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By Paul Barnhurst AKA The FP&A Guy
4.9
99 ratings
The podcast currently has 53 episodes available.
In this insightful episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes financial modeling expert Rachit Jain. They delve into the nuances of financial modeling, exploring the art of building accurate, reliable models and the importance of critical thinking and lifelong learning in finance. Rachit shares real-world horror stories from his early career, reflects on the challenges of predictive modeling, and emphasizes the human elements that make models truly effective.
Rachit Jain is a seasoned financial modeler with extensive experience in finance, auditing, and quantitative modeling. Having worked with firms like Hewlett Packard and Deloitte, Rachit brings a wealth of knowledge on creating models that inform decision-making and avoid critical pitfalls. His expertise spans FP&A, data science, and quantitative finance, making him an authority on building dynamic, real-world financial models.
Expect to Learn:
Here are a few quotes from Rachit Jain:
In this episode, Rachit Jain highlights financial modeling as both an art and science, emphasizing the importance of accuracy, clarity, and storytelling. Rachit’s approach shows that great financial modeling goes beyond numbers; it requires curiosity, critical thinking, and a balance between simplicity and sophistication.
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Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.
Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.
In today’s episode:
[01:15] - Introduction to the Episode and Guest
[05:26] - Rachit’s Background and Career Path
[09:00] - Advice for Transitioning to Financial Modeling
[11:01] - Lifelong Learning in Finance
[13:17] - Financial Modeling as a Way of Thinking
[18:15] - Unique Applications of Financial Modeling
[22:23] - Building Models for Decision Making Process
[26:57] - The Intersection of Data Science and Financial Modeling
[33:40] - Rapid-Fire Financial Modeling Preferences
[38:53] - Closing Advice and Wrap Up
In this episode, Paul Barnhurst, host of Financial Modeler’s Corner, is joined by Carl Seidman, an experienced financial consultant and financial modeling expert. Together, they explore the intricacies of financial modeling, discuss the art and strategy of dynamic cash flow modeling, and touch on the unique challenges and lessons Carl has gathered from his years in turnaround consulting. They also discuss the broader skills and mindset shifts required for modelers who aim to excel in the complex field of financial analysis and corporate finance.
Carl Seidman is the founder of Seidman Financial and a recognized expert in financial planning, forecasting, and modeling. With experience in turnaround consulting and as a fractional CFO, Carl has worked extensively with underperforming companies and complex restructuring cases. He brings an in-depth understanding of the strategic nuances in financial modeling and cash flow management, which he shares in this episode.
Key takeaways from this week's episode include:
Here are a few quotes from Carl Seidman:
In this insightful episode, Carl Seidman leaves listeners with practical advice and a fresh perspective on financial modeling’s role in modern business. He highlights the value of flexibility, clear communication, and a long-term mindset, particularly in the complex terrain of turnaround consulting.
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Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.
Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.
In today’s episode:
[01:12] – Introduction to the episode and guest
[05:44] – Key Lessons in Modeling and Long-Term Strategy
[10:36] – From PwC to Turnaround Consulting
[16:02] – Certified Insolvency and Restructuring Advisor (CIRA)
[20:20] – Diagnosing Cash Flow Issues in Underperforming Companies
[28:52] – Embracing Dynamic Arrays for Efficient Cash Flow Modeling
[32:40] – Modeling Mindset: Curiosity and Continuous Improvement
[37:57] – Rapid-Fire Q&A: Financial Modeling Preferences
[41:59] – Advice for Aspiring Modelers: Practice and Experiment
[43:30] – Closing Remarks and Where to Connect
In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) is joined by guest Mark Proctor. Together, they delve into 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 evolve to meet the demands of modern financial professionals.
Mark Proctor is a seasoned financial professional with a background in accounting and finance, an Excel MVP, and the founder of Excel Off the Grid, a platform dedicated to improving efficiency and effectiveness in Excel. With decades of experience, Mark's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to optimize their use of Excel for financial modeling and beyond. He has helped countless professionals streamline their work through better data structure and automation techniques.
