Financial Modeler's Corner

Paul Barnhurst AKA The FP&A Guy
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Financial Modeler's Corner is a podcast where we talk all about the art and science of financial modeling with distinguished Financial Modeler's from around the globe. Financial Modeler's Corner is hosted by Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, a global thought leader in the field of finance.  The Financial Modeler's Corner podcast is brought to you by Financial Modeling Institute. FMI offers the most respected accreditations in financial modeling. 

  1. Financial Modeling for Analysts to Build Clear, Structured Models for Better Decisions with Shreya Bhatt

    1 DAY AGO

    Financial Modeling for Analysts to Build Clear, Structured Models for Better Decisions with Shreya Bhatt

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst speaks with Shreya Bhatt about her journey in financial modeling and her experience working across infrastructure and project finance. Shreya shares real challenges she has faced, including rebuilding poorly structured models, and explains what makes a model reliable and easy to use. The conversation also covers modeling standards, practical use cases, and how financial models support real-world decisions. Shreya Bhatt is a Manager at CrossBoundary Group with over eight years of experience in financial modeling and infrastructure finance. She works on project finance, portfolio modeling, and investment analysis, supporting decision-making across sectors like renewable energy and infrastructure. Expect to Learn What makes a financial model reliable and easy to useCommon mistakes that make models difficult to work withHow project finance models connect to real-world decisionsWhen to use different modeling standards like FAST and SMARTHow AI fits into financial modeling today Here are a few quotes from the episode: A model can either be the most powerful tool or the most frustrating one.” – Shreya Bhatt“AI can help us, but judgment and interpretation will always remain important.” – Shreya Bhatt Shreya explains that strong financial models are built with clarity, structure, and consistency. She highlights that while tools and technologies like AI can speed up parts of the process, the real value comes from understanding the business, making sound assumptions, and delivering insights that support decision-making. Follow Sherya: Gmail: shreyabhattofficial@gmail.com Linkedin: https://in.linkedin.com/in/-shreyabhatt- Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign 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] – Introduction [02:48] – Worst Modeling Experience [05:44] – Role at CrossBoundary [07:35] – Favourite Model Types [11:14] – Portfolio & Solar Models [14:06] – FAST Certification Journey [16:15] – FAST vs SMART Standards [19:56] – Modeling Best Practices [23:36] – AI in Financial Modeling [28:52] – Career Lessons [33:04] – Rapid Fire Insights [36:56] – Final Advice

    39 min
  2. AI in Finance for Professionals Dealing with Errors, Overhype, and Constant Learning Pressure

    28 APR

    AI in Finance for Professionals Dealing with Errors, Overhype, and Constant Learning Pressure

    In this episode of The Mod Squad, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male share their real experiences using AI in financial modelling. They cut through the hype and discuss what AI actually does well, where it still struggles, and how professionals should be thinking about using it today. From building models to handling workflows, the conversation highlights both the value and the limitations of AI tools in real work. Expect to Learn Where AI actually helps in finance and modelling workWhy most “one-click solution” claims are unrealisticThe importance of checking and guiding AI outputsHow instructions and structure improve AI results Here are a few quotes from the episode: “It’s not a one-click solution. You still have to check everything.” – Giles Male“You will have to understand every line to guide AI properly.” – Ian Schnoor AI is powerful, but it’s not a shortcut to good work. It still needs guidance, structure, and strong fundamentals. The people who benefit most will be the ones who understand both the tools and the work behind them. For now, the best approach is simple: use it, test it, and don’t trust it blindly. Follow Ian: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/ Follow Giles: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/ In today’s episode: [02:06] – Current thoughts on AI after recent progress [03:45] – Daily use of AI and time savings [05:00] – Mental fatigue and keeping up with AI changes [08:03] – Calling out AI hype and unrealistic claims [12:30] – AI training challenges and business demand [17:57] – “Eye of the storm” phase of AI development [24:13] – Testing AI-built financial models [30:52] – Why fixing AI models can take longer than building from scratch [35:15] – Responsibility to challenge misleading AI claims [38:41] – Using instructions to improve AI output [42:59] – Final thoughts on AI, stress, and the future

    48 min
  3. The Rise of Evergreen Funds for Retail Investors to Enter Private Markets with Rafael

    21 APR

    The Rise of Evergreen Funds for Retail Investors to Enter Private Markets with Rafael

