Financial Modeler's Corner

In this episode of Future Finance, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper are joined by Geoff Robinson, founder of TheInvestmentAnalyst.com and former Managing Director at UBS. Geoff shares his passion for innovation in finance and technology, diving deep into how AI, digital avatars, and automated agents are reshaping the way we learn, invest, and deliver financial advice.

Geoff Robinson is an investment analyst and former Managing Director at UBS, with years of experience in financial modeling and research. After a successful corporate career, he founded theinvestmentanalyst.com, a platform designed to deliver high quality financial training using AI-driven avatars and cutting edge technology. Geoff is at the forefront of exploring AI’s impact on financial education, advisory services, and market predictions.

Expect to Learn:

• How digital avatars are revolutionizing financial education
• Why traditional institutions struggle with tech adoption
• The power of combining AI agents and personalized content
• How Geoff is building a fully AI-generated financial podcast
• What the future holds for AI in finance, training, and recommendations

In this episode, Geoff Robinson offers a glimpse into the near future of finance where AI-generated avatars, real-time advisory bots, and metadata-driven recommendations shape how professionals learn and interact with data. His message is clear: those who stay closest to the technology frontier will be the first to innovate, adapt, and lead.

Follow Geoff:

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

Website - https://theinvestmentanalyst.com/

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii

Follow Paul:

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

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://bit.ly/4i1Ekjg

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[02:12] - Starting the Platform

[03:30] - Digital Avatars and AI

[05:25] - AI Agents in Action

[07:12] - Personalized AI Experiences

[08:45] - AI-Generated Podcast

[10:53] - Managing AI Risks

[11:38] - Favorite Tech Tools

[13:18] - AI Recommendations

[14:10] - Final Thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Myles Arnott, co-founder of Full Stack Modeller and founder of Clarity Consultancy Services. Myles shares his 25+ year journey in Excel, his philosophy of keeping things simple, and how structured design and tools like Power Query have transformed his approach to modeling. He also opens up about taking the FMI Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) exam and co-building a global modeling community.

Myles Arnott is a CMA-qualified accountant, Excel trainer, and fractional finance director. He leads Clarity Consultancy Services and co-founded Full Stack Modeller, a platform built to provide finance professionals with a full toolkit of modern Excel and modeling skills. Myles blends operational finance experience with teaching, making complex modeling concepts accessible through real-world insights and practice.

Expect to Learn:

• The power of simplicity in model design
• How to effectively prepare for the AFM exam
• Best practices for managing data flow in Excel
• Why Power Query is one of Excel’s most powerful tools
• How Full Stack Modeler is helping professionals level up in finance
• The value of designing with clarity and reviewing with confidence
• Myles’s journey from complex automation to clean, intuitive spreadsheets

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• Spreadsheet risk skyrockets when models are messy and undocumented.”- Myles Arnott
• “If your data flows are poor, your insights will be too.”- Myles Arnott
• “Power Query changed everything for how we manage data in Excel.”- Myles Arnott

In this episode, Myles Arnott shares how clarity, consistency, and structure create better financial models. He emphasizes the importance of design thinking, simplifying complexity, and continuously developing your skills. Whether you're preparing for the AFM or just want to clean up your modeling, Myles’s advice will guide you toward modeling excellence.

Follow Myles:

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

Website - https://www.fullstackmodeller.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:

[01:39] - Episode Introduction

[02:49] - Worst Financial Model Mistakes 

[07:55] - Leadership and AFM

[13:26] - Balancing Under Exam Pressure

[19:17] - Full Stack Origins

[23:01] - MVP Antics and Office Fun

[27:04] - Simplifying Systems and Processes

[31:13] - Power Query Tips

[36:37] - Career Lessons Learned

[46:09] - Advice to Aspiring Modelers

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Emma Chieppor, founder of Excel Dictionary, a social media-driven Excel education platform with over 9 million followers. Emma shares her journey from being an actuary to becoming one of the most influential Excel educators online. She discusses the power of Excel, the challenges of running a business, and how short-form content transformed Excel learning for millions.