Key takeaways from this week's episode include:
Here are a few quotes from Mark Proctor:
As Excel continues to evolve with powerful features like dynamic arrays and advanced automation, the tools discussed in this episode are essential for anyone looking to keep pace with the future of financial modeling. Mark’s emphasis on mastering the basics and thinking structurally will help you work faster and more effectively.
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Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.
Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.
In today’s episode:
[01:54] - Financial Modeling Horror Stories
[04:55] - Lessons from Bad Models
[06:28] - Mark's Career Journey and Background
[12:59] - Data Analysis vs. Financial Modeling
[19:17] - Excel as a Data Analysis Tool: Key Innovations
[22:55] - Automation in Excel and Practical Tips
[33:59] - The Importance of Mastering Excel Basics
[44:19] - Wrap-Up and Closing Remarks
In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst dives into the evolution of financial modeling with guest Chase Wright. The discussion focuses on modern financial modeling tools and workflows, particularly a new spreadsheet tool called Equals, and how it compares to Excel and Google Sheets. Wright shares his journey from a finance background to working at startups, where he developed innovative methods to streamline financial operations using cutting-edge tools.
Chase Wright is a seasoned finance executive with a decade of experience across startups and tech companies like GitLab, Instabug, and Red Hat. Currently the Head of Finance and Data at Uniqode, Chase has a unique blend of corporate finance, data science, and business management expertise. He’s also an advisor to Cacheflow and a limited partner at FOG Ventures. With an engineering background and deep experience in finance, Chase brings a fresh perspective on the challenges and innovations in financial modeling.
Key takeaways from this week's episode include:
Here are a few quotes from Chase Wright:
In this episode, Chase Wright shares his journey from struggling with complex models in Excel to embracing the automation and connectivity that Equals offers highlights the growing need for more intuitive and efficient financial tools. He emphasizes that the right tools, combined with critical thinking, can not only improve workflows but also provide deeper insights that drive business success.
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Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.
Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.
In today’s episode:
[01:45] – Introduction to Chase Wright and his journey
[02:54] – The nightmare of VBA models and lessons
[04:24] – Educational Path: Finance to Engineering
[07:01] – Equals: The modern spreadsheet tool
[15:13] – How Equals Simplifies Data Integration
[20:02] – Financial modeling: Critical Thinking in Action
[31:03] – Rapid Fire Segment: Excel and Equals
[39:37] – Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this innovative episode, Paul Barnhurst experiments with Google’s AI tool, Notebook LM, and transforms previous guest interviews into an AI-generated episode. He explores the insights and best practices in financial modeling, as shared by veterans Scott Rostan, founder of Training the Street, and Ian Bennett, a PwC Australia leader with extensive experience in managing large modeling teams.
By leveraging AI, this episode explores how technology can recreate meaningful conversations with industry leaders, providing an interactive look at best practices, common pitfalls, and the evolving landscape of financial modeling. Paul explores advanced technical skills and the human elements that are essential to successful financial modeling.
Key takeaways from this week's episode include:
Quotes from the Episode:
In this special AI-driven episode, Paul Barnhurst invites listeners to consider how the field of financial modeling is both grounded in foundational skills and evolving with new technologies. It’s about connecting with clients, asking the right questions, and using your skills to drive better business decisions.
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Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.
In today’s episode:
[01:17] Introduction to the episode
[03:57] Lessons from modeling mistakes
[06:29] Four key pillars of financial modeling
[08:51] Managing large-scale models
[13:40] Excel’s power stack and future enhancements
[15:14] Modeling standards and best practices
[19:38] Excel’s longevity and AI’s role
[22:44] The World of fractional FP&A
[27:38] AI’s place in financial modeling
[33:16] Wrap-up and invitation for feedback
In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst dives deep into the world of Quality of Earnings (QofE) with expert guest Patrick McMillan, a seasoned CFO and transaction advisor. The conversation explores the intricacies of QofE, its importance in financial transactions, and the role it plays in assessing a company's financial health during mergers and acquisitions. Patrick shares real-world examples and insights into how financial professionals can use QofE to make informed decisions.
