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. The Critical Role of Communication and Standard Definitions in Financial Modeling with John Yeldham

    42 min ago

    The Critical Role of Communication and Standard Definitions in Financial Modeling with John Yeldham

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, Paul Barnhurst sits down with John Yeldham, a leading expert in financial modeling and founder of Lodeum, a global online financial modeling training platform. John shares his experience leading and training teams of financial modelers across corporate and project finance, and discusses the importance of standardizing language, modular model design, and building trust in complex Excel models. John Yeldham has 20 years of experience leading and training financial modeling teams in project and corporate finance, supporting deals and valuations for global funds, energy, and infrastructure, as well as smaller businesses. He created and refined modeling methodologies at BDO UK, Forvis Mazars, and for Lodeum, a global financial modeling training platform launching in 2026. Expect to Learn: Models build trust, not just numbersConnect finance with operations for better decisionsAI is a helpful junior analyst, but human judgment mattersScenario analysis and storytelling are essential in models Here are a few quotes from the episode: "Standardizing language allows AI and people to understand and use models effectively." – John Yeldham"A good modeler breaks down a complex model into functional blocks; this is key to building trust and usability." – John Yeldham John provides actionable strategies for financial modelers to improve clarity, scalability, and trust in their work while leveraging advanced Excel techniques and modular design principles. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their modeling skills and build reusable frameworks for complex financial analyses. Follow John: Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lodeum/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnyeldham/ Follow Financial Modeler's Corner: LinkedIn: 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 get 15% off using the code “Podcast” at https://bit.ly/497oAqW In Today’s Episode: [00:00] – Trailer [02:28] – Worst Model Horror Story [05:20] – Transition to Own Business & Lodeum [08:51] – Communication & Language Challenges in Modeling [16:03] – Standardizing Language & AI Integration [24:25] – Lambda Functions & Dynamic Arrays in Excel [30:19] – Online Modeling Training Advantages [36:43] – Favorite Excel Shortcuts [38:22] – Most Challenging or Fun Spreadsheet Created [39:42] – Rapid Fire: Modeling Opinions [47:16] – Advice for Becoming a Better Modeler [49:31] – How to Connect & Learn More

    51 min
  2. How Founders Mistake Models Only for Fundraising and What They Should Do With Ilyas Anis

    2 Jun

    How Founders Mistake Models Only for Fundraising and What They Should Do With Ilyas Anis

    Paul Barnhurst speaks with Ilyas Anis, CFO and Chartered Financial Modeler, about using financial models to build stakeholder confidence, drive operational decisions, and tell a clear business story. Ilyas shares insights on integrating AI, avoiding common modeling pitfalls, and the importance of scenario analysis and three-statement models. Ilyas Anis is Finance Lead at Turning Point Brands Canada and Founder of IMnS Associates. He has 15+ years of experience in financial modeling, valuation, and governance across multiple industries. An FCA, CPA, AFM, and FMVA®, he is also a board advisor and AI enthusiast. Expect to Learn Models build trust, not just numbersConnect finance with operations for better decisionsAI is a helpful junior analyst, but human judgment mattersScenario analysis and storytelling are essential in models Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Stakeholders don’t pay you for getting the right thing. They pay for the confidence.” – Ilyas Anis“Financial models should open every Monday morning, they shouldn’t die after fundraising.” – Ilyas Anis Ilyas Anis highlights how financial models go beyond numbers to build trust, enable strategic decisions, and communicate a clear business story. He emphasizes the role of AI as a supportive tool, the importance of connecting finance with operations, and practical strategies for building models that deliver actionable insights for stakeholders. Follow Ilyas: Website: https://imnsassociates.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilyasanis/ 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] – Trailer [02:35] – Early Career Horror Stories [04:28] – Storytelling in Models [09:52] – Fundraising vs Operational Models [12:39] – Connecting Finance & Operations [18:36] – Revenue Models as Foundation [25:29] – AI in Modeling [27:38] – Automating Dashboards [34:30] – Rapid-Fire Modeling Best Practices [42:03] – Final Advice

    45 min
  3. The Mistakes in Structure and Data Thinking That Break Models with Mark Proctor

