Financial Modeler's Corner

Your Average Finance Bro, a humorous figure in financial modeling and a self-proclaimed Goldman Sachs founder, dives into the often serious world of finance with a comedic twist. He discusses why memorability trumps technical accuracy in Excel, sharing funny stories about using spreadsheets in dating. The importance of personal branding, hilarious pranks, and some unconventional networking strategies are also explored. Expect laughs alongside insights as Finance Bro showcases how to present financial models confidently, even with questionable numbers!

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Dr. Stephen Horan to discuss the fundamentals of financial modeling, the challenges and rewards of teaching finance, and how curiosity and simplicity are central to both education and professional modeling. Dr. Horan draws on his extensive experience as a finance professor and former Managing Director at CFA Institute, offering unique insights into the intersection of academia, practical modeling, and credentialing.Dr. Stephen is a finance professor at UNC Wilmington and former Managing Director at the CFA Institute. He has over 30 years of experience in academia and industry, has authored award-winning research, and co-wrote Strategic Value Investing, featured on Warren Buffett’s reading list. His work bridges theory and practice in finance education. Dr. Horan is also a sought-after speaker and serves on editorial boards for leading finance journals.Expect to LearnWhat makes a model readable and useful and why fundamentals matter.How to teach financial modeling in a way that’s active and practical.The difference between book knowledge and real-world application in finance.Insights into CFA Institute’s evolution toward practical skills and global relevance.The mindset and skills students need to transition from learning to doing.Here are a few quotes from the episode:"Curiosity is the skill I had to learn and it’s the one that’s helped me most in my career." - Stephen Horan"Give someone the experience of building a model and solving problems. That’s the real education." - Stephen Horan"The ability to explain how you built a model is more powerful in an interview than listing courses on a résumé."  Stephen HoranFollow Stephen:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenhoranphd/Twitter - http://twitter.com/StephenHoranCFAFollow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguyFollow 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: [02:07] - Guest Introduction [04:19] - Modeling Horror Story [10:41] - Bridging Theory and Practice [13:31] - Power of Teaching [17:55] - Learning by Modeling [26:23] - CFA Institute Insights [35:07] - Favorite Excel Shortcut [39:36] - Rapid Fire Round [46:02] - Final Thoughts and Contact

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst speaks with Janice Shade and Michael Tapia about the intersection of sustainability, financial modeling, and education. They share the behind-the-scenes creation of a unique MBA course focused on sustainable finance and modeling at Bard College. The episode dives into horror stories from the modeling trenches, highlights the challenges of teaching complex topics in an accessible way, and explores the future of financial education and tools.Janice is a systems entrepreneur and finance educator with over 30 years of experience. She has worked with both for-profit and nonprofit ventures, focusing on democratic access to capital and economic justice. Janice is also the author of Moving Mountains and teaches finance at Bard’s MBA in Sustainability program. Michael transitioned from the fitness industry into sustainable finance. With an MBA in Impact Finance from Bard, he co-developed and co-taught a financial modeling course that incorporates ESG data and sustainability into traditional financial analysis. Michael is passionate about inclusive, community-driven investment strategies and financial education.Expect to LearnWhat makes a financial model “fit for purpose”, and why complexity isn’t always better.How financial modeling can support sustainability and social impact.Tips for teaching finance to non-finance students and building curriculum from the ground up.The importance of scenario and sensitivity analysis in forecasting.Practical insights on bridging theory and hands-on financial modeling in academia.Here are a few quotes from the episode:"Finance shouldn't feel mystical or exclusive, our goal is to make it approachable and relevant." - Janice Shade"As a former trainer, I saw how performance metrics drove change. Now I see capital can do the same, if used with purpose." - Michael Tapia"Forecasting is hard, and no forecast is ever right. We're just trying to make it less wrong." - Janice ShadeFollow Janice:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/janice-shade/Website - https://innovatecapital.org/teamFollow Michael:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-tapia-Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguyFollow 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: [02:29] - Introduction of Janice and Michael[07:20] - Worst Financial Model[14:04] - Defining a Financial Model[15:18] - Story Behind the MBA Modeling Course[22:43] - Janice’s Key Takeaways from First Cohort[29:34] - Michael’s Course and Podcast Episodes[42:45] - Favourite Shortcut in Excel[43:47] - Creative Excel Uses[47:32] - Rapid Fire Section

