Financial Modeler's Corner
Financial Modeler's Corner is a podcast about the art and science of financial modeling. Host Paul Barnhurst, also known as The FP&A Guy, interviews distinguished financial modelers from around the world. The show explores best practices, tools, and careers in finance and FP&A. It is presented by the Financial Modeling Institute, which offers financial modeling accreditations.
Episodes
Stop Letting AI Do All Your Thinking in Financial Modeling with Danielle Stein-Fairhurst
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Danielle Stein Fairhurst to discuss how AI is reshaping financial modeling, what modelers need to do to stay relevant, and why strategic thinking matters more than ever. Danielle also shares practical lessons from training financial modelers, working with real-world client models, and preparing for the Advanced Finan
AI, Excel and the Changing Role of Financial Modelers with Danielle Stein Fairhurst
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Danielle Stein Fairhurst to discuss how AI is changing financial modeling, why modelers need to keep learning, and how dynamic arrays are shaping the future of Excel. Danielle also shares her thoughts on model design, AFM exam preparation, and why strategic thinking still matters in an AI-driven world.Danielle Stein
Poker, Probability, and Financial Modeling with Dan Mayoh
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Dan Mayoh to discuss his career in financial modeling, lessons from model auditing, and why he sees Excel as one of the world’s most accessible programming languages. Dan also shares how mathematical modeling, poker, and probability have shaped his approach to risk and decision-making under uncertainty.Dan Mayoh is t
Financial Modeling, Deal Making, and the Skills Every Analyst Needs with Oren Klaff
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Oren Klaff, Private Equity Fund Manager and bestselling author of Pitch Anything, to discuss how financial modeling can support deal-making, investment decisions, and career growth. Oren shares how modeling helped him move from financial analyst to dealmaker.Oren Klaff is a Private Equity Fund Manager and the author
Building AI for the Top 1% of Excel Users with Peter Fuller
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, the Mod Squad, Ian Schnoor, Giles Male, and Paul Barnhurst, speak with Peter Fuller about AI-powered financial modeling and the rapidly changing future of Excel. Peter shares how Tracelight evolved from an AI-for-Excel tool into a broader AI workspace for professionals in finance and consulting.Peter Fuller is the Co-Founder and CEO of Tracelight, bas
Pitch Anything's Oren Klaff: From Spreadsheet to Deal Table
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Oren Klaff about how financial modeling can become a powerful tool for deal-making, investment decisions, and career growth. Oren explains why modelers should focus on identifying key sensitivities, communicating insights effectively, and helping buyers and sellers find ways to make deals work rather than simply pointing out
Why AI Makes Financial Modeling Best Practices More Important with Marli van Staden-Basson
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Marli van Staden-Basson about best-practice financial modeling, AI, model design, and the skills needed to build reliable models. Marli explains why transparency, usability, and risk management matter, and how AI makes strong modeling practices even more important.Marli van Staden-Basson is the founder and financial modeling
What Separates an Excellent Financial Modeler From a Technically Good One with Diarmuid Early
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Diarmuid Early about what separates great financial modelers from technically capable ones, the rise of AI in financial modeling, and why judgment remains essential. Diarmuid shares lessons from his career, his experience as a three-time World Financial Modeling Champion, and why understanding what a model actually means mat
Can Financial Modelers Trust AI to Build Reliable Models? with Ryan Humphrey
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Ryan Humphrey about financial model auditing, the skills strong modelers need, and how AI is changing the profession. Ryan explains why communication, judgment, and independence matter alongside technical ability. He also shares how model audits work, why poorly structured models create risks, and how AI could shift financia
AI Can Build the Model, But Can You Trust It? with Ryan Humphrey
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Ryan Humphrey about financial model auditing, the skills strong modelers need, and how AI is changing the profession. Ryan explains why communication, judgment, and trust matter as much as technical ability. He also shares how model audits work, why poorly structured models create serious risks, and why finance professionals
AI vs. Financial Modeling World Champion: Who Wins, and What Can We Learn from It
In this episode of The ModSquad, Paul Barnhurst, Giles Male, and Ian Schnoor are joined by Excel and Financial Modeling World Champions Michael Jarman and Diarmuid Early to discuss a unique “man versus machine” financial modeling challenge.The group breaks down their experience testing AI against expert modelers using real financial modeling and Excel competition cases. They explore where AI perfo
Can Competition Make You Better at Finance? with Eric Kelley
In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Dr. Eric Kelley, Finance Professor | Microsoft MVP (Excel), and one of the leading educators in financial modeling. Eric shares how his passion for teaching, mathematics, and financial markets led him into academia, and why developing scalable financial models starts with understanding the business before opening Excel.Dr.
