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. We Tested Claude Opus 4.6 and the Results were Super Impressive

    2 DAYS AGO

    We Tested Claude Opus 4.6 and the Results were Super Impressive

    In this episode of The ModSquad, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male put Claude 4.6 to the test on real financial modeling accreditation cases. From three-statement forecasts to complex debt sculpting scenarios, the team examines just how far AI tools have come. The results are impressive, but not flawless. The discussion explores what this leap forward means for finance professionals and whether modeling is truly entering a new AI-assisted era. Ian Schnoor is Executive Director of the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the global accreditation body for financial modeling professionals. He brings extensive experience in modeling, training, and industry standards. Giles Male is Co-Founder of Full Stack Modeller and a two-time Microsoft MVP. He specializes in Excel, financial modeling systems, and practical AI implementation. Expect to Learn How Claude 4.6 performs on real financial modeling accreditation casesWhere AI tools still make subtle but significant modeling errorsThe difference between automation and augmentation in AI usageWhy strong modeling fundamentals remain essentialPractical ways to begin integrating AI into your modeling workflow Here are a few quotes from the episode: “I’m not even doing this from a testing perspective now. I’m just using it because it’s adding so much value.” – Giles Male“Modeling is just as much about the process as it is about the end result.” – Ian Schnoor Claude 4.6 marks a significant step forward in AI-assisted financial modeling, handling complex builds faster than ever before. However, subtle errors still highlight the need for strong technical knowledge and human oversight. The future of modeling isn’t replacement, it’s skilled professionals using AI to work smarter and deliver greater value. Follow Ian: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/ Follow Giles Male: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/ In today’s episode: [04:06] – Testing Claude [11:14] – Augmentation vs. Automation in Modeling [18:14] – The Value of Documentation in Modeling [28:43] – Debt Modeling with AI [33:20] – Transition from Manual to AI-Enhanced Modeling [38:16] – Testing with New Tools [41:24] – Debt and Equity Modeling with AI [46:45] – Claude's Progress & Areas for Improvement [57:33] – Final Thoughts

    1 hr
  2. AI in Finance for Modelers to Succeed by Mastering the Fundamentals with Chris Reilly

    17 FEB

    AI in Finance for Modelers to Succeed by Mastering the Fundamentals with Chris Reilly

    In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Chris Reilly, founder of Financial Modeling Education, for an insightful discussion on the importance of mastering financial modeling fundamentals in the age of AI. Chris shares his perspective on how AI is transforming the modeling industry, why understanding the basics is more important than ever, and how dynamic arrays are changing the modeling landscape. Chris Reilly is a financial modeling expert with over 91,000 students trained globally. He has a diverse background, having worked in private equity and FP&A, and has developed a range of training programs through Wall Street Prep, Wharton, LinkedIn Learning, and his own courses. Chris emphasizes that strong foundational knowledge in finance and accounting is crucial to leveraging AI and new technologies effectively. Expect to Learn Why mastering the fundamentals of financial modeling is essential in an AI-driven worldHow Chris integrates AI tools to enhance his modeling workThe role of dynamic arrays in streamlining financial modelsThe balance between technical skills and business decision-makingInsights on why complex models aren't always better Here are a few quotes from the episode: “AI is a magnifier. If you know what you're doing, it helps you get more done. If not, it makes problems worse.” - Chris Reilly“The real goal of any model is to help the business understand what to do next, not just to show off technical skills.” - Chris Reilly Chris highlights how AI can help with dynamic arrays and improve model efficiency, but stresses that it should never replace the need for a strong understanding of financial fundamentals. His focus is on helping modelers leverage the right technology without bypassing essential knowledge. Follow Chris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-reilly-mission-capital/ Homepage: https://www.financialmodelingeducation.com/ Email list: https://financialmodelingeducator.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’. Visita href="http://www.fminstitute.com/podcast"

