Financial Modeler's Corner

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 importance of getting the right people involved in the process. Sarah and Paul also dive into how finance teams can shift from reactive number-crunchers to proactive business partners that bring clarity and confidence to decision-making.

Sarah Schlott is a strategic finance leader with over 18 years of experience guiding companies through growth, M&A, and operational change. She’s worked across corporate finance, forecasting, budgeting, and reporting infrastructure. Sarah is the founder of The Schlott Company, where she helps founders bring order to financial chaos. Her approach blends classic FP&A with modern tools and a deep understanding of real-world business dynamics. She believes finance should bring clarity, not confusion.

Expect to Learn

• Why overly complex models usually create more confusion than insight
• What it means to be “battle-tested” as a finance leader
• How to build models that reflect business reality, not just spreadsheets
• What to do when the data is unreliable or inconsistent
• Why involving department heads early leads to better models and better outcomes

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "When you’re constantly fighting about the numbers, you’re not ready to present the model." - Sarah Schlott
• "If the people who own the numbers don’t see themselves in the model, you should probably just chuck it." - Sarah Schlott
• "Stop being the cop. Be the radio tower that keeps everything aligned."  Sarah Schlott

Follow Sarah:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahschlott/

Website - http://www.sarahgschlott.com/

Company - https://theschlottco.com/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com  

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner:  

LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[01:53] - Introduction to Sarah Schlott

[03:14] - Worst Model Horror Story

[07:48] - Founding The Schlott Company

[10:19] - Experience Needed to Go Fractional

[14:53] - Building Finance That Brings Calm, Not Confusion

[17:28] - How to Work with Messy Data

[20:58] - Pressure Testing Financial Models

[28:04] - Finance as a Radio Tower, Not a Traffic Cop

[39:39] - Rapid-Fire: Excel Tools and Modeling Styles

[43:37] - Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

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 than ever before. Nico also discusses his work at Fundamental Research Labs, where they aim to build digital humans using AI, and the development of Shortcut, which aims to streamline the way we use Excel for financial modeling tasks.

Nico Christie is the co-founder of Fundamental Research Labs and the CEO of Shortcut, a cutting-edge AI tool designed to supercharge Excel. Nico’s diverse background spans professional athletics, corporate finance, and AI research. His work at Fundamental Research Labs focuses on building AI that mimics human-like qualities, such as emotional experiences and consciousness. Nico has a passion for both technology and the real-world applications of AI in tools like Excel, making complex tasks faster and more intuitive.

Expect to Learn

• How Shortcut is revolutionizing Excel for financial modeling with AI.
• The process behind building digital humans at Fundamental Research Labs.
• Nico’s journey from professional dunker to AI innovator.
• How AI tools like Shortcut are transforming the financial modeling landscape.
• Insights on the future of AI in Excel and the response from companies like Microsoft.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "I just think Excel is the most beautiful design software ever created by humans." - Nico Christie
• "The goal of the company is to build digital humans, giving AI all of the fundamental human qualities, not just intelligence." - Nico Christie
• "People who were initially afraid of AI are no longer afraid once they see how it can be used in software engineering." - Nico Christie

Follow Nico:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicochristie/
• Twitter - https://x.com/nicochristie

Follow Paul:

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com  
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner:  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[02:15] - Introduction to Nico Christie

[02:38] - Worst Model Horror Story

[06:32] - Upcoming Projects and Exciting Roadblocks

[09:14] - The Journey to Dunking

[17:21] - The Power of Excel's Top Buttons

[20:17] - Reviewing vs. Starting from Scratch

[21:38] - Struggles with Formatting in Model Reviews

[32:35] - The Impact of AI Tools on the Profession

[37:26] - Favorite Excel Shortcut

[39:54] - Financial Models as Decision-Making Tools

[42:34] - Wrapping Up

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 infrastructure deals, and teaching the next generation of finance professionals. From navigating the challenges of project finance to celebrating those satisfying “balance sheet balances” moments in the classroom, Patrick offers a grounded, practical perspective on how modeling works beyond the spreadsheet.

Patrick is the President of Sharklets, a training company specializing in CFA, FRM, and CAIA prep, and a Senior Professor at IÉSEG School of Management. With a background in structured finance, infrastructure projects, and model design, he bridges academic rigor with practical experience. He has helped train thousands of finance professionals across the globe and continues to lead CFM study groups. Patrick’s love for teaching is matched by his real-world expertise, having worked on major infrastructure deals, including France’s national stadium.

