Financial Modeler's Corner

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, stakeholder consideration, and service-oriented teaching can significantly enhance modeling effectiveness.

Scott Powell brings over 25 years of global experience in corporate finance education and financial modeling. He is a founding member of the Corporate Finance Institute, where he has led the creation of impactful learning tools and courses. Based in Vancouver, Canada, Scott has worked with major financial institutions worldwide and is deeply passionate about practical finance education and the power of financial literacy to transform lives.

Expect to Learn:

• Why financial models often fail and how to avoid those pitfalls.
• The importance of balancing technical precision with stakeholder usability.
• How teaching and empathy enhance modeling skills.
• Key Excel techniques and when to avoid overengineering.
• Scott’s insights into using AI and advanced Excel tools to stay current.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Every time you're in Excel, try to learn just one new thing. In a year, you're going to have learned a ton." - Scott Powell
• "If you open your model three days later and can’t understand what you did, then you made it too complex." - Scott Powell
• "Don’t start building your model until you understand the end goal and the user’s needs." - Scott Powell

Scott’s thoughtful and service-driven approach makes this episode a must-listen for anyone in the world of financial modeling. His real-world stories, practical Excel strategies, and emphasis on simplicity offer powerful insights. Whether you’re building your first model or refining your 100th, Scott’s advice will help you level up. A valuable guide for modelers who want to build with purpose and clarity.

Follow Scott :

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-powell-cpa-fca-fmva-84baa71/overlay/photo/
• Website - corporatefinanceinstitute.com
• Company - learningstrategiesgroup.com

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.theFP&A ndaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/theFP&A ndaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@theFP&A ndaguy

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:

[01:14] - Welcome and Guest Intro

[03:00] - Model Horror Story

[10:09] - Founding CFI

[14:13] - Memorable Teaching Moments

[16:30] - Starting a Model

[21:28] - Technical vs. Soft Skills

[24:20] - Advice for Trainers

[30:23] - Keeping Up with Excel

[39:44] - Fun with Excel

[41:18] - Rapid Fire Round

[47:21] - Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

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, depreciation, and tenant turnover. He explains how these mistakes can mislead decision-makers and why it’s critical to understand not just the numbers but also the assumptions behind them.

Narek Grigorian currently works at US Capital Global, a global investment banking firm focused on real estate and energy projects, particularly in the lower to middle market space. He holds degrees from Georgetown University and the University of Maryland and brings a passion for financial modeling, innovation, and teaching. Narek believes that while all models are inherently imperfect, they still provide valuable guidance, if built with thoughtful assumptions and continual refinement.

Expect to Learn:

• Why can you never fully trust a model just because it looks polished.
• The critical real estate assumptions that are often overlooked, like tenant turnover and escalating costs.
• How to approach energy modeling with real-time data inputs and complex variables.
• Why biotech models are uniquely challenging due to regulatory and clinical uncertainties.
• Tips and shortcuts Narek uses in Excel to make modeling faster and more reliable.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• ““The toughest part is you have the wardrobe of clothes but have to create the person.” - Narek Grigorian
• “Power Query and Power BI are essential tools for modern financial modelers.” - Narek Grigorian
• “Vacancy rates and market growth assumptions are the most common pitfalls in real estate models.” - Narek Grigorian

Narek’s practical and approachable style makes this episode valuable for anyone involved in financial modeling whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience. His clear advice on key assumptions, Excel techniques, and industry-specific challenges offers useful takeaways to help you create more accurate and effective models.

Follow Narek :

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/narek-grigorian-8869a7254/

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:

[01:12] - Welcome To The Episode

[06:00] - About Narek and US Capital Global

[08:25] - Market Outlook: Inflation, Tariffs, and Stagflation

[10:33] - Narek’s Journey from Armenia to the US

[14:49] - Favorite Industry to Model: Energy

[17:42] - Real Estate Modeling Insights

[25:34] - Common Mistakes in Real Estate Models

[27:19] - Biopharma and Modeling Challenges

[31:42] - Excel Shortcuts and Tools

[38:22] - Power Query, Power BI, and Future of Excel

[44:18] - How to Connect with Narek and Closing

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 and Lauren react, unpack what went wrong, and share their own war stories from years working in finance.