    16 min
  3. Financial Modelers Must Master the Fundamentals Before Trusting AI with Chris Reilly

    10 FEB

    Financial Modelers Must Master the Fundamentals Before Trusting AI with Chris Reilly

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes back Chris Reilly for a deep and practical conversation on financial modeling fundamentals in the age of AI. Chris shares why mastering the basics still matters more than ever, how AI is changing modeling workflows in reality (not hype), and where automation genuinely adds value versus where human judgment is still essential. Chris Reilly is a former private equity professional and financial modeling expert with experience spanning restructuring, FP&A, treasury, and middle market private equity. He began his career at FTI Consulting during the financial crisis, working on major bankruptcies, including Lehman Brothers, before moving to Hilton Worldwide and later into private equity. Chris is the founder of Financial Modeling Education, where he has trained more than 90,000 professionals worldwide, teaching real-life models used to acquire and manage private equity-backed businesses. Expect to Learn Why financial modeling fundamentals matter more than ever in an AI-driven worldHow Chris actually uses AI in real client models versus online hypeWhy simple, well-built models outperform overly complex onesHow to balance technical modeling skills with business decision-making Here are a few quotes from the episode: “AI is a great accelerator if you already understand the fundamentals. If you don’t, it just magnifies the problem.” - Chris Reilly“There’s a missing middle right now where people are skipping the fundamentals and jumping straight to the results.” - Chris Reilly Chris emphasizes that while AI and automation can improve efficiency, they do not replace the need for strong accounting knowledge, modeling fundamentals, and business understanding. He explains that the best modelers focus less on tools and functions and more on clarity, reliability, and helping decision makers understand what to do next. Follow Chris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-reilly-mission-capital/ Homepage: https://www.financialmodelingeducation.com/ Email list: https://financialmodelingeducator.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’....

    40 min
  4. The Excel Techniques for Modelers to Build Real World-Business Forecasts - Luke Phillips

    3 FEB

    The Excel Techniques for Modelers to Build Real World-Business Forecasts - Luke Phillips

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Luke Phillips, Senior Business Analyst at Access Analytic. Luke shares how he transitioned from Division I basketball to financial modeling, and how he helps clients solve complex budgeting and reporting problems using Solver, Excel, and Power BI. Luke Phillips is a chartered financial modeler and the Senior Business Analyst at Access Analytic. He works with clients across mining, oil and gas, manufacturing, and professional services to streamline budgeting and reporting through Solver and Excel. Luke holds a BBA in Finance from the University of Louisiana at Monroe, where he also played Division I basketball. Expect to Learn How a bad college project helped kickstart Luke’s modeling careerWhat Solver is and how it supports complex planning and reportingTips for simplifying models without losing valueThe role of communication in building useful modelsLuke’s take on AI and dynamic arrays in Excel Here are a few quotes from the episode: “We're not hiring you for your technical ability, we're hiring you for your potential.” – Luke“I love spreadsheets, the way you can pull complex calculations together and form a view of a company.” – Luke Luke Phillips brings a grounded, real-world perspective to financial modeling, shaped by both professional experience and athletic discipline. His approach blends technical skill with a clear focus on communication and usability. Whether solving client challenges with Solver or exploring new Excel features, Luke keeps modeling practical and purpose-driven. Follow Luke: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-phillips-75859013a/ Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/access-analytic/ 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: [02:09] - Life in Australia & Background [03:16] - First Model Mistake &...

