Next-Level Financial Modeling with AI and Automation for CFOs with Chase Wright

Oct 22, 2024

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In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst dives into the evolution of financial modeling with guest Chase Wright. The discussion focuses on modern financial modeling tools and workflows, particularly a new spreadsheet tool called Equals, and how it compares to Excel and Google Sheets. Wright shares his journey from a finance background to working at startups, where he developed innovative methods to streamline financial operations using cutting-edge tools.

Chase Wright is a seasoned finance executive with a decade of experience across startups and tech companies like GitLab, Instabug, and Red Hat. Currently the Head of Finance and Data at Uniqode, Chase has a unique blend of corporate finance, data science, and business management expertise. He’s also an advisor to Cacheflow and a limited partner at FOG Ventures. With an engineering background and deep experience in finance, Chase brings a fresh perspective on the challenges and innovations in financial modeling.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

How Chase Wright’s career journey led him to innovate in financial modeling
The role of modern spreadsheet tools like Equals in finance and data teams
How to use tools like Equals to automate reporting and financial analysis
The importance of balancing curiosity and necessity when developing career skills
The pros and cons of traditional modeling tools like Excel and Google Sheets versus newer alternatives

Here are a few quotes from Chase Wright:

“Equals is a modern spreadsheet for data and finance teams, connecting directly to your data sources.” - Chase Wright
“Financial models are incredibly helpful, but at the end of the day, it's the intuition behind the model that really matters.” - Chase Wright
“Slack integration in Equals makes communicating insights across the company incredibly simple.” - Chase Wright
“AI in Equals acts as a copilot, making things like summing columns or adding borders incredibly intuitive.” - Chase Wright

In this episode, Chase Wright shares his journey from struggling with complex models in Excel to embracing the automation and connectivity that Equals offers highlights the growing need for more intuitive and efficient financial tools. He emphasizes that the right tools, combined with critical thinking, can not only improve workflows but also provide deeper insights that drive business success.

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In today’s episode:

[01:45] – Introduction to Chase Wright and his journey

[02:54] – The nightmare of VBA models and lessons

[04:24] – Educational Path: Finance to Engineering

[07:01] – Equals: The modern spreadsheet tool

[15:13] – How Equals Simplifies Data Integration

[20:02] – Financial modeling: Critical Thinking in Action

[31:03] – Rapid Fire Segment: Excel and Equals

[39:37] – Conclusion and Final Thoughts