Lauren Pearl is a CFO, startup advisor, and finance educator who specializes in helping early-stage companies build strong financial foundations. With a career that spans startups, venture-backed firms, and a stint in top-tier management consulting, Lauren brings a unique blend of strategic thinking and practical execution. She's also known for her hands-on approach to teaching financial modeling and startup finance through courses, content, and mentorship.

Expect to Learn:

• What happens when you skip currency conversion in a global revenue allocation.
• Why getting the basics right is just as important as the big strategy.
• How one mistake can ripple across budgets, teams, and trust.
• The value of transparency and ownership is when something goes wrong.
• Why it’s crucial to put checks in your models, especially when currencies are involved.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “The finance department was such a dumpster fire, it created cloud cover for the mistake.” - Lauren Pearl
• “Modelers: always put currency checks in your spreadsheets. This stuff happens more than you think.” - Paul Barnhurst
• “Apologize and overcorrect. That’s the CFO playbook when you make a mistake.” - Lauren Pearl

Lauren and Paul share a story every finance professional can relate to, a small mistake that snowballs into something much bigger. Whether you’re new to finance or have been around the block, this episode is a reminder of why fundamentals matter and how a little humor can help you get through even the most stressful moments. If you've ever cringed at your own spreadsheet or scrambled to fix a report before a meeting, you'll feel right at home.

Follow Lauren :

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenepearl/
• Website - https://www.laurenpearlconsulting.com/link-list

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:

[00:00] - Trailer

[01:43] - Welcome & Intro to the Horror Story 

[03:01] - Meet Lauren Pearl

[06:07] - The Story of the Currency Catastrophe

[09:54] - When Meetings Could Just Be Emails

[13:52] - Accounting Chaos and Rising Tension

[16:59] - The Currency Blunder Uncovered

[20:00] - Why the Mistake Mattered So Much

[24:33] - Quiet Fixes and Avoiding Fallout

[27:34] - Paul’s Own Finance Mishap

[30:13] - Lauren’s Pricing Error 

[34:19] - Final Lessons for Modelers 

[35:07] - Closing Thoughts 

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 continual learning in finance. Maria also shares insights into the Advanced Financial Modeler certification, her passion for efficiency, and her experience navigating the world of financial modeling.

Maria, who has a rich background in financial modeling, discusses her journey in the finance industry, her love for continuous learning, and her adventures living in different countries. She offers practical advice for modelers and professionals, including tips on making financial models dynamic, understanding the business context, and utilizing the right tools like Power BI and XLOOKUP. Maria also touches on her passion for languages and learning, sharing how her diverse experiences contribute to her success as a financial modeler.

Expect to Learn:

• Why financial models are critical for decision-making and how to avoid common pitfalls
• The importance of understanding the context and objectives behind a model
• Tips for inheriting and improving existing financial models
• The benefits of continuous learning, both professionally and personally
• Insights on dynamic financial models and best practices for forecasting

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "The magic of financial modeling isn’t in the model itself, but in how it helps guide decisions." - Maria Zlobina
• "It’s not about creating the perfect model, but the model that gives the best insight for decision-makers." - Maria Zlobina
• "The best financial models don’t just answer one question; they provide a range of answers." - Maria Zlobina

In this insightful episode, Maria Zlobina emphasizes the importance of dynamic financial models and understanding the business context behind them. She highlights the value of continuous learning and staying curious to improve as a financial modeler. With practical advice on overcoming challenges in modeling and working with stakeholders, Maria reminds us that great models support better decision-making.

Follow Maria :

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-zlobina-afm-4642576b/

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:

[01:13] - Introduction to the Episode 

[03:52] - Worst Financial Model

[06:37] - The value of continuous learning

[10:24] - That One Defining Moment

[13:09] - From Curiosity to Certification

[17:49] - Starting with the Goal in Modeling

[25:17] - Transparency in Modeling

[31:07] - XLOOKUP Time Saver

[34:24] - Rapid-fire questions

[38:16] - AI and Tools in Modeling

[43:56] - Final thoughts on modeling

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 global work, recent collaborations, and lessons from building multiple businesses.

