How It Works — Sane Books

From confused to in control. Here's exactly what happens.

Whether you're just starting out or already running a $10M operation, the path starts the same place: find out where you actually stand.

Two Paths, One Starting Point

This works whether you're building or scaling.

If you're not ready for a CFO yet — any business owner making under $20M, including those still in the idea stage — you start with the free course and move through the library at your own pace, learning to read and act on your numbers directly.

If your business has outgrown DIY — generally $2.5M–$15M in revenue, in construction, manufacturing, home services, or service-only industries — the same starting point applies, but you'll likely move faster into CFO Services once we understand your operation.

Step by Step

What actually happens at each stage

1

Take the Finance IQ Test

A free, 5-minute diagnostic across four areas: financial reporting, profitability, cash flow, and fund management. As soon as you finish, you get your score and a plain-language read on where you stand — from Financial Explorer to Financial Mastermind.

2

Start with the free course

Everyone starts here, regardless of score. "Why Can't You Read Your Financial Reports?" is self-paced — about a couple of hours start to finish — and covers the three foundational ideas every owner needs before anything else matters.

3

Move through the course library

Once you've completed the foundation, you'll be first to know as Cash Flow & Profitability and Executive Financial Command become available — each building directly on what you learned in the free course, matched to where your Finance IQ score placed you.

4

If you're ready, talk to Carolina

If your business fits the CFO Services profile, the "See If You're a Fit" step books you directly onto Carolina's calendar for a discovery call — no automated intake queue in between. You'll talk through your business, your numbers, and whether fractional CFO support is the right next move.

Common Questions

Before you start

Is the free course actually free?

Yes. No credit card, no trial that converts to a charge. It's the same foundation every Sane Books owner starts with.

What if my business doesn't fit the CFO Services revenue range?

The course library isn't limited by revenue — it's built for any business owner making under $20M, including people who haven't started a business yet. CFO Services is the more selective tier for businesses with the complexity to justify it.

Do I need an accounting background?

No — that's the point. Everything is built in plain language for operators, not accountants.

I'm not sure which path I need. What should I do first?

Take the Finance IQ Test. It takes five minutes, and the result points you to the right next step either way.

Ready to find out where you stand?

Five minutes. No jargon, no judgment.

Take the Free Finance IQ Test →