Incoming Statements

Diagnosing Data Gaps: Clearing the Path to Smarter Automation

In this episode of Incoming Statements, host Eli Geschwind sits down with Oscar Palacio, Partner of Business Transformation at CrossCountry Consulting [https://www.crosscountry-consulting.com/]. They explore the challenges accounting teams face when technology, process, and people don’t connect—and why the root cause often isn’t what it seems. Oscar shares why most teams use only a fraction of their accounting platforms' capabilities. He explains how misconfigured systems, training gaps, and overlooked features create manual work and missed opportunities. By leading cross-functional workshops, Oscar helps companies uncover hidden issues and build practical solutions that fit their real processes. He emphasizes the importance of trust, clear roles, and hands-on collaboration to get everyone moving in the same direction. The conversation turns to AI in finance. Oscar lays out a simple framework for choosing where to start, stressing that data quality comes first. He shows how the right approach to technology—paired with honest process review—can help accounting leaders move from manual fixes to strategic impact.

Accounting’s Next Chapter: AI, Data, and Determinism with Anthony Alvernaz

In this episode of Incoming Statements, host Sam Isaac sits down with Anthony Alvernaz, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer at Numeric. They explore why true automation in accounting depends on building accurate, connected data pipelines before layering on artificial intelligence or new workflows. Anthony explains how accounting teams face both technical and cultural hurdles—messy data, broken connections, and legacy habits—that stand in the way of streamlining the month-end close and audit process. Anthony shares how modern accounting tools must balance speed with accuracy. He argues that automation should never come at the expense of traceability or trust. For Anthony, the real work is giving accountants the right mix of automation, transparency, and control so they can focus on analysis, not just data entry. He sees the future of accounting as a combination of technical, process-minded professionals who use better data to tell a fuller story about their business. Throughout the conversation, Anthony brings a product leader’s perspective to the real challenges inside finance organizations. He emphasizes the need for a design that respects both the complexity of accounting and the people who do the work. For Anthony, the greatest progress comes from staying close to users, questioning assumptions, and making sure technology supports the people at the heart of every close.

Automation, Trust, and the Future of Controllership

Controllers are no longer just guardians of compliance. They can be growth catalysts. In this episode of Incoming Statements, guest host Eli Geschwind sits down with Thomas Neel, Controller at Celigo, to explore how finance leaders can drive revenue through smart systems, data, and process ownership. Thomas shares how controllers who take charge of core systems like NetSuite and CPQ can unlock hidden revenue opportunities. He walks through the power of cross-functional trust, why people must come before process, and how his team turned legacy pricing rules into new revenue streams. His journey shows how accounting can shift from cost center to strategy partner. The conversation also looks ahead. Thomas explains why teams should act more like data scientists than bookkeepers, how automation and AI are reshaping the controllership function, and why true revenue impact starts with a disciplined, program-management mindset.

Scaling for Success: Ajay Vashee's Journey from Dropbox to IVP

In this episode of Incoming Statements, Anthony Alvernaz sits down with Ajay Vashee, General Partner at IVP and former CFO of Dropbox. Ajay discusses his career path, sharing insights into his time at Dropbox and his transition to venture capital. He emphasizes the importance of purpose-driven companies and measurable metrics in achieving long-term success. Ajay explains how Dropbox's mission to simplify file sharing guided its early growth. He highlights the value of setting ambitious goals while remaining adaptable to market changes. He notes that companies should regularly check if their goals align with current market conditions and adjust as needed. Ajay also shares his perspective on the importance of attracting, developing, and retaining top talent. He stresses the need to provide clear communication and mentorship in helping teams grow and thrive. He closes with advice for building durable companies that can weather any storm.

Data Infrastructure: The Central Pillar for Modern Finance Operations

In this episode of Incoming Statements, host Anthony Alvernaz speaks with Sruthi Lanka, CFO of Public. With a unique background transitioning from software engineering during the financial crisis to finance leadership, Sruthi shares her perspective on how data and finance should be intertwined in modern financial operations. Sruthi discusses her philosophy that data warehousing should be central to finance teams, enabling daily financial visibility instead of traditional monthly reporting cycles. She explains how Public captures business metrics daily, and why she prioritizes hiring team members who demonstrate curiosity, technical expertise, and collaborative problem-solving skills. The conversation explores the incremental impact of AI on finance operations, Public's AI-powered investment assistant "Alpha," and Sruthi's approach to building flexible financial systems that can adapt to uncertainty. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the importance of first-principles thinking and building systems that support operational decision-making rather than just satisfying external stakeholders.