Emma Chieppor started her career as an actuary before launching Excel Dictionary, a platform dedicated to providing quick and practical Excel tips. Through social media, Emma has built a massive following by sharing 30-second Excel tutorials. Her expertise has helped professionals worldwide enhance their Excel skills efficiently.

Expect to Learn:

• How Emma transitioned from actuary to Excel influencer
• The challenges of learning Excel while starting a corporate job during COVID
• Why pivot tables in financial models can be a nightmare
• How Emma grew her social media following to over 9 million in less than a year
• The most underrated Excel shortcuts that can save hours of work

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “I had never really used Excel before my first job, so I had to teach myself from scratch.”
• There’s no secret formula for social media. Just post good content and stay consistent.”
• “If you’re learning Excel, repetition and practice are key.”

In this episode, Emma Chieppor shared her journey from actuary to Excel influencer, emphasizing consistency, hands on learning, and creativity in Excel. She highlighted the power of shortcuts, automation, and social media in making Excel more accessible. Excel is more than a tool; it is a platform for innovation and efficiency. Keep learning, stay curious, and master the skills that set you apart!

Follow Emma Chieppor :

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-chieppor-excel-dictionary-261444235/
• Website - https://excel-dictionary.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:

[01:30] - Introduction to the episode

[03:09] - Worst Financial Model Mistakes – Avoiding Pivot Tables

[06:43] - Emma’s Background from an Actuary to an Excel Star

[09:03] - How COVID Led to the Creation of Excel Dictionary

[13:04] - Emma’s Journey to One Million Plus Followers

[17:49] - The Importance of Consistency in Content Creation

[28:23] - Rapid-Fire Excel Questions on Excel Features

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Sean Mooney, a senior financial consultant specializing in automated financial modeling for professional services. Sean shares his journey from accounting to financial modeling, the challenges of revenue forecasting for law firms, and the power of Excel automation.

Sean Mooney is the founder of SJ Finance, a consultancy specializing in financial modeling automation for professional services firms. With 12+ years of executive finance experience in the UK and Australia, Sean has built financial models that have helped businesses secure millions in funding. He is an expert in Power Query, Excel automation, and M&A financial modeling, helping companies save up to 75% of reporting time through smart automation.

Expect to Learn:

• How Sean transitioned from accounting to financial modeling
• The role of Power Query in automating financial modeling processes
• Key revenue forecasting challenges in law firms and service businesses
• Why scenario planning is critical for financial models
• How financial modeling influences business strategy and decision-making

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Law firms have long cash cycles, so tracking work-in-progress (WIP) is absolutely critical.”
• “Debt financing can sometimes be a better alternative to private equity, but many business owners don’t realize that.”
• “The biggest risk in a financial model? A black hole of stagnant WIP that never turns into revenue.”

In this episode, Sean Mooney shared his expertise on how automation, Power Query, and strong forecasting techniques can transform financial models from static spreadsheets into dynamic decision-making tools. He advises financial modelers to stress-test their models, embrace automation, and always keep learning.

Follow Sean:

• LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-mooney-sjf
• Company - https://sjfinance.co.uk/

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:

[01:24] Introduction to the Episode

[06:55] Sean’s Passion for Financial Modeling

[09:45] Guiding Clients on Financial Decisions

[15:30] Revenue Forecasting for Law Firms

[24:38] The Potential of Power Query

[30:04] Sean’s Favorite Excel Shortcuts & Tips

[31:39] Excel Nerd Moment

[34:18] Rapid-Fire Questions

[37:53] Final Advice for Financial Modelers

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka the FP&A Guy) sits down with Frank David, an expert at the intersection of corporate strategy, clinical medicine, and biotech research. They discuss the unique challenges of financial modeling in the biopharma industry, the importance of understanding patient populations, and how drug development strategy influences financial decision-making.

Frank David is the Founder and Managing Director of Pharmagellan, a consulting firm specializing in biotech financial modeling and valuation. With a background as a physician scientist, Frank has extensive experience advising biopharma teams and investors. He also teaches at Tufts University and is the lead author of The Pharmagellan Guide to Biotech Forecasting and Valuation and The Pharmagellan Guide to Analyzing Biotech Clinical Trials.

