In this episode, we welcome Danielle Stein Fairhurst, a renowned Microsoft MVP, Author, and Corporate Trainer. Danielle shares her expertise in financial modeling, highlighting the crucial distinction between models and reality.

We also delve into best practices for building accurate financial models, emphasising the importance of separating inputs from calculations and avoiding hard-coded assumptions. We also explore the role of visuals, collaboration, and lesser-known Excel functions in elevating your modeling game. Join us as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of tech for finance. Like, subscribe, and stay ahead of the curve!

------SHOW NOTES------

- Subscribe to 'Framework Friday' - www.techforfinance.com

- Connect with Danielle - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellesteinfairhurst/

- Using Excel for Business & Financial Modelling - https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/book/10.1002/9781119520344

- Financial Modelling in Excel for Dummies - https://www.dummies.com/book/technology/software/microsoft-products/excel/financial-modeling-in-excel-for-dummies-281721/

------CHAPTERS------

- (00:01:39) - Danielle's experience in Saudi Arabia

- (00:05:57) - Common financial modeling mistakes

- (00:11:15) - Understanding financial models vs. reality

- (00:16:23) - Dangers of relying on AI models

- (00:21:02) - Elevating financial models for collaboration

- (00:27:04) - Importance of visuals in modeling

- (00:31:49) - Collecting and managing model data

- (00:35:32) - Lesser-known Excel functions for modeling

- (00:37:49) - Women in Financial Modeling group