The Human Financial Modeler: AI insights from 60+ global experts
In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Ian Schnoor, Executive Director of the Financial Modeling Institute. They discuss the future of financial modeling in the age of AI, with a focus on how modelers are using AI today, where human judgment still matters, and what governance, ethics, and skill development look like going forward.Expect to Learn:Why communi
Building Financial Modeling Skills While Playing an E-Sport Game with Professor Eric Kelley
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Dr. Eric Kelley, finance professor, Microsoft Excel MVP, and financial modeling educator, to discuss how financial modeling education is evolving through Excel Esports and hands-on learning. Eric shares how he uses competitions, real-world cases, and structured modeling techniques to help students build stronger financial
AI Financial Modeling Test for Finance Pros to Understand the Limitations Using Real Tool Comparison
In this episode of The Mod Squad, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male put today's leading AI tools to the test in a live financial modeling "bake-off." Using the same modeling case and prompts, they compare ChatGPT, Claude, and Copilot to see how well each tool builds a financial model. The discussion highlights the progress AI has made, where it still falls short, and why financial modeli
Spatial Finance: How Satellite Data Is Enhancing Financial Models, with Jorge Rojas
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Jorge Rojas, finance professor, consultant, and Advanced Financial Modeler, to explore how emerging technologies are reshaping financial modeling. Jorge shares insights from his latest research on spatial finance and Earth observation data, explaining how satellite imagery, AI, and alternative data sources are transformin
AI in Financial Modeling: Better Than Ever, Still Not There, and the Fatigue Factor
In this episode of The Mod Squad, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male share their real experiences using AI in financial modeling. They discuss what works, what doesn’t, and how finance professionals can best use AI today. From testing different AI tools to running a “bake-off” on a real financial model, the conversation highlights the practical challenges, hallucinations, and creative app
The Language and Excel Problem Stopping AI from Fixing Financial Modeling with John Yeldham
In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, Paul Barnhurst talks with John Yeldham, founder of Lodeum, about building trust in Excel models, standardizing modeling language, and creating modular, scalable models. John shares his experience leading financial modelers and using advanced Excel features like Lambda functions and dynamic arrays. Expect to Learn:Standardize language to improve clarity
The Critical Role of Communication and Standard Definitions in Financial Modeling with John Yeldham
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst sits down with John Yeldham, a leading expert in financial modeling and founder of Lodeum, a global online financial modeling training platform. John shares his experience leading and training teams of financial modelers across corporate and project finance, and discusses the importance of standardizing language, modular model design, a
How Founders Mistake Models Only for Fundraising and What They Should Do With Ilyas Anis
Paul Barnhurst speaks with Ilyas Anis, CFO and Chartered Financial Modeler, about using financial models to build stakeholder confidence, drive operational decisions, and tell a clear business story. Ilyas shares insights on integrating AI, avoiding common modeling pitfalls, and the importance of scenario analysis and three-statement models. Ilyas Anis is Finance Lead at Turning Point Brands Canad
The Mistakes in Structure and Data Thinking That Break Models with Mark Proctor
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) is joined by guest Mark Proctor. Together, they discuss the intricacies of financial modeling and data analysis, with a focus on building efficient models and leveraging automation in Excel. Mark shares his deep expertise on why structure is key, how to automate tedious tasks, and how Excel continues to evolv
AI in Investment Banking for Analysts to Adapt as Workflows Change but Jobs Remain – Matan
Paul Barnhurst speaks with Matan Feldman, Founder and CEO of Wall Street Prep. Matan shares his insights from his career in investment banking and financial modeling, discussing how AI is transforming the investment banking landscape, its impact on financial modeling, and the future of financial modeling education. He reflects on his journey founding Wall Street Prep and the lessons he’s learned a
The Investment Banking Job Hasn't Changed Since 1990. AI Is Changing That with Wall Street Prep CEO Matan Feldman