Expect to Learn:

• The unique challenges of financial modeling in biotech and pharma.
• Why "small percent of a big market" is a flawed valuation approach.
• How patient segmentation impacts drug development strategy.
• The importance of risk-adjusted modeling and scenario planning.
• How financial modeling supports strategic decision-making in biotech investments.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Most early-stage biotech entrepreneurs don’t realize they need to think about who their patients actually are and what alternative treatments exist."
• "In drug development, forecasting is about managing uncertainty, not predicting exact numbers."
• "The clinical strategy and commercial strategy in biotech are so intertwined that modeling them separately can be misleading."

This episode explored the complexities of biotech financial modeling. Frank shared why traditional financial modeling approaches don’t always work in the biotech industry and how strategic decision-making relies heavily on understanding patient needs, regulatory pathways, and risk assessment.

Follow Frank:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-s-david/
• Company - https://www.pharmagellan.com/
• Email - [email protected]
• Book - https://a.co/d/gf8SwzI

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:

[01:14] - Introduction to the Episode

[02:02] - Meet Frank David

[04:17] - Financial Modeling Horror Story

[09:38] - Understanding Biotech Financial Models

[13:57] - Biotech Forecasting and Valuation

[18:15] - Where to Start When Analyzing a Drug Project

[24:52] - Risk-Adjusted Modeling in Biotech

[32:01] - Advice for Modelers in Biotech

[40:56] - Fun & Rapid-Fire Questions

[49:32] - How to Connect with Frank David

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Babatope Agbeyo, a corporate trainer with extensive experience in financial modeling, Excel, and valuation. Babatope shares about his "SIMPLE" modeling framework, experiences in financial advisory at Deloitte, and lessons from training over 3,000 professionals globally. He also discusses his passion for keeping financial models structured, logical, and error-free.

Babatope Agbeyo is a financial modeling expert and corporate trainer who has worked across multiple industries, including telecom, manufacturing, oil & gas, and tech. With experience at Deloitte and D Brown Consulting, he has reviewed and audited countless financial models, refining his approach through his "SIMPLE" modeling framework. Babatope is a certified AFM and FMVA and is passionate about making financial modeling more structured and effective.

Expect to Learn:

• The importance of keeping financial models simple and structured
• Babatope’s SIMPLE modeling framework and how it improves modeling efficiency
• Common financial modeling mistakes and how to avoid them
• How to effectively audit financial models using the PAINS approach
• The best industries for financial modeling and which ones are the most challenging

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "A great financial model should be modular, meaning each calculation block is distinct and easy to read."
• "Most errors I find in financial models come from poor calculations and linking mistakes."
• "A well-structured financial model should be easy to read, navigate, and troubleshoot."

Financial modeling isn't just about crunching numbers, it's about telling a story with data, making informed decisions, and ensuring accuracy at every step. Babatope’s SIMPLE framework and PAINS approach remind us that clarity and structure are just as important as technical skill. If you’ve ever struggled with a model that just wouldn’t balance, or spent hours troubleshooting an error, this episode is a must-listen.

Follow Babatope:

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

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:

[01:18] Introduction to the Episode

[03:39] Financial Modeling Horror Story

[05:28] Lessons from Working with David Brown

[07:15] What It’s Like Working at Deloitte

[09:48] The SIMPLE Framework

[14:06] The Art of Teaching Financial Modeling

[16:16] Preparing for the AFM Exam

[21:16] The PAINS Approach to Auditing Models

[24:20] Excel Shortcuts & Unique Modeling Use Cases

[26:08] Biggest Career Lesson

[28:58] Rapid-Fire Questions

[33:38] Final Advice

[34:46] Where to Connect with Babatope

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Andres Klaric, the co-founder and co-CEO of Fuse. In their conversation, Andres discusses common financial modeling mistakes, how startup models differ from corporate M&A models, and what investors truly look for when evaluating projections. He also shares firsthand experiences on navigating the fundraising process, balancing work ethic with personal life, and the strategic approach to scaling a company.

