - Why AI Projects Fail in the Enterprise

[13:33] - Clean Data Models: No Hiding Behind Lipstick

[14:26] - Closing Thoughts & What’s Next

In this episode of Future Finance, host Paul Barnhurst speaks with data expert Khaled Chowdhury, a renowned leader in the data and AI space. Khaled shares his journey from finance to data analytics, offering insights into the evolving role of AI in business decisions, the importance of data clarity, and how tools like Power BI and Fabric are transforming the data landscape. Khaled’s approach to data clarity in the age of AI brings a fresh perspective to the conversation on how companies can leverage data to make better, faster decisions.

Khaled Chowdhury is a data expert and founder of Data Crafters, helping businesses, especially in finance, build clear data strategies in the age of AI. With a background in FP&A, Khaled’s unique journey spans from finance director to certified data professional, with expertise in tools like Power BI and Fabric. He’s been recognized globally for his contributions to the data world, empowering organizations to make data-driven decisions. Khaled’s experience bridges finance, technology, and business leadership.

In this episode, you will discover:

• Khaled’s journey from finance to data analytics and AI
• The importance of data clarity and the common mistakes companies make
• Why AI and data-driven decisions require a strong foundation
• How AI can both enhance and challenge business decision-making
• Practical advice on how companies should prioritize AI investments and data management

Khaled Chowdhury highlights the importance of building a solid data foundation before diving into AI and advanced tools like Power BI and Fabric. His journey from finance to data leadership demonstrates how clarity, smart data strategies, and a focus on outcomes can transform decision-making.

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Khaled:

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/khaledchowdhury/

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[02:12] – Khaled’s Journey: From Finance to Data

[06:10] – Defining Data Clarity

[10:15] – The AI Paradox

[14:42] – The Power of Power BI and Fabric

[18:30] – The Data Maturity Curve

[22:05] – How Companies Should Invest in AI

[25:03] – The Future of Data and AI

[29:12] – The AI Chatbot Question

[34:25] – Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts from Khaled

In this special episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper explore how AI agents and productivity tools like Excel’s newest features are transforming the finance function. They contrast grassroots, employee-led innovation with large-scale, enterprise-driven AI projects, offering practical guidance and examples from their own experiments.

Expect to Learn:

• The difference between top-down and bottom-up AI deployments in organizations
• Why “shadow AI” and “secret cyborgs” are redefining workplace productivity
• The crucial role of change management in enterprise AI adoption
• What Excel’s new AI agent can (and can’t) do for financial modeling

Glenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst deliver an insightful look into how AI is reshaping the finance profession, from enterprise-wide transformations to individual experimentation. Their discussion on agents, automation, and Excel’s evolving capabilities highlights how innovation and adaptability are redefining what it means to be a modern finance leader in a technology-driven world.

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[00:22] - Top-Down vs Bottom-Up AI Adoption & Excel Agents

[01:26] - Building a Personal AI Agent

[04:01] - Top-Down vs Bottom-Up AI Strategy Explained

[06:41] - Change Management in AI Projects

[08:42] - Bottom-Up AI: Enable Use, Ensure Safety

[11:10] - Excel’s 40th Anniversary

[17:13] - Evaluating Excel's DCF Output

[18:23] - Final Thoughts and Takeaways

In this special episode of Future Finance, your hosts, Glenn Hopper and Paul Barnhurst, explore how artificial intelligence is making waves in the finance world. They explore two distinct approaches to AI adoption: top-down initiatives, driven by company leadership, and bottom-up strategies, where employees are introducing AI tools on their own. Glenn and Paul also discuss the latest AI tools in Microsoft Excel, including AI agents, and how they’re transforming financial modeling and decision-making. Tune in for a mix of practical advice, real-world experiences, and a bit of humor along the way.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How top-down and bottom-up AI adoption strategies differ in business.
• Why employee-driven AI innovation is on the rise and how to manage it.
• The role of AI-powered tools like Excel Labs in transforming financial work.
• How AI agents can help upskill finance professionals and streamline tasks.

Glenn and Paul explore the evolving role of AI in finance, from top-down strategies to employee-driven innovation. They highlight the potential of AI tools like Excel Labs and AI agents to transform financial processes. Tune in for insights on how embracing AI can help professionals stay ahead in a rapidly changing field.

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[05:17] - Glenn’s New Book for Wiley

[08:21] - The AI Budget Mandate

[12:11] - Managing Bottom-Up AI Adoption

[15:39] - The Carol Office Question

[26:00] - Why Use Hard-Coded XLOOKUP?

[29:56] - Building and Customizing an AI Agent

[36:36] - Career Transitions and AI in FP&A

[39:50] - Final Thoughts and Wrapping Up

In this episode, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper discuss the realities behind the AI hype cycle and how it's playing out in finance, from inflated ROI expectations to unscalable AI tools and organizational chaos, Paul and Glenn unpack what’s working, what’s failing, and why so many companies are stuck. With no guest this week, the duo shares their honest takes on the state of AI, its practical limits in financial workflows, and how companies are fumbling both bottom-up adoption and top-down implementation. This one’s a mix of hot takes, technical insight, and just enough despair to keep things real.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How bottom-up AI adoption is outpacing executive-led rollouts in finance.
• The problem with inflated expectations and what’s really causing AI project failures.
• Why Excel tools powered by AI are promising, but limited by context windows.
• How governance and data issues are crippling enterprise AI strategies.
• What OpenAI, Oracle, Nvidia, and Microsoft’s latest moves mean for the AI landscape.

AI isn’t a magic solution; it’s a powerful tool that still depends on good data, realistic goals, and a bit of patience. Paul and Glenn make it clear that while the hype is loud, real progress takes thoughtful implementation and education. The future of AI in finance looks promising, but only for teams willing to do the work.

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[01:56] - AI Hype Cycle Meltdown

[04:50] - AI Tools in Excel

[07:33] - Bottom-Up vs Top-Down Adoption

[11:33] - Why AI Projects Fail

[14:38] - Change Management Gaps

[17:23] - Context Window Limitations

[20:30] - Learn the Basics of AI

[23:11] - Oracle, Nvidia & OpenAI Deals

[30:07] - Microsoft Adds Anthropic to Copilot

[34:24] - Copilot Improvement & Wrap-Up