Paul Barnhurst speaks with Matan Feldman, Founder and CEO of Wall Street Prep. Matan shares insights from his career in investment banking and financial modeling, discussing the future of AI in the industry, its impact on investment banking roles, and how it will reshape financial modeling education. He also reflects on his journey founding Wall Street Prep and the lessons he's learned along the w
Financial Modeling for Analysts to Build Clear, Structured Models for Better Decisions with Shreya Bhatt
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Shreya Bhatt about her journey in financial modeling and her experience working across infrastructure and project finance. Shreya shares real challenges she has faced, including rebuilding poorly structured models, and explains what makes a model reliable and easy to use. The conversation also covers modeling standards, prac
AI in Finance for Professionals Dealing with Errors, Overhype, and Constant Learning Pressure
In this episode of The Mod Squad, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male share their real experiences using AI in financial modelling. They cut through the hype and discuss what AI actually does well, where it still struggles, and how professionals should be thinking about using it today. From building models to handling workflows, the conversation highlights both the value and the limitation
The Rise of Evergreen Funds for Retail Investors to Enter Private Markets with Rafael
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst is joined by Rafael Le Saux to explore the real-world challenges of financial modeling, valuation, and how the role is evolving with new tools like AI. They discuss why strong modeling fundamentals still matter, the risks of poorly structured models, and how professionals can improve their skills in a rapidly changing environment.Rafael
Evergreen Fund Growth and the NAV Valuation Challenges Financial Modelers Face with Rafael
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Rafael Le Saux to talk about valuation, modeling, and how the field is changing. They dig into real challenges from working on complex models and what happens when things go wrong. The conversation also covers how private markets are evolving and why valuation is getting harder. It’s a practical look at how modeling conne
What Every Finance Student Should Learn Before Graduating with Riley Edwards
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Riley Edwards to discuss what it’s like starting out in financial modeling and how those skills carry into real-world financial planning. The conversation covers early mistakes, learning experiences, and the importance of presenting financial information clearly. Riley shares his journey from studying finance to working i
Excel Will Never Be the Same Again after AI Copilot with Brian Jones
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Brian Jones to explore how Excel is evolving in the era of AI and large language models. They discuss how Copilot, agent mode, and AI-driven capabilities are transforming the way users build, analyse, and improve spreadsheets. Brian shares insights into how Excel is becoming more like a developer tool and how AI can
AI Builds Obsession for Financial Modelers to Refocus on Specification Testing and Trust Now
In this episode of The ModSquad, Ian Bennett, Partner at PwC, joins Paul Barnhurst, Giles Male, and Ian Schnoor to discuss the rapid changes happening in financial modeling with the rise of AI. The team explores how AI tools like Claude are revolutionizing the industry, the critical role of strong modeling skills, and the ongoing importance of trust in financial modeling. They also touch on the fu
How Microsoft is Making Excel an AI-Powered Platform with Product Manager Brian Jones
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Brian Jones, Vice-President: Microsoft Excel, Forms, Office Platforms, to discuss how Excel is evolving in the era of AI and large language models. They explore how Copilot, agent mode, and AI-driven features are reshaping how professionals build, analyse, and improve spreadsheets. Brian also shares insights into how
Tips For Aligning the Forecasting Process between Finance and Operations with Amber Johnson
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Amber Johnson to discuss forecasting, financial modeling, and how operational decisions impact financial outcomes. They explore the connection between logistics forecasting and financial forecasting, the importance of tracking forecast accuracy and bias, and how small operational issues can create large financial imp
Why Structure and Design are Critical Elements of Trust and Credibility in Financial Modeling with Nick Boberg
In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst chats with Nick Boberg, a financial modeler and consultant based in Hamilton, New Zealand. Paul and Nick explore the essentials of building well-structured, effective financial models. They discuss Nick’s approach to simplicity and consistency, the importance of clarity in model design, and the role of competition in refining one’s