    26 May

    The Mistakes in Structure and Data Thinking That Break Models with Mark Proctor

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) is joined by guest Mark Proctor. Together, they discuss the intricacies of financial modeling and data analysis, with a focus on building efficient models and leveraging automation in Excel. Mark shares his deep expertise on why structure is key, how to automate tedious tasks, and how Excel continues to evolve to meet the demands of modern financial professionals. Mark Proctor is a seasoned financial professional with a background in accounting and finance, an Excel MVP, and the founder of Excel Off The Grid, a platform dedicated to improving efficiency and effectiveness in Excel. With decades of experience, Mark's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to optimize their use of Excel for financial modeling and beyond. He has helped countless professionals streamline their work through better data structure and automation techniques. Expect to Learn Financial modeling vs. data analysisAutomation in Excel with Power Query & PivotWhy VLOOKUP is outdated and modern alternativesBuilding flexible, stakeholder-friendly modelsReducing manual and repetitive Excel tasks Here are a few quotes from Mark Proctor: "Hard-coding is the enemy of a flexible financial model. Once you start hard-coding, you lose the ability to see what's really driving the model." - Mark Proctor"One of the key takeaways from bad models is that manual adjustments should always be documented and trackable." - Mark Proctor As Excel continues to evolve with powerful features like dynamic arrays and advanced automation, the tools discussed in this episode are essential for anyone looking to keep pace with the future of financial modeling. Mark’s emphasis on mastering the basics and thinking structurally will help you work faster and more effectively. Follow Mark: Website - https://exceloffthegrid.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/markstephenproctor/ 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] - Trailer [01:54] - Financial Modeling Horror Stories [04:55] - Lessons from Bad Models [06:28] - Mark's Career Journey and Background [12:59] - Data Analysis vs. Financial Modeling [19:17] - Excel as a Data Analysis Tool: Key Innovations [22:55] - Automation in Excel and Practical Tips [33:59] - The Importance of Mastering Excel Basics [44:19] - Wrap-Up and Closing Remarks

    50 min
  4. AI in Investment Banking for Analysts to Adapt as Workflows Change but Jobs Remain – Matan

    19 May

    AI in Investment Banking for Analysts to Adapt as Workflows Change but Jobs Remain – Matan

    Paul Barnhurst speaks with Matan Feldman, Founder and CEO of Wall Street Prep. Matan shares his insights from his career in investment banking and financial modeling, discussing how AI is transforming the investment banking landscape, its impact on financial modeling, and the future of financial modeling education. He reflects on his journey founding Wall Street Prep and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Matan Feldman is the Founder and CEO of Wall Street Prep, where he leads business development, course creation, and training programs for clients such as Morgan Stanley, J.P. Morgan, The Wharton School, and many others. Before founding Wall Street Prep, Matan worked at Chase Manhattan Bank and J.P. Morgan in investment banking and equity research. Expect to Learn: How AI is changing financial modeling and banking workflowsThe evolving role of financial modelers in an AI-driven worldHow AI speeds up repetitive tasks, letting analysts focus on higher-level judgmentWhy are core financial modeling skills still essential despite AI advancements? Here are a few quotes from the episode: "AI is already helping junior analysts by taking over repetitive tasks, but we're just scratching the surface.""AI has the potential to completely reshape how investment banks operate, but it's still in its early stages." Matan Feldman highlights how AI is revolutionizing investment banking and financial modeling, improving efficiency and allowing analysts to focus on higher-level tasks. While AI tools are reshaping workflows, Matan stresses that core financial modeling skills and human judgment remain essential in this evolving industry. Follow Matan: Website: https://www.wallstreetprep.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matanfeldman/ 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: [05:55] – AI in Banking [07:00] – AI’s Banking Impact [10:00] – Future of Modeling [12:00] – Role of Modelers [14:00] – AI’s Opportunities [15:00] – AI in Advisory [17:00] – Banking’s Future with AI [19:00] – Analyst’s Future [20:00] – AI’s Effect on Banking [22:00] – AI and Careers

    19 min
  5. The Investment Banking Job Hasn't Changed Since 1990. AI Is Changing That with Wall Street Prep CEO Matan Feldman

    12 May

    The Investment Banking Job Hasn't Changed Since 1990. AI Is Changing That with Wall Street Prep CEO Matan Feldman

    Paul Barnhurst speaks with Matan Feldman, Founder and CEO of Wall Street Prep. Matan shares insights from his career in investment banking and financial modeling, discussing the future of AI in the industry, its impact on investment banking roles, and how it will reshape financial modeling education. He also reflects on his journey founding Wall Street Prep and the lessons he's learned along the way. Matan Feldman is the Founder and CEO of Wall Street Prep, where he leads business development, course creation, and training programs for clients such as Morgan Stanley, J.P. Morgan, The Wharton School, and many others. Before founding Wall Street Prep, Matan worked at Chase Manhattan Bank and J.P.Morgan in investment banking and equity research. Expect to Learn How AI is transforming financial modeling and investment banking workflows.The evolving role of financial modelers in an AI-driven world.How AI accelerates repetitive tasks, enabling analysts to focus on higher-level judgment.Why foundational financial modeling skills remain crucial despite AI advancements. Here are a few quotes from the episode: "A model can either be the most powerful tool or the most frustrating one." – Matan Feldman"Judgment and interpretation will always remain important." – Matan Feldman Matan Feldman shared valuable insights into the evolving role of AI in financial modeling and investment banking. He emphasized the growing importance of business judgment and foundational skills as AI tools continue to reshape the industry. Matan's journey from investment banking to founding Wall Street Prep highlights the ongoing need for both technical expertise and strategic thinking in financial modeling Follow Matan: Website: https://www.wallstreetprep.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matanfeldman/ 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 [02:27] – Matan’s Modeling Nightmare [05:07] – The Journey of Wall Street Prep [08:21] – AI in Investment Banking [14:06] – The Future of Modeling and Automation [22:16] – Opportunities and Concerns in AI [29:48] – AI’s Role in Teaching Financial Modeling [36:02] – Rapid Fire Questions

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

    5 May

    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
  7. 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
  8. 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
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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
    135
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Financial Modeler's Corner

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