257 | Fractional CFOs: The Secret Weapon for Scaling, Selling, and Stress-Free Success
Release Date: 09/25/2025
Art of Consulting Podcast
00;00;00;01 - 00;00;31;05 Andy Hey, everybody, today I want to talk about the things we can do and decisions we can make ahead of time before something becomes an issue. Recently, most of us know about the government shutdown that had recently occurred. This is being recorded, November 24th, so of 2025. So anybody who wasn't aware of it in the US, the government had shut down, which was affecting air traffic because the air traffic controllers, some of them were having difficulty getting to work and some of them were being overworked because the government wasn't funded and they weren't...
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The Art of Consulting Podcast – Episode Transcript Hosts: Andy Fry & Cat Lam Episode Topic: Non-Disclosure Agreements and the Power of Keeping Information Confidential [00:00 – Intro Music] Andy Fry & Cat Lam (together): Welcome to the Art of Consulting Podcast with Andy Fry and Cat Lam. We are seasoned IT consultants, CPAs, and professional-development connoisseurs. Each episode we bring you an inspiring message to help you discover that X-factor as a professional in your field so you can gain the success you know you deserve in your career and in your life. [00:15] Andy Fry: Hey...
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Why We Should Assume Someone Is Always Recording In this solo episode, Andy Fry reflects on how everyday behavior—inside and outside the workplace—shapes our personal brand and professional reputation. Through personal stories and relatable lessons, he reminds listeners that in today’s world of smartphones and social media, every action could be on record. Andy shares an eye-opening story about visiting a college track team whose coach insisted her athletes greet everyone politely because “you never know who you’re talking to.” That lesson sparked a deeper conversation about...
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Power Moves: Inside Energy Innovation and Consulting with Ashton Fox In this episode, Cat sits down with Ashton Fox, President of Onix Energy, to explore how consulting and executive leadership are reshaping the future of energy. With an impressive career spanning renewable energy, natural gas, and electricity supply, Ashton brings a wealth of experience on scaling organizations, transforming business models, and leading companies through high-stakes change. Ashton shares how he helped transform a negative-revenue startup into a $150M powerhouse, scaled solar and renewable operations across...
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In this episode of the Art of Consulting Podcast, hosts Andy Fry and Cat Lam sit down with Drew Mair, President of Ridgeline Solar, to explore his inspiring journey from Alberta’s oil and gas sector to building one of the most respected solar manpower companies in Western Canada. Drew shares how his early career as an electrician shaped his transition into renewable energy, and the challenges of moving from “one guy in a truck” to running a full-fledged solar construction business. He talks candidly about balancing golden handcuffs with flexibility, the risks of entrepreneurship, and the...
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Breaking Barriers: Svetlana Winters’ Journey from Russia to CFO in American Oil & Gas In this episode, we sit down with Svetlana Winters, CFO at Alteriver, whose journey from Russia to the executive boardroom of a U.S. oil & gas company is nothing short of inspiring. Svetlana shares how she left a top finance role in Russia to start over in the United States—facing language barriers, cultural challenges, and the uphill climb of rebuilding her career from the ground up. Her story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the strength required to thrive in male-dominated...
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Fractional CFOs: Turning Financial Chaos Into Strategic Wins with Emily Statler In today’s episode, Cat welcomes Emily Statler, a seasoned Fractional CFO and Financial Coach who has spent more than 20 years helping consultants transform financial headaches into strategic victories. Emily shares how fractional CFOs are no longer just for big corporations — consultants, solopreneurs, and small-to-mid-sized firms can all benefit from high-level financial guidance without the burden of a full-time hire. Together, Cat and Emily dive into three key perspectives: For solopreneurs and...
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Andy shares a story of a difficult time in his life where an apparent unassuming event helped move him forward and change his perspective. This began a path a consistent changes for the better.
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In this episode Andy walks through two approaches he's used to achieve goals that take a long time to accomplish. How to breakdown goals into smaller components and how to continue a consistent approach to achievement.
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In this episode Andy discusses that there is typically one project that defines our career, will we continue in consulting, or will will switch careers. He discusses the signs and when this typically occurs as well as how to approach it. Its also a reminder for more seasoned consultants that this happens to others (and you may have forgotten it happened to you) and it may happen with minor changes in our careers.
info_outlineFractional CFOs: Turning Financial Chaos Into Strategic Wins with Emily Statler
In today’s episode, Cat welcomes Emily Statler, a seasoned Fractional CFO and Financial Coach who has spent more than 20 years helping consultants transform financial headaches into strategic victories.
Emily shares how fractional CFOs are no longer just for big corporations — consultants, solopreneurs, and small-to-mid-sized firms can all benefit from high-level financial guidance without the burden of a full-time hire.
Together, Cat and Emily dive into three key perspectives:
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For solopreneurs and consultants: How to know when it’s time to bring in financial expertise (hint: when your bank balance is always scraping zero or you’re working nonstop with little to show for it).
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For growing firms: Why having clean books, cash flow clarity, and an exit strategy early on is critical if you want to scale or eventually sell.
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For aspiring fractional CFOs: Emily’s own journey from bookkeeper to trusted financial partner, including how to land that first client and build confidence in this fast-growing field.
They also unpack hot topics like:
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How CFOs often bridge finance and operations
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What buyers really look for when valuing a consulting business
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Why having a clear exit strategy is essential, even if you never plan to sell
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The mindset shift required to stop “DIY-ing” everything and start building a sustainable business
This episode is packed with actionable insights for consultants who want to not only hit revenue goals but also build a business (and life) they actually love.
🔗 What Guest is Promoting
Emily’s latest work can be found at Starr Books.
If someone enjoyed the show, shoot me a connection on LinkedIn—I'm all about meeting new people, swapping ideas, and growing together...
👉 Connect with Cat on LinkedIn
👤 Guest Bio – Emily Statler
Meet Emily Statler, a Fractional CFO and Financial Coach with 20+ years of experience helping consultants turn financial headaches into strategic wins. Emily empowers consulting professionals to master cash flow, boost profitability, and truly enjoy their financial journey.
Her passion lies in connecting financial strategy to both business growth and personal fulfillment—ensuring clients not only hit revenue targets but also achieve the life goals that matter most. Emily’s approach goes beyond spreadsheets, focusing on financial freedom that lets consultants scale their impact and live their dream lifestyle.
Outside of work, you’ll find her soaring on new adventures, spending time with family, and prioritizing self-care.