Patrick McMillan is a fractional CFO and transaction advisor at Amplēo, a Utah-based firm specializing in providing executive support to growing companies. With over two decades of experience in guiding businesses through periods of growth and M&A transactions, Patrick is known for his expertise in Quality of Earnings analysis. He brings a dynamic and passionate approach to finance, blending technical skill with strong storytelling abilities to help businesses navigate complex financial landscapes.
Key takeaways from this week's episode include:
Here are a few quotes from Patrick McMillan:
With actionable advice on financial modeling, transaction strategies, and lessons learned from his personal experiences, Patrick’s insights will resonate with professionals looking to sharpen their financial skills and improve decision-making in dynamic business environments.
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Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.
Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.
In today’s episode:
[01:10] - Introduction to Patrick McMillan
[04:25] - Worst Financial Model Story
[07:30] - Quality of Earnings vs. Audits
[09:30] - Identifying Non-Recurring vs. Operating Items
[13:31] - Patrick’s Journey to Becoming the "QofE Guy"
[17:57] - The technical understanding of QofE
[24:51] - Patrick’s decision for MBA
[29:56] - Importance of soft skills in QofE
[35:20] - Rapid-Fire Financial Modeling Tips
[38:44] - Personal Insights: Mountain Biking and Life Lessons
In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Ruby Liu, Director at KPMG Australia’s Valuation Team, to dive into intricacies of financial modeling. Having led KPMG Australia’s Sydney modeling team and worked as the head of corporate finance in the energy sector, Ruby’s vast experience spans from transactional modeling for infrastructure assets to advising clients on valuation and capital raising. Ruby Liu brings over 16 years of professional expertise in corporate finance, financial modeling, and valuations.
This episode offers practical insights on managing complex financial models, optimizing processes, and the challenges of transitioning models from transactional to operational use. Ruby’s guidance provides a valuable learning opportunity on how to build efficient and user-friendly financial models. Her deep knowledge and hands-on experience make her a key voice in the field of financial modeling.
Key takeaways from this week's episode include:
Here are a few quotes from Ruby Liu:
In this insightful episode, Ruby Liu offers a masterclass in financial modeling. From her candid reflections on the pitfalls of overly complex models to the importance of keeping the end user in mind, Ruby’s practical advice is invaluable for both novice and seasoned modelers alike.
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Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.
Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.
In today’s episode:
[01:13] - Introduction to the episode and guest
[03:01] - Worst financial model and lessons learned
[08:28] - Ruby reflects on her evolving perspective on the industry
[12:47] - Ruby’s leadership experience at KPMG’s Sydney team
[16:47] - Insights into Ruby’s current role in valuations
[22:14] - Different valuation methods; income and market approaches
[25:57] - Converting transactional models into operational ones
[41:16] - Rapid fire questions segment with Ruby
[47:49] - Advice for modelers and contact information
In this special solo episode, host Paul Barnhurst, also known as "The FP&A Guy," reflects on key insights gathered from past episodes of Financial Modeler’s Corner. With over 40 episodes under his belt, Paul dives into recurring rapid-fire questions posed to expert financial modelers worldwide. From circular references to VBA use and Excel's future, this episode offers valuable wisdom on the art and science of financial modeling.
Paul Barnhurst, an accomplished financial modeling professional and host of the podcast, takes center stage. Paul is the founder of “The FP&A Guy” and has earned the prestigious Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) certification from the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI). His wealth of experience and insights makes this solo episode both engaging and informative.
Key takeaways from this week's episode include:
Here are a few quotes from Paul in this episode:
In this special solo episode, Paul Barnhurst takes a moment to reflect on the lessons learned from over 40 episodes of Financial Modeler’s Corner. He shares key takeaways from the rapid-fire questions posed to some of the top financial modelers in the world, offering a wealth of advice on best practices, common pitfalls, and emerging trends in financial modeling. As always, he invites listeners to reach out with feedback, questions, and guest suggestions, reinforcing the show's commitment to fostering a global community of financial modeling enthusiasts.
