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 salesThe importance of simplicity and storytelling in financial modelsWhat it’s like to manage an insolvency and restructure a businessWhy Dave believes gut instinct still plays a big role in decision-makingHow Dave uses modeling to support store openings, closures, and growthPractical advice for switching into a finance career later in lifeHere 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.Follow Dave:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hallwood-fcca-cfm-87270449/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=7079020077076905984Sign 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: [01:31] - 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

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 designHow to effectively prepare for the AFM examBest practices for managing data flow in ExcelWhy Power Query is one of Excel’s most powerful toolsHow Full Stack Modeler is helping professionals level up in financeThe value of designing with clarity and reviewing with confidenceMyles’s journey from complex automation to clean, intuitive spreadsheetsHere 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 ArnottIn 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=7079020077076905984Sign 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 influencerThe challenges of learning Excel while starting a corporate job during COVIDWhy pivot tables in financial models can be a nightmareHow Emma grew her social media following to over 9 million in less than a yearThe most underrated Excel shortcuts that can save hours of workHere 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=7079020077076905984Sign 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

Sean Mooney, a senior financial consultant and founder of SJ Finance, dives into the intricate world of revenue forecasting for law firms. With his expertise in Excel automation, he reveals the challenges firms face, particularly with long cash cycles and the need for precise Work In Progress (WIP) reporting. Sean shares insights on the importance of scenario planning in financial models and the significant role of Power Query in streamlining data management. He emphasizes that accuracy is crucial, as stagnant WIP can lead to financial pitfalls, offering a fresh perspective on overcoming these hurdles.

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 - frank@pharmagellan.comBook - https://a.co/d/gf8SwzIFollow 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=7079020077076905984Sign 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 structuredBabatope’s SIMPLE modeling framework and how it improves modeling efficiencyCommon financial modeling mistakes and how to avoid themHow to effectively audit financial models using the PAINS approachThe best industries for financial modeling and which ones are the most challengingHere 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 - babatopesamuelagbeyo@gmail.comFollow 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=7079020077076905984Sign 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 engaging conversation, Andres Klaric, co-founder and co-CEO of Fuse, shares insights from his transition from investment banking to launching a fintech startup. He delves into the common mistakes in financial modeling, emphasizing the danger of overcomplicating forecasts. Klaric also reveals what venture capitalists truly look for in startup projections, and he recounts his strategies for navigating the fundraising process while balancing work and personal life. Expect valuable lessons on simplifying complexity in financial models and preparing for investor pitches.

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 manipulatedThe biggest mistakes investors make and how to avoid themHow Brian analyzes financial statements and what metrics he prioritizesThe five key types of competitive advantages (EMOTs) in businessHow to build an investing checklist to guide stock selectionHere 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 - brian@brianferoldi.comYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/brianferoldiytBook - https://a.co/d/3gS5JZLFollow 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=7079020077076905984Sign 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

Kenny Whitelaw-Jones, founding partner at Gridlines, is a financial modeling guru with a decade of experience training top-tier clients. He discusses how AI, particularly tools like ChatGPT and Copilot, is revolutionizing financial modeling while also addressing its current limitations. Kenny highlights the distinct nature of project finance, the necessity of soft skills alongside technical prowess, and the future skills modelers must cultivate in an AI-driven landscape, making the profession more strategic and communicative.

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=7079020077076905984Sign 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