We Tested Claude Opus 4.6 and the Results were Super Impressive
In this episode of The ModSquad, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male put Claude 4.6 to the test on real financial modeling accreditation cases. From three-statement forecasts to complex debt sculpting scenarios, the team examines just how far AI tools have come. The results are impressive, but not flawless. The discussion explores what this leap forward means for finance professionals and
AI in Finance for Modelers to Succeed by Mastering the Fundamentals with Chris Reilly
In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Chris Reilly, founder of Financial Modeling Education, for an insightful discussion on the importance of mastering financial modeling fundamentals in the age of AI. Chris shares his perspective on how AI is transforming the modeling industry, why understanding the basics is more important than ever, and how dynamic arr
Financial Modelers Must Master the Fundamentals Before Trusting AI with Chris Reilly
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes back Chris Reilly for a deep and practical conversation on financial modeling fundamentals in the age of AI. Chris shares why mastering the basics still matters more than ever, how AI is changing modeling workflows in reality (not hype), and where automation genuinely adds value versus where human judgment is still essenti
The Excel Techniques for Modelers to Build Real World-Business Forecasts - Luke Phillips
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Luke Phillips, Senior Business Analyst at Access Analytic. Luke shares how he transitioned from Division I basketball to financial modeling, and how he helps clients solve complex budgeting and reporting problems using Solver, Excel, and Power BI.Luke Phillips is a chartered financial modeler and the Senior Business
The Storytelling Techniques for Financial Modelers to Impress Investors with Karishma Karishma Ramnawaj
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Karishma Ramnawaj, a financial modeler based in Mauritius, to talk about her journey in financial modelling, building and reviewing models, and the lessons she’s learned from both success and failure. Karishma shares her experience of learning on the job, why understanding the end user is critical, and how she bala
How Excel AI Agents Actually Work for Financial Modelers to Understand LLMs & Tools with Tim Jacks
In this episode of The ModSquad, hosts Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male welcome Tim Jacks, founder of Taglo, for an insightful discussion on the integration of AI in financial modeling. Tim’s expertise bridges the worlds of financial modeling and AI, and in this episode, he shares his journey and discusses how AI is reshaping the financial modeling landscape.Tim Jacks is the founder of
Financial Modeling for Corporate Finance Teams to Unlock Business Without Templates - Carolina Lago
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Carolina Lago, a seasoned FP&A professional, to discuss how financial modelers can transform data into actionable insights while avoiding common modeling pitfalls. Together, they explore best practices in financial modeling, the dangers of hard-coded models, and why structure, flexibility, and clear purpose are essenti
What 2025 Taught Us About Excel AI and Where Financial Modeling Is Heading in 2026
In this special episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst recaps an exciting 2025 and outlines what's ahead for 2026. Paul reflects on the top five most downloaded episodes of the year, shares insights from key guests, and highlights major developments in financial modeling, including Excel's newest features and the growing role of AI.Expect to LearnKey trends in Excel and financi
How Curiosity and Listening Help Financial Modelers Build Trusted Models with Ian Bennett
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Ian Bennett, Partner and Deals Modelling Leader at PwC Australia, to discuss the art and science of financial modeling. Together, they explore what makes a good financial modeler, how Excel has evolved dramatically in recent years, and how emerging tools and AI are shaping the future of modeling. Ian reflects on his decade
We Tested 7 AI Tools in Excel for Financial Modeling, and None Could Build a Reliable Model
In this episode of The ModSquad, hosts Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male are joined by Tea Kuseva, Community Manager at the Financial Modeling Institute, for a detailed discussion on the state of AI tools in financial modeling. The group continues its hands-on testing of seven tools, including TabAI, Excel Agent, Shortcut, and TrufflePig, evaluating how these platforms perform on real-wo
What Happens When the AI Tools Fail Basic Math and More with Ian and Giles