Expect to Learn

• Why financial models should be treated as decision-making tools, not just math.
• What makes project finance models more complex than corporate ones.
• The real-world impact of financial models, from runways to stadiums.
• How teaching has shaped Patrick’s understanding of modeling.
• Why lifelong curiosity is the key to staying relevant in finance.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “A financial model is a decision tool that incorporates all the information necessary to form your own judgment." - Patrick Daguet
• "I fell into teaching when people told me I had a talent for explaining the complex clearly." - Patrick Daguet
• "You are sentenced to lifelong learning when you choose a career in finance." - Patrick Daguet

Follow Patrick:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickdaguet/
• Email - [email protected]

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[01:59] - Guest Intro: Patrick’s Background

[03:34] - Modeling Horror Story

[07:28] - Defining a Financial Model

[08:46] - Lifelong Learning & Certifications

[11:58] - Passion for Project Finance

[14:39] - Favorite Project: Stade de France

[17:58] - Challenges in Project Finance Models

[24:59] - Transition to Teaching

[31:30] - CFM Study Groups & Community

[37:20] - Excel Tools & Rapid Fire Round

[45:12] - Closing Advice & Takeaways

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 and insight, with Finance Bro offering his unconventional wisdom about financial modeling, presenting with confidence, and making your work stand out in the finance world.

Your Average Finance Bro, is a renowned figure in the financial modeling world. He has built a reputation not just for his financial modeling skills but also for his humorous take on the profession. He's a self-proclaimed founder of Goldman Sachs, inventor of the discounted cash flow model, and someone who has been involved in some of the most memorable (and fictional) moments in finance history. Finance Bro brings a fun and unconventional approach to the world of finance, often blending humor with expert insights.

Expect to Learn

• The importance of memorability in financial modeling and how it can impact your career.
• Why Excel continues to dominate financial modeling and how Finance Bro contributed to its popularity.
• The lighter side of financial modeling, including hilarious pranks and Excel jokes.
• How to present financial models with confidence, even if the numbers are questionable.
• The essential skills and mindset needed for financial modelers to stand out, especially in high-pressure situations.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Memorability is extremely important in financial modeling. If you screw up, people will remember that forever." - Your Average Finance Bro
• "The ability to present a model is more important than the model itself." - Your Average Finance Bro
• "If you can't teach someone how to build a model, you’re not teaching them anything at all." - Your Average Finance Bro

Follow Finance Bro :

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/your-average-finance-bro/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/youraveragefinancebro/?hl=en
• Website - linktr.ee/financebro
• YouTube - youtube.com/@youraveragefinancebro

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[02:57] - Guest's Background

[04:33] - Becoming a Strong Financial Modeler

[06:27] - Defining Financial Modeling

[09:20] - What to Do When Your Model Breaks

[14:14] - Why Excel Dominates Over Google Sheets

[17:46] - Circular References vs. Leg Day

[19:28] - Favorite Code Words

[24:40] - Favorite Industry to Model

[26:07] - Rapid Fire Section

[28:38] - Favorite Lookup Function

[29:51] - Closing Thoughts

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, offering unique insights into the intersection of academia, practical modeling, and credentialing.

Dr. Stephen is a finance professor at UNC Wilmington and former Managing Director at the CFA Institute. He has over 30 years of experience in academia and industry, has authored award-winning research, and co-wrote Strategic Value Investing, featured on Warren Buffett’s reading list. His work bridges theory and practice in finance education. Dr. Horan is also a sought-after speaker and serves on editorial boards for leading finance journals.

Expect to Learn

• What makes a model readable and useful and why fundamentals matter.
• How to teach financial modeling in a way that’s active and practical.
• The difference between book knowledge and real-world application in finance.
• Insights into CFA Institute’s evolution toward practical skills and global relevance.
• The mindset and skills students need to transition from learning to doing.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Curiosity is the skill I had to learn and it’s the one that’s helped me most in my career." - Stephen Horan
• "Give someone the experience of building a model and solving problems. That’s the real education." - Stephen Horan
• "The ability to explain how you built a model is more powerful in an interview than listing courses on a résumé."  Stephen Horan

Follow Stephen:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenhoranphd/
• Twitter - http://twitter.com/StephenHoranCFA

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[02:07] - Guest Introduction

[04:19] - Modeling Horror Story

[10:41] - Bridging Theory and Practice

[13:31] - Power of Teaching

[17:55] - Learning by Modeling

[26:23] - CFA Institute Insights

[35:07] - Favorite Excel Shortcut

[39:36] - Rapid Fire Round

[46:02] - Final Thoughts and Contact

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 challenges of teaching complex topics in an accessible way, and explores the future of financial education and tools.