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst and co-host Carolina Lago explore their experiences with financial modeling and the Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) certification. They discuss the value of these certifications, the challenges of studying for them, and how these programs can improve financial modeling skills. They also provide helpful tips and insights into preparing for the Chartered Financial Modeler (CFM) certification.Carolina is a financial modeling and FP&A specialist with over 20 years of experience. She holds the Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) certification from the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI) and is working toward the Elite Certified Financial Modeler (CFM) credential. Carolina is passionate about teaching financial modeling and helping professionals use financial models to make better strategic decisions. Her workshops focus on best practices, scenario analysis, and providing businesses with the tools needed to navigate financial challenges.Expect to LearnThe definition of a financial model and how to differentiate it from other types of business models.Tips for studying for the AFM and CFM certifications, including managing time effectively and balancing models as you work.Carolina’s experience preparing for the AFM and how to build financial models quickly under pressure.The importance of practice in financial modeling and how to improve speed and efficiency.The differences between the AFM and CFM certifications and why both are valuable for financial modelers.Here are a few quotes from the episode:"Even if I don’t pass the first time, I will have already succeeded by learning new techniques and improving my skills." - Carolina Lago"You need to be resourceful and think quickly when preparing for the CFM. It’s about adapting to complexity in multiple areas." - Carolina Lago"A financial model is anything that has inputs, calculations, and outputs, but at the same time answers a business question." - Carolina LagoFollow Carolina:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-carolinalago?originalSubdomain=chWebsite - carolinalago.comCourse Tactic On-Demand: https://tacticfinancial.com/financial-model-for-you/newsletter:  https://pages.tacticfinancial.com/thetacticalroomFollow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguyFollow 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: [08:03] - What is a Financial Model?[12:52] - Fun Use of Excel in Personal Life[17:06] - Learning About FMI[24:41] - Toughest Area in AFM Preparation[28:19] - Advice for AFM Exam[38:07] - CFM Difficulty and Value[42:36] - Broken Spreadsheet Joke[44:56] - Wrapping Up the Episode

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Jon Acampora to discuss the ever-evolving world of financial modeling, focusing on Excel. Jon shares about the importance of creating user-friendly models and the impact of Excel Esports on financial modeling skills. The conversation covers best practices for building efficient models, lessons from Excel competitions, and how new technologies like Power Query and AI are shaping the future of modeling.Jon is the founder of Excel Campus, a Microsoft MVP, and an expert in helping Excel users simplify and automate their workflows. With over 600,000 YouTube subscribers, Jon is passionate about making Excel both fun and efficient. He’s also a regular commentator for Excel Esports competitions, where Excel professionals compete to solve complex modeling challenges in real time. Jon’s mission is to help people leverage Excel to boost productivity and creativity, making financial modeling more accessible and enjoyable.Expect to LearnThe importance of building financial models that are easy for others to understand and use.Jon's take on the role of Excel Esports in advancing modeling skills and fostering creativity.How Power Query can save you hours of data processing time in Excel.Why financial modelers should focus on simplicity and automation rather than over-complicating their models.Insights into the future of financial modeling with the integration of Python and AI tools.Here are a few quotes from the episode:“AI is great at generating code, but it’s the human creativity that still leads the way.” - Jon Acampora“As an Excel professional, it's important to make models that others can easily work with, even if they don't have the same technical skills you do.” - Jon Acampora“If you want to be great at Excel, you have to understand that learning never stops. There’s always something new to discover.” - Jon AcamporaFollow Jon:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonacampora/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/ExcelCampusWebsite - https://www.excelcampus.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguyFollow 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:  [03:45] - Horror Story [08:50] - Defining Financial Models [11:55] - From Accounting to Excel Business [18:42] - Competing in Excel Esports [21:27] - What Jon Enjoys About Announcing [27:36] - Advice for Aspiring Excel Competitors [37:43] - Memorable Teaching Moment [42:43] - Favourite Excel Shortcut [45:12] - Rapid Fire Section