In this episode of The Mod Squad, hosts Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male continue their hands-on testing of AI tools for financial modeling. This time, they put Subset, an AI-powered spreadsheet tool still in beta, through its paces. The hosts explore whether Subset can realistically handle core financial modeling tasks, including importing Excel files, building three-statement models,
The Reality of AI Excel Tools for Finance Teams to Understand Formula Complexity with Ian and Giles
In this episode of The Mod Squad, hosts Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male continue their exploration of tools for financial modeling. This time, they test Melder, a tool designed to streamline financial modeling tasks in Excel. The hosts evaluate how it handles various financial exercises, such as creating formulas and generating a deferred revenue schedule. While the tool shows promise,
TrufflePig AI vs Excel for Finance Teams from Building Models to Real-Time DCFs with Ian Schnoor
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Ian Schnoor continue their exploration of AI tools for financial modeling. This time, they test Trufflepig, a tool designed to help financial analysts automate spreadsheet tasks while still allowing them to focus on the insights. The hosts test Trufflepig on various financial modeling tasks, discussing its performance and how
Elkar AI Put to the Test in Live Financial Modeling with Honest Results for Modellers - Ian & Giles
In this episode of The ModSquad on Financial Modeler’s Corner, Giles Male and Ian Schnoor put Elkar to the test, a financial modeling tool that's been getting attention for its speed and slick design. From solving structured Excel challenges to building full forecast models, they push the tool to its limits. What follows is a revealing look at how Elkar performs when accuracy, logic, and professio
Testing Shortcut AI's bold claims: Did it live up to the hype with Giles Male
In this episode of The ModSquad on Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst and Giles Male put Shortcut under the AI microscope, testing one of the most hyped AI tools in the financial modeling world. With claims like “the most accurate Excel agent in the world” and the ability to outperform human champions in modeling tasks, Shortcut has made a big splash, but does it live up to its own bold pr
How TabAI stacks up as an Excel AI Agent for Financial Modeling Pros, with Ian and Giles
In this episode of The Mod Squad on Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male take a close look at TabAI, a tool designed to simplify and speed up Excel tasks using automation and intelligent suggestions. With more tools dropping out of the market and Excel’s own Agent feature gaining ground, the question is simple: Does TabAI offer something worth switching to? From
How AI Excel Tools Stackup Against the Hype and How Excel Agent Has Disrupted the Marketplace with Ian and Giles
In Episode 5 of The ModSquad on Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male take a hard look at the changing landscape of financial modeling in the wake of Microsoft’s release of Excel Agent. Since launching at the end of September to coincide with Excel’s 40th birthday, Excel Agent has quickly changed the competitive dynamics for AI-powered modeling tools. The team exp
Testing The New Microsoft Excel Agent for Finance Pros with Ian and Giles
In this episode of The ModSquad on Financial Modeler's Corner, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male explore Microsoft’s newly released Excel Agent, a beta tool designed to bring AI into Excel Online. The team compares its performance to Rosie AI, running both through a range of tasks, including formula building, audit reviews, and a full five-year model forecast. Along the way, they test th
How Excel AI Agents Like Rosie Work for FP&A Tasks but Fail at Building Models with Giles and Ian
Note: This episode was recorded and scheduled for release before the recent announcement that Rosie AI is shutting down.In this episode of the ModSquad series on Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by modeling experts Ian Schnoor and Giles Male to evaluate Rosie AI, a new tool that integrates with both Excel and Google Sheets. Together, they test its capabilities in building
Testing Excel AI Software Tracelight on Excel Esports, Financial Modeling and FP&A with Ian And Giles
Disclaimer: This episode is best experienced in video format. Since we’re testing new tools like Tracelight, the visuals add valuable context and make everything much clearer. We highly recommend watching the video for the full experience.In this episode of the ModSquad series on Financial Modelers’ Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by modeling experts Ian Schnoor and Giles Male to evaluate Tr
Introducing the ModSquad: Testing AI Financial Modeling Tools, So you Don't Have To... with Ian and Giles.
