This 2025 compilation episode looks back on key takeaways from CGMA credential holders and other experts featured on the FM podcast in the past year. The discussions focus on AI, skills gaps, leadership, and other topics.

What you'll learn from this episode:

• The potential of AI tools and the value of learning them early.
• Technology's impact on communication skills.
• One solution for creating more cohesive teams.
• Advice for navigating uncertainty and difficult colleagues.
• The link between leadership and imposter syndrome.

The latest episode of the podcast provides an overview of content in the December digital edition of FM. Editor-in-chief Oliver Rowe summarises articles that detail the Rise2040 project and other future-focused topics.

The episode closes with an explanation of how members can access the December digital edition as well as the issue library.

What you'll learn from this episode:

• The December digital edition's focus on the future.
• Why IFRS 18 is "more than an incremental update".
• Details of the article on AI visualisation tools by Liam Bastick, FCMA, CGMA.
• Advice for finance professionals who have an eye on the C-suite.

Change consultant and executive coach Nicola Hopes shares several tips and tricks for crafting intentional business projects that can facilitate meaningful changes for organisations.

Hopes explains the fundamental questions that help ensure projects achieve intended outcomes, the importance of knowing what good looks like throughout the process, and how leaders can better balance project demands alongside their day-to-day responsibilities.

"I've seen lots of organisations passionate about doing a great project," Hopes said. "And, at the end of it, what's delivered doesn't quite solve the problem they were trying to solve, or it doesn't quite realise the opportunity, because they just weren't clear enough about what good looks like. Unless you've painted that picture really clearly, you don't know how to navigate the problems as you go through."

Resource: Nicola Hopes' UK & Ireland ENGAGE slides.

What you'll learn from this episode:

• Crucial areas to understand before taking on a business project.
• How to improve your approach when pitching initiatives to stakeholders.
• Digital tools that can help organise key information.
• Strategies for improving interpersonal skills.
• How leaders can help stakeholders find common ground during disagreements.
• Three ways leaders can save time and resources on projects.