Andres Klaric is the co-founder and co-CEO of Fuse, a next-generation loan origination system designed to streamline lending for financial institutions through self-serve customization, a low-code API builder, and personalized agent portfolios. Andres shares his journey from investment banking and private equity to launching a fintech startup that’s reshaping loan origination. He provides insights into financial modeling for startups, securing venture capital, and the critical lessons he’s learned from Wall Street.

Expect to Learn:

• The biggest mistakes and horror stories in financial modeling.
• How startup financial models differ from corporate M&A models.
• The key factors venture capitalists look for in startup projections.
• Lessons from private equity and investment banking that shaped Andres as a CEO.
• The art of balancing complexity and simplicity in financial modeling.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “The biggest mistake in startup modeling? Overcomplicating things when simple assumptions will do.”
• “Modeling for investors and modeling for internal operations are two completely different things.”
• “A bad financial model won’t kill your startup, but a bad go-to-market strategy will.”

This episode with Andres Klaric was packed with insights on financial modeling, fundraising, and the lessons learned from both Wall Street and the startup world. From the importance of keeping financial models simple to navigating investor expectations, Andres provided a masterclass on startup finance and strategic thinking. Hard work, strategy, and the ability to adapt will always outweigh an over-engineered spreadsheet.

Follow Andres:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andresklaric/
• Company: https://www.fusefinance.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:

[02:59] - Worst Financial Model Horror Stories

[08:57] - The Journey to Founding Fuse

[11:53] - Lessons from Wall Street

[18:07] - Financial Modeling for Startups

[23:05] - How VCs Evaluate Startup Models

[25:06] - Fundraising Strategies & Finding the Right Investors

[32:07] - Rapid-Fire Financial Modeling Q&A

[42:34] - Final Advice & Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with financial educator and author Brian Feroldi. They discuss the fundamentals of stock investing, financial modeling, and how to identify high-quality companies. Brian shares insights from his investing journey, his investing checklist, and his thoughts on valuation, competitive advantages, and the role of financial models in investment decisions.

Brian Feroldi is a financial educator, investor, and author dedicated to demystifying the stock market. With nearly two decades of investing experience, Brian has written over 3,000 articles on stocks, personal finance, and investing. His best-selling book “Why Does the Stock Market Go Up?” explains market fundamentals in simple terms. Through his YouTube channel, social media presence, and educational content, Brian helps investors make smarter decisions by focusing on business quality, valuation, and long-term investing strategies.

Expect to Learn:

• Why financial models depend on good assumptions and how they can be manipulated
• The biggest mistakes investors make and how to avoid them
• How Brian analyzes financial statements and what metrics he prioritizes
• The five key types of competitive advantages (EMOTs) in business
• How to build an investing checklist to guide stock selection

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “When I invest, I’m looking for businesses that can outperform even the most bullish expectations.”
• “Understanding where a company is in its business lifecycle is critical to valuation.”
• “The biggest mistake people make is using the wrong valuation model for the wrong type of company.”

Brian’s emphasis on having a structured investing checklist, focusing on competitive advantages, and choosing the right valuation method for the right stage of a company’s lifecycle highlights the importance of strategy over speculation. If you're looking to improve your investing game, start by educating yourself, refining your process, and remembering that patience often wins the race.

Follow Brian:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianferoldi/
• Website - https://www.brianferoldi.com/
• Email - [email protected]
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/brianferoldiyt
• Book - https://a.co/d/3gS5JZL

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: 

[01:02] - Introduction to Guest Brian Feroldi

[06:35] - Brian’s Investing Journey and Early Mistakes

[10:19] - Brian’s Checklist for Evaluating Companies

[15:41] - The Financial Statement Analysis

[20:24] - Competitive Advantages (EMOTs)

[29:50] - Advice to Begin Investing in the Market

[31:20] - Common Investor Mistakes 

[33:51] - Valuation Models & Growth Cycles 

[41:36] - Final Advice & Book Recommendations 

[42:55] - Where to Find Brian

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, looks into the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence on financial modeling. The discussion explores how AI is reshaping the industry, the challenges and opportunities it brings, and what financial modelers can expect in the coming years.