In this special launch episode of The Mod Squad, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by co-hosts Giles Male and Ian Schnoor to explore the evolving intersection of artificial intelligence and financial modeling. Together, they introduce a new podcast series, The ModSquad, designed to test AI tools built for financial modelers, FP&A professionals, and analysts. The trio shares their excitement, cauti
Financial Modeling for Finance Pros to Fix Real-World Mistakes Using Balance Sheets - Scott Strachan
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst speaks with financial modeling expert Scott Strachan about the role of financial models in business planning and decision-making. Scott shares lessons from over 30 years of experience in accounting, consulting, private equity, and corporate finance. The discussion covers the importance of modeling for startups, the problems with an
Why Finance Students Must Learn Discipline Before AI Replaces Their Jobs with David Stangeland
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Host Paul Barnhurst sits down with David Stangeland, a finance professor at the University of Manitoba, to talk about teaching financial modeling, how students learn best, and the tools that have changed over the years, from PV tables to Excel. David shares what he's learned from more than 30 years in the classroom, why planning is so important in mod
From Classic Cars to Aircraft: The Art of Modeling Distressed Companies with Vaughan Grandin
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Vaughan Grandin, Managing Director and Head of Financial Modeling at Teneo. They discuss his experiences building financial models in distressed situations, the importance of empathy in working with clients, and provide examples of complex models, including those from the airline, aircraft leasing, and classic car dealersh
Why Spreadsheets Will Stay, but Financial Modeling Workflow and Version Control Must Be Rebuilt with Matt Lee
In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Matthew Lee, Co-Founder and CEO of Nummo, a software tool built to help analysts and bankers build financial models more efficiently. Matt explains why he started the company after years in investment banking and as a CFO, and what he sees as the real opportunities and limits of automation in financial modeling. The co
How Finance Modelers and Professionals Align Stakeholders and Support M&A Success with Morten
In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Morten Lykke Pedersen, a seasoned financial expert and Partner at Deloitte, where he leads the financial modeling division within the Strategy, Risk, and Transaction Advisory group. Morten discusses his extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), strategic financial modeling, and how financial models ca
The 40th Anniversary of Excel: Unlocking the fascinating History, Easter Eggs, Excel humor, and more
In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst celebrates the 40th anniversary of Microsoft Excel, a tool that has revolutionized the financial modeling industry and many others. Paul explores Excel’s fascinating history, its evolution over four decades, and shares interesting facts, hidden Easter eggs, and fun surprises that Excel enthusiasts will appreciate. From the first gr
Three-Statement Modelling for FP&A Pros to Avoid Complex Builds & Forecast Errors with Chris Reilly
In this republished episode of the Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst revisits the intricate world of financial modeling with returning guest Christopher Reilly. The conversation centers around what is necessary to build robust financial models, highlighting the importance of three-statement models and cash flow forecasting. The episode is filled with practical insights, advanced tech
How FP&A Teams Turn Confusing Budgets into Strategic Tools That Drive Alignment with Sarah Schlott
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Sarah Schlott, founder of The Schlott Company. Sarah shares her perspective on why financial models often fail, not because of bad math, but because they don’t reflect how real businesses work. She talks about what it takes to earn trust as a finance partner, how to clean up messy data without losing momentum, and the impo
An AI Excel Tool for Finance Teams to Speed Up DCFs and Scenario Modelling with Nico Christie
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Nico Christie, co-founder of Fundamental Research Labs and creator of Shortcut, the superhuman Excel agent. Nico shares insights into his fascinating journey, from being a professional athlete to leading groundbreaking AI projects. Together, they explain how AI is revolutionizing financial modeling and making Excel smarter
The Truth About Project Finance for Modelers to Avoid Complexity & Build Impact with Patrick Daguet
In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Patrick Daguet, a seasoned finance professional, educator, and structured finance expert for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about the real-world side of financial modeling. With over four decades in the industry, Patrick shares what he's learned from years of building models, working on massive infrastructur
How Financial Modelers Rely on Memorability, Not Accuracy, to Get Ahead in Excel with Finance Bro
In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst invites "Your Average Finance Bro," for a light-hearted and humorous conversation about financial modeling. The episode takes a comedic spin on the often serious world of finance, diving into the importance of Excel, the art of building memorable models, and even how Excel proficiency can play a role in dating. Expect a mix of fun
How Students Master Financial Modeling and Bridge the CFA Practical Skills Gap with Stephen Horan
