I’m writing to you from Sydney, before I head off to UFC#312 with my son….

Where lately, I’ve been thinking about …

According to Pro Bono Australia, only 40% of not-for-profit (NFP) boards believe they have adequate financial literacy to meet future challenges.

But here’s what’s fascinating – the problem isn’t about numbers at all.

It’s not even about accounting.

Let me explain with a story:

A senior leader once told me, “I struggle with finance because I find it really boring.”

I’ve heard many variations of this countless times.

But they’re all missing something crucial.

The best financial conversations don’t start with answers or complex accounting treatments.

They start with questions.

But not just any quesiton….
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Most people ask informational questions like “What’s our current cash position?”

But transformational leaders ask: “How does this expense improve our program outcomes?”

See the difference?

One question gives you data. The other gives you insight.
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Here’s what’s exciting:

You don’t need to be an accountant to have powerful financial conversations.

You need clarity about what matters.

Your Challenge This Week:

In your next financial discussion, try this:

Instead of asking “what” questions, ask “how” questions that connect resources to outcomes.

And watch how the conversation shifts from numbers to impact.
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Because understanding finance, despite what “Finance for Directors” courses may tell you, isn’t about embracing your inner accountant. It’s about asking questions that drive real change.

Matthew Needham is an accountant and former CFO who consults and speaks on improving organisational performance. He helps leaders without a finance background confidently engage in financial discussions, enabling better decisions that drive improved performance. For more information, visit matthewneedham.co.