In the latest episode of Content Head, host Joe Michalowski welcomes Paul Barnhurst, also known as the FP&A Guy. Paul shares his journey from a finance professional at American Express to a successful full-time content creator and influencer. With a focus on financial planning and analysis (FP&A), Paul has built a substantial audience through his insightful content, training sessions, and three popular podcasts.
Paul discusses the importance of learning from creators to enhance marketing efforts, emphasizing the need for content teams to stay relevant and engaging. He highlights the challenges and rewards of building a personal brand in the finance space, sharing valuable lessons from his own experiences. Listeners will gain insights into the strategies Paul used to grow his audience and the significance of consistency in content creation.
The episode also dives into the nuances of creating content for a finance audience, addressing the high expectations and technical nature of the field. Paul offers practical advice for marketers on how to connect with finance professionals and create content that truly resonates. Tune in for an inspiring and informative conversation with one of the leading voices in financial content creation.
Featured Guest
Name: Paul Barnhurst
What he does: The FP&A Guy
Noteworthy: Paul Barnhurst, known as the FP&A Guy, transitioned from a finance leader at American Express to a full-time content creator. He has built a substantial audience by focusing on financial planning and analysis, and he hosts three popular podcasts: FP&A Tomorrow, Financial Modeler’s Corner, and Future Finance.
Featured Guest
Key Insights
The Importance of Learning from Creators
In today’s marketing landscape, it is crucial for marketing teams to learn from content creators who have successfully built large, engaged audiences. Creators often innovate with fresh, engaging content that captures the attention of diverse audiences. Marketers can benefit from adopting similar strategies to avoid staying in their own bubble, producing content that only appeals to a niche market. By observing and integrating creators’ techniques, marketing teams can enhance their content quality and broaden their reach. This approach helps in setting higher standards and achieving greater engagement across various platforms.
Consistency as a Cornerstone of Content Creation
Consistency is a critical element in building and maintaining an audience for any content creator. Posting regularly, even without a rigid content calendar, can significantly contribute to growing a dedicated following. Consistency helps in establishing a reliable presence, keeping the audience engaged and anticipating new content. It also allows creators to refine their content strategy over time, learning what resonates best with their audience. This perseverance not only builds credibility but also fosters a deeper connection with the audience, encouraging continued engagement and support.
Tailoring Content for Finance Audiences
Creating content for finance professionals requires an understanding of their unique preferences and high standards. There are generally two main segments in this audience: those new to financial planning and analysis (FP&A) and experienced senior leaders. For the former, content can be more basic and educational, focusing on foundational concepts. For the latter, the content needs to be more in-depth, addressing current trends and advanced topics. Catering to these distinct groups effectively involves balancing technical details with broader insights to ensure relevance and engagement across the board.