Kenny Whitelaw-Jones who is the founding partner at Gridlines joins the show. As a leading expert in project finance modeling, Kenny has played a pivotal role in shaping financial modeling standards globally. With over a decade of experience training blue-chip clients and developing complex models, he brings invaluable insights into how AI is poised to revolutionize financial modeling.

Expect to Learn:

• How AI is expected to significantly impact financial modeling, with Kenny's recent industry survey.
• The current limitations of AI tools like ChatGPT in financial modeling and where they excel.
• How project finance modeling differs from other types of financial modeling, and why Kenny finds it exciting.
• The importance of soft skills and communication in the evolving role of financial modelers.
• The future skills financial modelers will need to stay ahead in an AI-driven world.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "In the future, the routine tasks will be automated, and modelers will focus more on strategic, value-adding activities."
• "Being a good modeler isn’t just about Excel skills. It’s about interpreting data and communicating results effectively."
• "The change AI brings is inevitable because as soon as we can imagine it, someone will figure out how to make it happen."

As AI continues to evolve, it's clear that financial modeling is on the brink of a major transformation. Kenny Whitelaw-Jones shared not just the technical impacts we can expect from AI, but also how the role of financial modelers will shift toward strategic thinking, business interpretation, and effective communication. While tools like ChatGPT and Copilot are making waves, it’s the human element that will remain irreplaceable.

Follow Kenny:

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

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:

[01:46] – Meet Kenny Whitelaw-Jones

[02:35] – The Worst Financial Model Encountered

[05:43] – Why Project Finance and Renewables?

[10:04] – Survey for AI in Financial Modeling

[14:58] – ChatGPT vs. Copilot

[18:57] – Excel Innovations & the Future of Modeling

[22:34] – The Future of Financial Modeling with AI

[26:50] – Soft Skills & the Evolving Role of Financial Modelers

[33:51] – Rapid-Fire Round

[40:51] – Life Beyond Financial Modeling

[43:48] – Final Thoughts & How to Connect with Kenny

In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst aka The FP&A Guy looks into Excel expertise with Joel Steendam. Joel shares his global experiences, technical know-how, and practical advice to improve Excel proficiency and financial modeling outcomes. Their conversation covers Excel tools, design principles, and the importance of curiosity and cultural awareness in professional success.

Joel Steendam is a global Excel expert and educator with a passion for helping professionals create better financial models. As a key member of PerfectXL, he develops software to improve spreadsheet quality, mitigate risks, and promote best practices in Excel. With a multicultural background and years of experience in financial modeling, Joel blends technical expertise with a deep understanding of how culture influences collaboration and problem-solving.

Expect to Learn:

• Worst financial models and how to fix common spreadsheet issues.
• Why named ranges and documentation are essential in financial modeling.
• How Joel’s multicultural upbringing has shaped his professional approach and success.
• Practical advice on staying curious and learning new Excel skills.
• The role of tools like PerfectXL in auditing and improving spreadsheet quality for financial modeling.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Even best practices, when misused, can have a massive negative impact on Excel models."
• "PerfectXL’s tools focus on mitigating risks and improving model quality by emphasizing structure and consistency."
• "If you build something on Monday that you don’t understand by Wednesday, you’re not building the right thing."

Joel Steendam shared his expertise on improving Excel models, staying curious, and navigating the challenges of financial modeling. Financial models are powerful decision-making tools, but they’re only as effective as their structure and design allow them to be. Joel provided invaluable lessons for both beginners and experienced modelers on structure, documentation, and tools.

Follow Joel:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-steendam/
• Website - https://www.perfectxl.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:

[01:49] - Introduction and Meet the Guest

[02:49] - Horror Stories in Financial Models

[04:28] - Key Takeaways from Bad Models

[06:45] - Joel’s Global Background

[10:18] - PerfectXL and Best Practices in Excel

[14:56] - Staying Updated on Excel

[18:03] - Advice for Beginners in Excel

[29:14] - Balancing Excel’s Flexibility and Risks

[36:12] - Fun Projects in Excel

[38:38] - Rapid-Fire Questions

[48:26] - Final Advice for Financial Modelers