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst is joined by Rafael Le Saux to explore the real-world challenges of financial modeling, valuation, and how the role is evolving with new tools like AI. They discuss why strong modeling fundamentals still matter, the risks of poorly structured models, and how professionals can improve their skills in a rapidly changing environment. Rafael Le Saux is a valuation and modeling expert with over 16 years of experience in financial advisory and alternative investments. He leads Valuation and Modeling Services at PwC Deals and Strategy Luxembourg, advising clients on complex valuation matters across multiple asset classes. He has held senior roles at Partners Group and worked across multiple global markets and is actively involved in industry education and research. Expect to Learn Why is the model structure importantCommon mistakes in financial modelingHow to improve Excel and modeling skillsHow AI is used in modeling todayWhy analysis and judgment still matter Here are a few quotes from the episode: |“Those Frankenstein models built from different sources are always the hardest to fix.” - Rafael Le Saux“When you work on a bad model, you quickly understand why structure matters.” - Rafael Le Saux Rafael explains that AI can help speed up work, but it cannot replace thinking. The real value comes from understanding the data and building models that others can trust and use. Follow Rafael: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafael-le-saux/ Website: https://www.pwc.lu/ Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign 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: [00:34] – Rafael Le Saux Background [03:04] – Modeling Horror Story [05:09] – Teaching Financial Modeling [07:15] – AI in Learning & Education [09:50] – Using AI in Daily Work [12:03] – Limits of AI in Analysis [11:53] – Automation vs Analysis [15:13] – Luxembourg as a Financial Hub [17:56] – Regulation & Valuation [20:31] – Advice for Financial Modelers

    22 min
  4. Evergreen Fund Growth and the NAV Valuation Challenges Financial Modelers Face with Rafael

    14 APR

    Evergreen Fund Growth and the NAV Valuation Challenges Financial Modelers Face with Rafael

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Rafael Le Saux to talk about valuation, modeling, and how the field is changing. They dig into real challenges from working on complex models and what happens when things go wrong. The conversation also covers how private markets are evolving and why valuation is getting harder. It’s a practical look at how modeling connects to real decisions in today’s finance world. Rafael Le Saux is a valuation and modeling expert with over 16 years of experience in financial advisory and alternative investments. He leads Valuation and Modeling Services at PwC Luxembourg, working across multiple asset classes. He has also worked at Partners Group and across global markets, including France, Australia, and Chile. Alongside his professional work, he teaches, speaks at industry events, and supports the valuation community. Expect to Learn Why a strong model structure is critical in real-world projectsThe impact of evergreen and semi-liquid funds on valuation riskWhy regulators are increasing scrutiny on valuation practicesHow AI is helping improve workflows but not replacing human judgmentHow to bridge the gap between auditors and investment teams Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Some students are actually afraid of Excel, and you can see that change in just a couple of days.” - Rafael Le Saux“Financial modeling is not just about numbers. It’s about understanding where you are today and where you’re going tomorrow.” - Rafael Le Saux Valuation and modeling are becoming more demanding as markets continue to change. Better tools make the work faster, but they don’t replace the need for clear thinking and solid structure. The people who focus on understanding the “why” behind the numbers, not just the output, will be the ones who stand out. Follow Rafael: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafael-le-saux/ Website: https://www.pwc.lu/ Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign 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: [04:25] – Modeling Horror Story [06:36] – Teaching Modeling [09:11] – AI in Education [11:21] – AI in Daily Work [16:45] – Luxembourg as a Financial Hub [19:48] – Regulation & Valuation [22:55] – Retail Investors & Private Markets [26:59] – Valuation Frequency [30:10] – Auditors vs Investment Teams [33:30] – Excel Tips [35:20] – World Cup Model [37:30] – Rapid Fire [44:00] – Final Advice

    46 min
  5. What Every Finance Student Should Learn Before Graduating with Riley Edwards