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Drew Blazsik to dive into the evolving world of financial modeling in academia. Drew brings a fresh perspective on how students can better grasp complex concepts using structured, interactive learning. The conversation touches on practical teaching methods, the common pitfalls students face, and why blending creativity with structure is key to mastering the three-statement model.Drew Blazsik is an assistant professor at Adrian College, where he teaches finance and economics. With over a decade of teaching experience at institutions like the University of Toledo and Lourdes University, Drew has a passion for connecting academic finance theory with real-world applications. He is also the creator of the Structured Immediate Method (SIM), an innovative teaching tool designed to help students master financial modeling skills in a dynamic and engaging way. Drew hosts the Faith and Finance Podcast and runs the Logos and Markets YouTube channel, where he explores financial modeling, economic theory, and more.Expect to LearnCommon mistakes students make in financial modeling and how to avoid them.How Drew’s Structured Immediate Method (SIM) enhances student learning.Why learning Python is crucial for modern financial modelers.The impact of gamification and interactive learning on mastering financial concepts.Drew's take on the future of financial modeling in the age of AI.Here are a few quotes from the episode:“Once you understand how to create a financial model, it all clicks and makes finance come together.” - Drew Blazsik“AI is awesome for creativity, but it starts with you, the human, being creative.” - Drew Blazsik“The SIM method helps students get instant feedback, which improves their learning and engagement.” -Drew BlazsikFollow Drew:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewblazsik/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/drewblazsikFollow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguyFollow 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: [04:15] - Student Modeling Mistakes[09:07] - Defining Financial Models[12:08] - Teaching Finance vs. Economics[18:21] - Course Feedback[36:27] - Unique Excel Model[39:04] - Excel Shortcuts[42:44] - Financial Models in Decision Making[45:40] - Importance of Python[50:39] - Last Question

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Alyona Mysko shares her journey from a PwC auditor to a fintech founder creating FuelFinance, a no-code financial planning tool tailored for startups and small businesses. She discusses common financial modeling challenges faced by first-time founders, the complexities of the manufacturing and fashion industries, and the importance of simplifying financial models for better decision-making. Alyona emphasizes the power of effective communication and scenario planning, helping entrepreneurs and modelers make sense of numbers to drive business success.Alyona Mysko is the Founder and CEO of FuelFinance, a fintech startup delivering no-code financial planning tools designed specifically for startups and small businesses. With a professional background starting as an auditor at PwC, Alyona transitioned into financial analysis and fractional CFO roles before launching her own company. She brings deep expertise in financial modeling and a passion for simplifying complex financial data to empower founders and entrepreneurs. Expect to LearnHow Alyona’s audit background influenced the creation of a finance platform for startupsWhy first-time founders struggle with financial modeling and how second-time founders differThe complexity behind manufacturing and fashion business models and modeling nuancesThe importance of simplified dashboards focusing on key metrics for decision-makingWhy communication and storytelling in financial modeling is essential for impactHere are a few quotes from the episode:“Finance is just like fuel for a business. If you understand your numbers, you can go fast.” - Alyona MyskoFirst-time founders don’t know what they don’t know. Second-time founders know to start with the financial model.” - Alyona Mysko“Communication is 50% of your success as a financial modeler.” - Alyona MyskoFollow Alyona :LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyona-mysko/Website - https://fuelfinance.me/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguyFollow 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: [02:31] - The Story Behind FuelFinance[06:00] - Aylona’s Background[11:03] - Industry-Specific Modeling Challenges[18:14] - Cross-Functional Realization[23:57] - Revenue vs. Cash Flow Realities[28:14] - Balancing Model Simplicity[35:11] - Key Career Lesson[39:41] - Rapid Fire Section

Scott Powell, co-founder of the Corporate Finance Institute, shares his 25 years of expertise in financial modeling. He dives into common pitfalls, emphasizing the dangers of overcomplication and legacy models. Scott advocates for a balance between technical precision and stakeholder usability, highlighting empathetic teaching as crucial to effective financial training. Listeners gain insights into essential Excel techniques, the importance of clear documentation, and the value of continuous learning to enhance financial modeling skills. Expect practical tips and inspiration!