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Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.
Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.
In today’s episode:
[01:09] - Introduction and background
[03:18] - Circular references in models
[04:55] - VBA in financial models
[06:45] - Dynamic arrays: the future of excel?
[16:50] - Will excel ever die?
[18:16] - AI and financial modeling
[20:31] - Financial models as corporate decision-making tools
[22:26] - Favorite excel shortcuts from top financial modelers
[30:34] - Closing thoughts and invitation to audience
In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Paul Medici, founder and CEO of Medici Financial Modeling. They dive into the art and science of financial modeling, sharing horror stories, insights, and practical tips on how to avoid common pitfalls. The discussion revolves around the importance of simplicity and structure, and how mastering the fundamentals can save time and deliver better results.
Today’s guest is Paul Medici, the Founder and CEO of Medici Financial Modeling. With over a decade of experience, Paul specializes in building bespoke financial models and custom data automation tools for corporate clients across the US, Canada, and Europe. His expertise spans a wide range of industries, including financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, mining, real estate, retail, technology, and even charitable organizations. He holds an MBA from the University of Toronto and a Master’s in Geological Science and Engineering from Queen’s University.
Key takeaways from this week's episode include:
Here are a few quotes from Paul Medici:
From his early career in geology to teaching advanced Excel at top investment banks, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation. He emphasizes the importance of building user-friendly models, practicing regularly, and finding the right balance between complexity and functionality.
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Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.
Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.
In today’s episode:
[01:27] - Introduction to the episode and guest
[03:15] - The worst financial model story and lessons learned.
[07:17] - Career transition from Geology to Finance
[12:40] - Challenges in modeling different industries
[19:22] - Favorite industries and financial models
[22:17] - Bespoke data automation tools
[25:47] - Teaching Excel and financial modeling courses
[34:29] - Advice for FMI Certification
[39:03] - Rapid fire: financial modeling preferences
[44:13] - Final advice and contact information
In this episode of the "Financial Modelers Corner," host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Gilbert Hangartner, a financial modeler with a background in science. The discussion delves into the intricacies of financial modeling, the importance of simplicity in model construction, and the application of Monte Carlo simulations to understand risk. Gilbert shares his insights on how to approach financial modeling by asking the right questions rather than having complex formulas.
Gilbert Hangartner is a seasoned financial modeler who transitioned from a career in science, specializing in chemistry and physics, to financial modeling and risk analysis. His scientific training gives him a unique perspective on financial modeling, treating it as both a creative process and a technical discipline. Gilbert emphasizes the importance of simplicity and clarity in building effective models and is an advocate for using models as tools for communication and strategic decision-making.
Key takeaways from this week's episode include:
Here are a few quotes from Gilbert Hangartner:
In this episode, Gilbert Hangartner offers a fresh perspective on the world of financial modeling and challenges the conventional wisdom that financial models must be complex to be effective. Whether you're a seasoned modeler or just starting out, Gilbert's insights on Monte Carlo simulations provide valuable guidance on how to enhance your modeling skills and approach.
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Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.
Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.
In today’s episode:
[01:16] - Introduction to the episode and the guest, Gilbert Hangartner
[01:57] - The worst financial model horror story shared by Gilbert
[04:42] - Discussion on the importance of simplicity in financial modeling
[06:10] - Gilbert explains his transition from science to financial modeling
[10:11] - Art or Science? The nature of financial modeling
[13:45] - Strategies for asking the right questions when building a model
[17:16] - An overview of Monte Carlo simulations for risk modeling
[28:31] - The advantages of Quantrix over Excel
[44:47] - A contrarian view on the future of Excel in financial modeling
[47:48] - Closing Remarks and Contact Information
The podcast currently has 53 episodes available.
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