Are you a finance professional who relies on Excel but is curious about the power of programming? In this episode of FinPod: What's New at CFI, we're joined by subject matter expert Joseph Yeates to discuss his new course, Getting Started with Python.

Joseph explains why Python is a must-learn skill for data analysis and how this course provides a gentle, practical introduction designed specifically for those with a business background.

The course covers:

• Foundational Concepts: An overview of core Python concepts like variables, data types, and data structures, all explained with real-world scenarios.
• The Excel to Python Bridge: How the course uses familiar, tabular data structures (like those in Excel) to help you make a smooth transition into the world of programming.
• Common Hurdles: A look at the common challenges new learners face, from tricky setup processes to frustrating errors, and how this course helps you overcome them.
• The Power of Hands-On Learning: Why watching videos isn't enough to learn a programming language, and why practice exercises in a Jupyter Notebook are essential to truly mastering the material.

If you've been on the fence about learning a programming language, this episode will provide the encouragement you need to take the first step and unlock a new level of data analysis.