    7 APR

    What Every Finance Student Should Learn Before Graduating with Riley Edwards

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Riley Edwards to discuss what it’s like starting out in financial modeling and how those skills carry into real-world financial planning. The conversation covers early mistakes, learning experiences, and the importance of presenting financial information clearly. Riley shares his journey from studying finance to working in wealth management, along with how financial modeling helped him build confidence, improve communication, and handle client conversations more effectively. Riley Edwards is a Financial Planning professional at IG Private Wealth Management, working with Fox-Revett Heslegrave & Associates. He is an Adrian College alumnus and is currently building his career in the financial planning industry. Based in Schomberg, Ontario, Canada, he focuses on helping clients understand their finances and make better decisions through clear analysis. Expect to Learn What early mistakes in financial modeling look like and how to fix themWhy understanding the basics is more important than just building modelsHow financial modeling improves confidence in professional settingsWhy presentation skills matter just as much as technical skillsHow modeling helps handle difficult client conversations Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Learning modeling is easier when you have people around you to share ideas and solve problems together.” - Riley Edwards“Financial modeling is not just about numbers. It’s about understanding where you are today and where you’re going tomorrow.” - Riley Edwards Financial modeling is not just about spreadsheets. It’s about turning numbers into something people can understand and use. As Riley explains, the real value comes from how you present and communicate that information, especially when the conversation is not easy. Follow Riley: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rileyedwards0405/ Company’s Website: https://www.foxrevettassociates.com Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign 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: [02:57] – First Modeling Mistake [05:07] – Getting Started in Financial Modeling [07:29] – Learning Experience & Education [10:04] – Most Rewarding Part of Modeling [12:23] – Importance of Presentation Skills [13:37] – Challenges in Learning Modeling [15:29] – Current Role in Wealth Management [17:38] – Personal Motivation & Background [19:00] – Using Modeling in Client Work [21:18] – AI in Learning & Modeling [25:18] – Excel Tips & Shortcuts [27:28] – Rapid Fire Round

    31 min
  6. Excel Will Never Be the Same Again after AI Copilot with Brian Jones

    31 MAR

    Excel Will Never Be the Same Again after AI Copilot with Brian Jones

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Brian Jones to explore how Excel is evolving in the era of AI and large language models. They discuss how Copilot, agent mode, and AI-driven capabilities are transforming the way users build, analyse, and improve spreadsheets. Brian shares insights into how Excel is becoming more like a developer tool and how AI can automate repetitive tasks while enhancing productivity for both beginners and advanced users. Brian Jones is the Vice President of Microsoft Excel, Forms, and Office Platforms. He has been with Microsoft since 1999, working across multiple productivity products, including Word, Office Forms, and developer extensibility tools. In his current role, Brian leads a global team responsible for Excel and related platforms, driving innovation and integrating AI capabilities like Copilot and agent mode into the product ecosystem. Expect to Learn What “agent mode” means and how it enables automation in spreadsheetsHow AI can help analyse, fix errors, and improve financial modelsWhy Excel still requires strong logic and formula knowledgeHow different AI models impact outputs and workflows in Excel Edge Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Excel really is like a developer tool. When you're writing formulas, you're essentially coding.” – Brian Jones“It’s not just about building from scratch, it’s about improving what you already have.” – Brian Jones Excel is evolving into a more intelligent and interactive platform where AI acts as a powerful assistant rather than a replacement. From fixing broken references to building dashboards and automating workflows, tools like Copilot and agent mode are helping users work faster and smarter Follow Brian: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brijones/ Website: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/archive/blogs/brian_jones/ Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign 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: [00:51] – Introducing Brian Jones [02:50] – Returning to the Excel Team [04:05] – AI & the Future of Excel [06:38] – Customer Questions About Copilot [10:22] – Agent Mode Explained [11:41] – Modeling the community about the Excel agent [13:14] – AI Models & Output Differences [17:16] – Final Thoughts

    17 min
  7. AI Builds Obsession for Financial Modelers to Refocus on Specification Testing and Trust Now

    24 MAR

    AI Builds Obsession for Financial Modelers to Refocus on Specification Testing and Trust Now