In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst talks with Narek Grigorian, a seasoned financial modeler and investment professional with deep experience across real estate, energy, and biotech sectors. Narek shares candid stories about the worst financial model he ever worked on, one that looked polished but was fundamentally flawed, missing key components like taxes, depreciation, and tenant turnover. He explains how these mistakes can mislead decision-makers and why it’s critical to understand not just the numbers but also the assumptions behind them.Narek Grigorian currently works at US Capital Global, a global investment banking firm focused on real estate and energy projects, particularly in the lower to middle market space. He holds degrees from Georgetown University and the University of Maryland and brings a passion for financial modeling, innovation, and teaching. Narek believes that while all models are inherently imperfect, they still provide valuable guidance, if built with thoughtful assumptions and continual refinement.Expect to Learn:Why can you never fully trust a model just because it looks polished.The critical real estate assumptions that are often overlooked, like tenant turnover and escalating costs.How to approach energy modeling with real-time data inputs and complex variables.Why biotech models are uniquely challenging due to regulatory and clinical uncertainties.Tips and shortcuts Narek uses in Excel to make modeling faster and more reliable.Here are a few quotes from the episode:““The toughest part is you have the wardrobe of clothes but have to create the person.” - Narek Grigorian“Power Query and Power BI are essential tools for modern financial modelers.” - Narek Grigorian“Vacancy rates and market growth assumptions are the most common pitfalls in real estate models.” - Narek GrigorianNarek’s practical and approachable style makes this episode valuable for anyone involved in financial modeling whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience. His clear advice on key assumptions, Excel techniques, and industry-specific challenges offers useful takeaways to help you create more accurate and effective models.Follow Narek :LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/narek-grigorian-8869a7254/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguyFollow 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: [01:12] - Welcome To The Episode [06:00] - About Narek and US Capital Global[08:25] - Market Outlook: Inflation, Tariffs, and Stagflation[10:33] - Narek’s Journey from Armenia to the US[14:49] - Favorite Industry to Model: Energy[17:42] - Real Estate Modeling Insights[25:34] - Common Mistakes in Real Estate Models[27:19] - Biopharma and Modeling Challenges[31:42] - Excel Shortcuts and Tools[38:22] - Power Query, Power BI, and Future of Excel[44:18] - How to Connect with Narek and Closing

In this special episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by CFO and startup finance educator Lauren Pearl for a storytelling session that’s equal parts funny and terrifying. They walk through “The Currency Catastrophe,” a true finance horror story about a global company, a junior analyst, and a massive mistake involving currency conversions. As the story unfolds, Paul and Lauren react, unpack what went wrong, and share their own war stories from years working in finance.Lauren Pearl is a CFO, startup advisor, and finance educator who specializes in helping early-stage companies build strong financial foundations. With a career that spans startups, venture-backed firms, and a stint in top-tier management consulting, Lauren brings a unique blend of strategic thinking and practical execution. She's also known for her hands-on approach to teaching financial modeling and startup finance through courses, content, and mentorship.Expect to Learn:What happens when you skip currency conversion in a global revenue allocation.Why getting the basics right is just as important as the big strategy.How one mistake can ripple across budgets, teams, and trust.The value of transparency and ownership is when something goes wrong.Why it’s crucial to put checks in your models, especially when currencies are involved.Here are a few quotes from the episode:“The finance department was such a dumpster fire, it created cloud cover for the mistake.” - Lauren Pearl“Modelers: always put currency checks in your spreadsheets. This stuff happens more than you think.” - Paul Barnhurst“Apologize and overcorrect. That’s the CFO playbook when you make a mistake.” - Lauren PearlLauren and Paul share a story every finance professional can relate to, a small mistake that snowballs into something much bigger. Whether you’re new to finance or have been around the block, this episode is a reminder of why fundamentals matter and how a little humor can help you get through even the most stressful moments. If you've ever cringed at your own spreadsheet or scrambled to fix a report before a meeting, you'll feel right at home.Follow Lauren :LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenepearl/Website - https://www.laurenpearlconsulting.com/link-listFollow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpandaguyFollow 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: [00:00] - Trailer[01:43] - Welcome & Intro to the Horror Story [03:01] - Meet Lauren Pearl[06:07] - The Story of the Currency Catastrophe[09:54] - When Meetings Could Just Be Emails[13:52] - Accounting Chaos and Rising Tension[16:59] - The Currency Blunder Uncovered[20:00] - Why the Mistake Mattered So Much[24:33] - Quiet Fixes and Avoiding Fallout[27:34] - Paul’s Own Finance Mishap[30:13] - Lauren’s Pricing Error [34:19] - Final Lessons for Modelers [35:07] - Closing Thoughts