Janice is a systems entrepreneur and finance educator with over 30 years of experience. She has worked with both for-profit and nonprofit ventures, focusing on democratic access to capital and economic justice. Janice is also the author of Moving Mountains and teaches finance at Bard’s MBA in Sustainability program. Michael transitioned from the fitness industry into sustainable finance. With an MBA in Impact Finance from Bard, he co-developed and co-taught a financial modeling course that incorporates ESG data and sustainability into traditional financial analysis. Michael is passionate about inclusive, community-driven investment strategies and financial education.

Expect to Learn

• What makes a financial model “fit for purpose”, and why complexity isn’t always better.
• How financial modeling can support sustainability and social impact.
• Tips for teaching finance to non-finance students and building curriculum from the ground up.
• The importance of scenario and sensitivity analysis in forecasting.
• Practical insights on bridging theory and hands-on financial modeling in academia.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Finance shouldn't feel mystical or exclusive, our goal is to make it approachable and relevant." - Janice Shade
• "As a former trainer, I saw how performance metrics drove change. Now I see capital can do the same, if used with purpose." - Michael Tapia
• "Forecasting is hard, and no forecast is ever right. We're just trying to make it less wrong." - Janice Shade

Follow Janice:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/janice-shade/
• Website - https://innovatecapital.org/team

Follow Michael:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-tapia-

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode: 

[02:29] - Introduction of Janice and Michael

[07:20] - Worst Financial Model

[14:04] - Defining a Financial Model

[15:18] - Story Behind the MBA Modeling Course

[22:43] - Janice’s Key Takeaways from First Cohort

[29:34] - Michael’s Course and Podcast Episodes

[42:45] - Favourite Shortcut in Excel

[43:47] - Creative Excel Uses

[47:32] - Rapid Fire Section

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 preparing for the Chartered Financial Modeler (CFM) certification.

Carolina is a financial modeling and FP&A specialist with over 20 years of experience. She holds the Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) certification from the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI) and is working toward the Elite Certified Financial Modeler (CFM) credential. Carolina is passionate about teaching financial modeling and helping professionals use financial models to make better strategic decisions. Her workshops focus on best practices, scenario analysis, and providing businesses with the tools needed to navigate financial challenges.

Expect to Learn

• The definition of a financial model and how to differentiate it from other types of business models.
• Tips for studying for the AFM and CFM certifications, including managing time effectively and balancing models as you work.
• Carolina’s experience preparing for the AFM and how to build financial models quickly under pressure.
• The importance of practice in financial modeling and how to improve speed and efficiency.
• The differences between the AFM and CFM certifications and why both are valuable for financial modelers.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Even if I don’t pass the first time, I will have already succeeded by learning new techniques and improving my skills." - Carolina Lago
• "You need to be resourceful and think quickly when preparing for the CFM. It’s about adapting to complexity in multiple areas." - Carolina Lago
• "A financial model is anything that has inputs, calculations, and outputs, but at the same time answers a business question." - Carolina Lago

Follow Carolina:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-carolinalago?originalSubdomain=ch
• Website - carolinalago.com
• Course Tactic On-Demand: https://tacticfinancial.com/financial-model-for-you/
• newsletter:  https://pages.tacticfinancial.com/thetacticalroom

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode: 

[08:03] - What is a Financial Model?

[12:52] - Fun Use of Excel in Personal Life

[17:06] - Learning About FMI

[24:41] - Toughest Area in AFM Preparation

[28:19] - Advice for AFM Exam

[38:07] - CFM Difficulty and Value

[42:36] - Broken Spreadsheet Joke

[44:56] - Wrapping Up the Episode

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, and how new technologies like Power Query and AI are shaping the future of modeling.

Jon is the founder of Excel Campus, a Microsoft MVP, and an expert in helping Excel users simplify and automate their workflows. With over 600,000 YouTube subscribers, Jon is passionate about making Excel both fun and efficient. He’s also a regular commentator for Excel Esports competitions, where Excel professionals compete to solve complex modeling challenges in real time. Jon’s mission is to help people leverage Excel to boost productivity and creativity, making financial modeling more accessible and enjoyable.