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Dr. Stephen Horan to discuss the fundamentals of financial modeling, the challenges and rewards of teaching finance, and how curiosity and simplicity are central to both education and professional modeling. Dr. Horan draws on his extensive experience as a finance professor and former Managing Director at CFA Institute, off
Building a Practical Financial Modeling Course for students focused on sustainability with Michael & Janice
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst speaks with Janice Shade and Michael Tapia about the intersection of sustainability, financial modeling, and education. They share the behind-the-scenes creation of a unique MBA course focused on sustainable finance and modeling at Bard College. The episode dives into horror stories from the modeling trenches, highlights the challe
CFM Certification Tips for Financial Modelers to Pass Without 100 Hours with Carolina Lago
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst and co-host Carolina Lago explore their experiences with financial modeling and the Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) certification. They discuss the value of these certifications, the challenges of studying for them, and how these programs can improve financial modeling skills. They also provide helpful tips and insights into prepa
How Finance Professionals Can Grow with Excel, Avoid Automation Traps, and Build a Brand with Jon Acampora
In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Jon Acampora to discuss the ever-evolving world of financial modeling, focusing on Excel. Jon shares about the importance of creating user-friendly models and the impact of Excel Esports on financial modeling skills. The conversation covers best practices for building efficient models, lessons from Excel competitions
Excel SIM Method for Finance Students to Master Three Statement Models Fast with Drew Blazsik
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Drew Blazsik to dive into the evolving world of financial modeling in academia. Drew brings a fresh perspective on how students can better grasp complex concepts using structured, interactive learning. The conversation touches on practical teaching methods, the common pitfalls students face, and why blending creativi
The Financial Failures in Startups for Founders to Fix Bad Data and Build Profit with Alyona Mysko
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Alyona Mysko shares her journey from a PwC auditor to a fintech founder creating FuelFinance, a no-code financial planning tool tailored for startups and small businesses. She discusses common financial modeling challenges faced by first-time founders, the complexities of the manufacturing and fashion industries, and the importance of simplifying fina
How To Simplify Complex Financial Models And Save Time with Scott Powell
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Scott Powell, co-founder and board member of the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI), to discuss the principles and pitfalls of financial modeling. The conversation centers around how overcomplication, legacy models, and misused functions can undermine even the most polished models, and how thoughtful planning, stakeho
How Financial Modeling Errors in Real Estate and Biotech Cost Analysts Millions with Narek Grigorian
In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst talks with Narek Grigorian, a seasoned financial modeler and investment professional with deep experience across real estate, energy, and biotech sectors. Narek shares candid stories about the worst financial model he ever worked on, one that looked polished but was fundamentally flawed, missing key components like taxes, depreciat
A Finance Horror Story: The Currency Conversion Catastrophe with Lauren Pearl
In this special episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by CFO and startup finance educator Lauren Pearl for a storytelling session that’s equal parts funny and terrifying. They walk through “The Currency Catastrophe,” a true finance horror story about a global company, a junior analyst, and a massive mistake involving currency conversions. As the story unfolds, Paul a
Why Most Financial Models Fail for FP&A Pros to Build Business-Aligned Models with Maria Zlobina
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Maria Zlobina, a finance professional with over a decade of experience in Big Four audit, FP&A, and business partnering roles across the US, Australia, and Russia. The conversation explores the importance of understanding the purpose behind financial models, the challenges of inheriting others’ models, and the value of
How FMI and Ian Schnoor Are Helping Financial Professionals Build Better Models Around the Globe
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Ian Schnoor, Executive Director of the Financial Modeling Institute. The conversation focuses on the growing role of financial modeling in uncertain markets, the expanding reach of FMI, and the importance of structure, clarity, and accreditation in building better business decisions. Ian shares practical insights from his
How Startup Founders Can Build Investor Ready Models to Win VC Trust with Arta Ramaj
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Arta Ramaj, co-founder of 360 Finance, for a discussion into the real-world challenges and nuances of financial modeling. Arta shares her journey from a geography degree to a thriving career in finance and entrepreneurship. Together, they explore the art and science of building robust financial models, the entrepreneurial
Litigation Risk Modeling for Finance Professionals with David Perla
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes David Perla, Vice Chair of Burford Capital and a pioneering voice in the legal finance industry. David discusses how financial modeling plays a central role in evaluating and funding high-stakes litigation, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how his team monetizes legal risk with structured financi
The Real Cost of Trump’s Tariffs for Pricing Teams with Karan Sood
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