Ian Schnoor is the Executive Director of the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the only organization offering globally recognized financial modeling accreditation. He founded The Marquee Group, which was acquired by Training the Street in 2023. Ian has trained thousands of professionals in modeling, valuation, and Excel. He teaches at Queen’s University, holds a CFA charter, and began his career in investment banking with Citigroup and BMO. He’s focused on raising the standard of modeling across the world through education and certification.

Expect to Learn:

• Why financial modeling is essential during market volatility
• How FMI is earning global recognition from top firms
• The impact of adding financial modeling to the CFA program
• Insights from FMI’s expansion into China and India
• Three principles for building a successful business
• A creative use of Excel to solve a real-world inventory challenge

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “A good model helps you ask the right ‘what if’ questions, not deliver perfect answers.” - Ian Schnoor
• “The true purpose of a model is to give decision-makers confidence in uncertain times.” - Ian Schnoor
• “Getting the AFM means you’ve shown up, done the work, and proved your skills under pressure.” - Ian Schnoor

Ian Schnoor shared powerful insights on the role of modeling in today’s uncertain world.

He emphasized clarity, structure, and the value of accreditation in building trust and better decisions. His global work is helping elevate modeling into a true professional discipline.

A strong reminder that great models lead to great leadership.

Follow Ian Schnoor:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/?originalSubdomain=ca

Website - https://fminstitute.com/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   

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

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 

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:

[01:27] - Welcome back to the Episode

[04:04] - Financial modeling during market volatility

[08:01] - Updates from FMI and its global growth

[11:47] - Accreditation and why it matters

[16:41] - Partnerships in China and India

[22:02] - Excel World Cup and the global community

[24:22] - CFA Institute collaboration

[28:23] - Global expansion stories

[32:34] - Three principles for business success

[37:23] - Real-life Excel project: Baby blanket logistics

[42:48] - Rapid-fire: tools and trends in modeling

[47:37] - Final advice for modelers

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 mindset, and the evolving role of finance as a strategic business partner.

Arta Ramaj is the co-founder of 360 Finance, a boutique consultancy specializing in financial modeling, FP&A, and finance system implementations for private equity and venture-backed companies. With a background in private equity and a passion for bridging financial data with strategic execution, Arta brings a unique entrepreneurial perspective to the finance world. She’s dedicated to creating investor-ready financial solutions and scaling businesses through dynamic, data-driven insights.

Expect to Learn:

• How Arta transitioned from studying geography to founding a financial consulting firm.
• The critical importance of structure and design in financial modeling.
• Key strategies for building "investor-ready" financial models.
• The role of soft skills and storytelling in becoming a great finance business partner.
• Why simplifying assumptions and focusing on key metrics are essential for early-stage modeling success.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “If you're scaling and your finance function isn't solid, you're really scaling on shaky foundations." - Arta Ramaj
• ”Credibility and clarity are the north stars for building investor-ready financial models." - Arta Ramaj
• “Modeling for a startup is often more about flexibility and storytelling than creating a perfect spreadsheet." - Arta Ramaj

Arta Ramaj gave us a fascinating look into the world of financial modeling for startups and private equity-backed businesses, showing how structure, clarity, and strategic insight shape high-impact financial decision-making. Her experiences revealed how finance principles, business partnering skills, and storytelling all intersect to build trust with investors and stakeholders. From building investor-ready models to navigating the entrepreneurial journey, this episode showcased the critical role financial modelers play in driving growth, strategic planning, and value creation.

Follow Arta:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/artaramaj/
• Website - https://www.three6ixtyfinance.com

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 

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: 

[01:04] - Welcome to the Episode

[03:21] - Horror Financial Model Story

[07:02] - From Geography to Finance

[11:33] - Love for FP&A and Business

[14:26] - Starting 360 Finance

[17:46] - Why Finance Gets Overlooked

[23:32] - Building Investor-Ready Models

[29:27] - The Financial Modeler as a Therapist

[35:14] - Fun with Excel and Wedding Modeling

[38:20] - Career Advice and Final Tips

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 financial strategies. From managing long litigation timelines to leveraging Monte Carlo simulations and AI tools, David shares how Burford builds sophisticated models to guide investment decisions and mitigate risk.