    In this episode of The ModSquad, Ian Bennett, Partner at PwC, joins Paul Barnhurst, Giles Male, and Ian Schnoor to discuss the rapid changes happening in financial modeling with the rise of AI. The team explores how AI tools like Claude are revolutionizing the industry, the critical role of strong modeling skills, and the ongoing importance of trust in financial modeling. They also touch on the future of Excel in the age of AI and how professionals can adapt to stay ahead in this rapidly changing landscape. Ian Bennett is a Partner at PwC, leading Deals Modeling in Australia and globally. With over 25 years of experience, Ian has built and reviewed complex models for transactions, infrastructure, finance transformations, and BAU forecasting across Australia and the UK. Ian is a founding member of the Financial Modeling Institute's (FMI) Advisory Council and a member of FMI's Financial Modeling Global Leaders Council. He is also the lead author of PwC’s Global Financial Modeling Guidelines. Expect to Learn How AI tools like Claude are reshaping the financial modeling process.The crucial role of human oversight and strong modeling skills, even with advanced AI.Why AI in financial modeling is seen as an augmentation tool rather than a replacement.How the role of financial modelers is evolving in the age of AI and automation.What the future holds for Excel, and how AI integration is transforming it. Here are a few quotes from the episode: “We all trade in trust. Whether you use AI or not, it’s your name behind it. That’s the most valuable thing in our profession.” - Ian Bennett“Financial modeling is so much more than just building a calculator in a spreadsheet. It’s a profession, it’s a discipline, it’s a career.” - Ian Bennett Claude and other AI tools are significantly enhancing the way financial modeling is done, but as Ian Bennett highlights, trust and deep foundational knowledge remain critical. The future of financial modeling isn’t about AI replacing human modelers; it’s about how professionals can use AI to work smarter, faster, and more accurately. Follow Ian: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/ Follow Giles: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/ Follow Ian Bennett: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianrbennett/ Website - https://www.pwc.com.au/deals/modelling.html In today’s episode: [02:10] – Introducing Ian Bennett [07:00] – Testing Claude in Excel [10:10] – Focusing Beyond the Build Phase [14:00] – How AI is Enhancing Modeling Phases [17:30] – The Importance of Reviewing AI-Generated Models [19:45] – Trusting AI: Augmentation vs. Replacement [25:00] – Rethinking the Role of Financial Modelers [30:00] – The Future of Excel and AI Agent Mode [33:00] – Reinventing the Financial Modeling Profession [36:00] – The Future of Excel in the AI Era [39:30] – Final Thoughts

    43 min
  8. How Microsoft is Making Excel an AI-Powered Platform with Product Manager Brian Jones

    17 MAR

    How Microsoft is Making Excel an AI-Powered Platform with Product Manager Brian Jones

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Brian Jones, Vice-President: Microsoft Excel, Forms, Office Platforms, to discuss how Excel is evolving in the era of AI and large language models. They explore how Copilot, agent mode, and AI-driven features are reshaping how professionals build, analyse, and improve spreadsheets. Brian also shares insights into how AI can assist financial modelers, automate tedious spreadsheet tasks, and help users understand complex workbooks faster. Brian Jones is the Vice-President: Microsoft Excel, Forms. He has worked at Microsoft since 1999 across several productivity platforms, including Word, Office Forms, and developer extensibility tools. In his current role, Brian leads the Excel product team as they integrate AI capabilities like Copilot and agent mode to expand what users can accomplish inside spreadsheets. Expect to Learn How AI and Copilot are changing the Excel user experienceWhat “agent mode” means for automating spreadsheet tasksHow AI can help analyse and improve financial modelsWhy Excel still requires strong modeling and formula knowledgeHow skill sheets and templates can guide AI inside workbooks Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Excel really is like a developer tool. When you're writing formulas, you're essentially coding.” – Brian Jones“One of the strengths of Excel is that the work is visible. You can see the formulas, the logic, and how the result was produced.” – Brian Jones Brian explains how AI is transforming Excel from a traditional spreadsheet tool into a more collaborative environment where users can interact with their data through conversation. Copilot can analyse spreadsheets, suggest formulas, correct errors, and even rebuild broken references automatically. Follow Brian: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brijones/ Website: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/archive/blogs/brian_jones/ Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/ Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign 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: [02:53] – Brian’s Background at Microsoft [03:09] – Returning to the Excel Team [04:24] – The Rise of AI and LLMs in Excel [07:08] – Customer Questions About Copilot [10:39] – AI Rollouts and Product Updates [12:03] – How modelers Are Using Excel AI [17:52] – What Skill Sheets Are and Why They Matter [23:07] – Power Query and Excel Programming Languages [30:51] – Do We Still Need to Learn Formulas [36:07] – Getting the Most Out of Copilot [38:40] – Favorite Excel Shortcut and Functions [41:31] – Where to Follow Brian

    43 min
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About

Financial Modeler's Corner is a podcast where we talk all about the art and science of financial modeling with distinguished Financial Modeler's from around the globe. Financial Modeler's Corner is hosted by Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, a global thought leader in the field of finance.  The Financial Modeler's Corner podcast is brought to you by Financial Modeling Institute. FMI offers the most respected accreditations in financial modeling. 

Information

  • Creator
    Paul Barnhurst AKA The FP&A Guy
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    130
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Financial Modeler's Corner

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