Expect to Learn

• The importance of building financial models that are easy for others to understand and use.
• Jon's take on the role of Excel Esports in advancing modeling skills and fostering creativity.
• How Power Query can save you hours of data processing time in Excel.
• Why financial modelers should focus on simplicity and automation rather than over-complicating their models.
• Insights into the future of financial modeling with the integration of Python and AI tools.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “AI is great at generating code, but it’s the human creativity that still leads the way.” - Jon Acampora
• “As an Excel professional, it's important to make models that others can easily work with, even if they don't have the same technical skills you do.” - Jon Acampora
• “If you want to be great at Excel, you have to understand that learning never stops. There’s always something new to discover.” - Jon Acampora

Follow Jon:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonacampora/
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/ExcelCampus
• Website - https://www.excelcampus.com/

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode: 

[03:45] - Horror Story

[08:50] - Defining Financial Models

[11:55] - From Accounting to Excel Business

[18:42] - Competing in Excel Esports

[21:27] - What Jon Enjoys About Announcing

[27:36] - Advice for Aspiring Excel Competitors

[37:43] - Memorable Teaching Moment

[42:43] - Favourite Excel Shortcut

[45:12] - Rapid Fire Section

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 creativity with structure is key to mastering the three-statement model.

Drew Blazsik is an assistant professor at Adrian College, where he teaches finance and economics. With over a decade of teaching experience at institutions like the University of Toledo and Lourdes University, Drew has a passion for connecting academic finance theory with real-world applications. He is also the creator of the Structured Immediate Method (SIM), an innovative teaching tool designed to help students master financial modeling skills in a dynamic and engaging way. Drew hosts the Faith and Finance Podcast and runs the Logos and Markets YouTube channel, where he explores financial modeling, economic theory, and more.

Expect to Learn

• Common mistakes students make in financial modeling and how to avoid them.
• How Drew’s Structured Immediate Method (SIM) enhances student learning.
• Why learning Python is crucial for modern financial modelers.
• The impact of gamification and interactive learning on mastering financial concepts.
• Drew's take on the future of financial modeling in the age of AI.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Once you understand how to create a financial model, it all clicks and makes finance come together.” - Drew Blazsik
• “AI is awesome for creativity, but it starts with you, the human, being creative.” - Drew Blazsik
• “The SIM method helps students get instant feedback, which improves their learning and engagement.” -Drew Blazsik

Follow Drew:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewblazsik/
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/drewblazsik

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode: 

[04:15] - Student Modeling Mistakes

[09:07] - Defining Financial Models

[12:08] - Teaching Finance vs. Economics

[18:21] - Course Feedback

[36:27] - Unique Excel Model

[39:04] - Excel Shortcuts

[42:44] - Financial Models in Decision Making

[45:40] - Importance of Python

[50:39] - Last Question

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 financial models for better decision-making. Alyona emphasizes the power of effective communication and scenario planning, helping entrepreneurs and modelers make sense of numbers to drive business success.

Alyona Mysko is the Founder and CEO of FuelFinance, a fintech startup delivering no-code financial planning tools designed specifically for startups and small businesses. With a professional background starting as an auditor at PwC, Alyona transitioned into financial analysis and fractional CFO roles before launching her own company. She brings deep expertise in financial modeling and a passion for simplifying complex financial data to empower founders and entrepreneurs. 

Expect to Learn

• How Alyona’s audit background influenced the creation of a finance platform for startups
• Why first-time founders struggle with financial modeling and how second-time founders differ
• The complexity behind manufacturing and fashion business models and modeling nuances
• The importance of simplified dashboards focusing on key metrics for decision-making
• Why communication and storytelling in financial modeling is essential for impact

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Finance is just like fuel for a business. If you understand your numbers, you can go fast.” - Alyona Mysko
• First-time founders don’t know what they don’t know. Second-time founders know to start with the financial model.” - Alyona Mysko
• “Communication is 50% of your success as a financial modeler.” - Alyona Mysko

Follow Alyona :

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyona-mysko/
• Website - https://fuelfinance.me/

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguy

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit https://bit.ly/497oAqW and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode: 

[02:31] - The Story Behind FuelFinance

[06:00] - Aylona’s Background

[11:03] - Industry-Specific Modeling Challenges

[18:14] - Cross-Functional Realization

[23:57] - Revenue vs. Cash Flow Realities

[28:14] - Balancing Model Simplicity

[35:11] - Key Career Lesson

[39:41] - Rapid Fire Section