David Perla has an extraordinary background at the intersection of law, entrepreneurship, and finance. He’s a former president of Bloomberg Law, co-founder of legal outsourcing pioneer Pangea3 (acquired by Thomson Reuters), and was named a top 50 innovator by The American Lawyer. At Burford Capital, David is helping reshape how the legal world accesses and deploys capital.

Expect to Learn:

• What legal finance actually is and how it works
• How Burford structures deals and evaluates legal risk
• The modeling techniques used to forecast legal outcomes
• Why Monte Carlo simulations are central to their underwriting process
• How AI is used (and misused) in legal finance

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Behavior that’s irrational but predictable? We can model that. Idiosyncratic behavior? We avoid it.” - David Perla
• Modeling helps us decide not only how to price a deal, but how to structure incentives.” - David Perla
• Everything we do depends on modeling.” - David Perla

David Perla gave us a fascinating look into the world of legal finance and how modeling plays a critical role in managing complex litigation risk. His knowledge revealed how finance principles, AI tools, and human judgment all intersect in this unique investment space. From non-recourse funding to Monte Carlo simulations, this episode showcased the depth of modeling required in high-stakes legal decision-making.

Follow Dave:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidperla/
• Website - https://www.burfordcapital.com/

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 

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: 

[01:12] - Welcome to the episode

[03:37] - Defining Legal Finance

[04:53] - Typical Legal Finance Timeline

[07:56] - Structuring Deals with Non-Recourse Funding

[11:17] - Modeling Risk with Monte Carlo Simulations

[16:32] - High-Stakes Legal Deal Sizes

[21:34] - Predictable vs. Rational Behavior in Modeling

[26:02] - Data Transparency in Insurance vs. Legal Finance

[32:31] - Tools of the Trade: Excel, Python & More

[39:44] - Future of Excel, AI, and Model Confidence

[41:32] - Strategic Decision-Making and Wrap-Up

In this special episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Karan Sood, a global pricing expert with over a decade of experience in revenue management and pricing strategies. Karan shares his knowledge on the impact of tariffs on global trade and pricing models. He talks about the complexities of tariffs, offering advice on how businesses can effectively manage the financial implications and adapt their pricing strategies during these uncertain times. Karan discusses the importance of collaboration across departments and creating flexible models that can quickly adjust to changing market conditions.

Karan Sood is a global pricing expert and the Director of Sales Operations with a wealth of experience overseeing revenue management for over $6 billion across a wide range of industries. He is passionate about using pricing as a powerful tool to drive profitability and improve business performance. Karan has worked across industries including automotive, digital marketing, consumer goods, and more, developing pricing strategies that create real business value.

Expect to Learn:

• How tariffs impact different industries and pricing strategies.
• Why a one-size-fits-all approach to tariffs is flawed and the importance of tailored strategies.
• The role of cross-functional collaboration in managing tariff impacts.
• How to create flexible pricing models that can quickly adjust to shifting market conditions.
• The importance of transparency with customers when adjusting prices due to tariffs.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Every industry is different; you can’t use the same assumptions for all goods under tariffs." - Karan Sood
• "Stay calm, don’t make decisions too quickly. Information is constantly changing." - Karan Sood
• "The key to managing tariffs is creating a flexible pricing model that can adapt quickly to new developments." - Karan Sood

Karan Sood shared meaningful strategies for managing the complexities of tariffs in today’s global trade environment. His advice to stay calm, work collaboratively, and prioritize flexibility in pricing models is invaluable for finance professionals looking to navigate the challenges posed by tariffs. By emphasizing the importance of cross-departmental communication and transparency with customers, Karan offers actionable steps that can help businesses succeed in a volatile market.

Follow Karan:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/soodkaran/?originalSubdomain=ca

Website - https://substack.com/@karansood

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   

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

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 

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: 

[02:08] - Introduction of Episode

[03:05] - Karan’s Journey into Pricing

[06:45] - The Global Impact of Tariffs

[12:05] - Why One-Size-Fits-All Doesn’t Work

[16:00] - Managing the Impact of Tariffs

[20:04] - Building Flexible Pricing Models

[23:09] - Transparency with Consumers

[28:46] - Short-Term vs. Long-Term Strategy

[34:34] - Cross-Department Collaboration

[39:06] - Book recommended by Karan

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Carl Olson, a seasoned finance leader with over two decades of experience in FP&A, consulting, and startup finance. Carl discusses the nuances of financial modeling in both startups and large companies, sharing war stories, practical frameworks, and the lessons learned from building models that drive real business decisions. Whether it's simplifying startup forecasts or navigating layers of corporate planning, Carl emphasizes the importance of context, communication, and staying aligned with business partners.

Carl Olson is a finance consultant and strategic advisor with more than 20 years of experience in FP&A, startup modeling, and enterprise finance. His background includes roles at Jamba Juice, Yelp, Unity, and several startups. Carl specializes in building operating and strategic models, guiding fundraising efforts, and helping businesses link financial modeling to real-world execution.

Expect to Learn:

• How financial models differ for startups vs. large companies
• Why listening to business partners is essential for model effectiveness
• How to test assumptions when historical data is limited
• The danger of over-automation in modeling
• What makes a model usable vs. impressive

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “If your sales model shows unrealistic rep productivity, that’s a red flag.” - Carl Olson
• “Meet your business partners where they are, not where you want them to be.” - Carl Olson
• “Use industry benchmarks, but know your secret sauce.” - Carl Olson

Carl Olson shared honest and practical insights from years of building financial models across startups and large companies. He reminded us that the real value of a model comes from how well it supports decision-making and helps the team move forward. His approach to keeping things simple, clear, and business-focused is something every finance professional can learn from.

Follow Carl:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/olsoncarl/

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376  

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: 

[01:12] - Introduction of Episode

[02:02] - Carl’s Worst Modeling Experience

[06:43] - Rebuilding a Model from Scratch

[10:36] - Startup vs. Corporate Modeling

[12:57] - Big Data to Startup Forecasting

[15:09] - When Mistakes Go Unnoticed

[22:42] - Finding Gaps Through Modeling

[29:41] - Using Excel for Personal Life

[30:47] - Carl’s Favorite Excel Shortcuts

[33:32] - Rapid Fire: Tools, Preferences, and Advice

[36:24] - Avoiding the VBA Trap and Growing in Your Career

[40:38] - Carl’s Closing Advice for Financial Modelers

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Dave Hallwood, a finance director and certified financial modeler, for a practical and candid conversation about real-world modeling in the retail industry. From managing day-to-day operations in a fast-growing fashion retail group to navigating insolvency and restructuring, Dave shares the hard-earned lessons that have shaped his approach to modeling, decision-making, and leadership. 

Dave Hallwood is the Finance Director of a group of independent fashion retailers in the UK. After spending years in retail and hospitality management, Dave transitioned into finance in his 30s, becoming a fellow of ACCA and earning his Certified Financial Modeler (CFM) designation from the Financial Modeling Institute. With a passion for practical financial modeling, Dave has built and managed models for nearly every scenario a small retailer can face, from budgeting and forecasting to store openings, closings, and insolvency planning.

Expect to Learn:

• How to model retail cash flow when weather drives sales
• The importance of simplicity and storytelling in financial models
• What it’s like to manage an insolvency and restructure a business
• Why Dave believes gut instinct still plays a big role in decision-making
• How Dave uses modeling to support store openings, closures, and growth
• Practical advice for switching into a finance career later in life

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Financial models help guide the business, but people and relationships still make it work."
• "The best decision is often a balance between what the model says and what feels right."
• "No matter how great the numbers look, if your gut says no, listen."

Dave Hallwood shares what it’s really like to model for a retail business. From managing cash flow swings to making tough calls during insolvency, he brings a grounded, real-world perspective. Dave reminds us that models should support decisions, not replace them. It’s a must-listen for anyone juggling numbers and navigating uncertainty.

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In today’s episode:

[01:31] - Welcome to the episode

[03:45] - Inheriting a messy Excel model

[06:17] - Why Dave switched careers in his 30s

[10:13] - Life as a finance lead in retail

[14:16] - Forecasting cash flow in a seasonal business

[18:54] - How to model each store differently

[26:58] - Lessons from an insolvency and business rescue

[32:59] - Why Dave supports the FMI community

[40:01] - Horizontal or Vertical Modeling Preferences

[42:23] - Gut vs. model: what really drives decisions

[44:36] - Closing Reflections with Dave