    44 min
  5. The Storytelling Techniques for Financial Modelers to Impress Investors with Karishma Karishma Ramnawaj

    27 JAN

    The Storytelling Techniques for Financial Modelers to Impress Investors with Karishma Karishma Ramnawaj

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Karishma Ramnawaj, a financial modeler based in Mauritius, to talk about her journey in financial modelling, building and reviewing models, and the lessons she’s learned from both success and failure. Karishma shares her experience of learning on the job, why understanding the end user is critical, and how she balances practical standards with flexibility. Karishma is a Certified Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) and FMVA® professional, currently working as a Financial Modeler Associate at Hawkins Eberdal Ltd in Mauritius. With a strong foundation in both project and corporate finance, Karishma specializes in building decision-ready financial models that support capital raising, risk evaluation, and business growth. Expect to Learn Why using someone else’s model as a template can be riskyThe importance of understanding and communicating key assumptionsHow to tailor models for investors and third-party usersWhat it’s like to fail, and then pass, the AFM examThe value of applying both corporate and project finance in modelling Here are a few quotes from the episode: “If you're going to use someone else's model, make sure you understand everything inside it.” – Karishma“It's not just about Excel. It's about who's using the model and what story you're telling with it.” – Karishma Karishma's story is a great example of growth through practice, persistence, and passion for financial modeling. Her focus on clarity, flexibility, and end-user needs brings valuable perspective to the modelling process. From overcoming early challenges to passing the AFM exam, she shows the importance of continuous improvement. Follow Karishma: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karishma-ramnawaj/ 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: [01:56] - Guest Intro [04:51] - Journey into Modelling [06:00] - Why She Loves Modelling [08:37] - Storytelling with Numbers [10:56] - Key...

    35 min
  6. How Excel AI Agents Actually Work for Financial Modelers to Understand LLMs & Tools with Tim Jacks

    20 JAN

    How Excel AI Agents Actually Work for Financial Modelers to Understand LLMs & Tools with Tim Jacks

    In this episode of The ModSquad, hosts Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male welcome Tim Jacks, founder of Taglo, for an insightful discussion on the integration of AI in financial modeling. Tim’s expertise bridges the worlds of financial modeling and AI, and in this episode, he shares his journey and discusses how AI is reshaping the financial modeling landscape. Tim Jacks is the founder of Taglo, a company dedicated to improving financial modeling with AI technology. His career journey spans financial consulting and software development, including building financial modeling tools. Over time, Tim's interest in artificial intelligence grew, and he delved into how AI, particularly Large Language Models (LLMs), could be used to enhance financial modeling processes. Expect to Learn How AI is revolutionizing financial modeling and the specific ways it’s being used today.The technical components behind AI agents and how they differ from simple chatbots.The importance of context and system prompts when working with LLMs in financial tasks.Insights into the memory limitations of LLMs and how agents work around this challenge. Here are a few quotes from the episode: "If you're using AI for Excel modeling, you need to remind it to follow good financial modeling principles, like the FAST Standard." – Tim Jacks"The beauty of LLMs is that you can go back and change the conversation, they're stateless, so it's like resetting the clock." – Tim Jacks Tim Jacks provided valuable insights into the integration of AI in financial modeling, particularly how LLMs and agents are transforming workflows. While AI can significantly enhance efficiency, human expertise remains essential for applying financial modeling principles. Understanding the technical workings of these tools helps users leverage them effectively. The future of financial modeling will be human-led, AI-assisted. Follow Tim: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timjacks/ Follow Ian: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/ Follow Giles Male: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/ In today’s episode: [00:05] - Intro & Hosts [01:33] - Guest Introduction: Tim Jacks [02:42] - Tim's Background in Modelling & AI [04:16] - What Are LLMs Really? [09:55] - ChatGPT vs. LLMs Explained [12:09] - LLMs Have No Memory [15:02] - How Tools Add Context to AI [19:35] - What Is an AI Agent? [22:35] - How Excel Agents Work [30:08] - Demo: Tools in Action [35:03] - Defining an Agent: LLM + Tools + Prompts [38:49] - Key Takeaway for Modellers

    43 min
  7. Financial Modeling for Corporate Finance Teams to Unlock Business Without Templates - Carolina Lago

    13 JAN

    Financial Modeling for Corporate Finance Teams to Unlock Business Without Templates - Carolina Lago

    In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Carolina Lago, a seasoned FP&A professional, to discuss how financial modelers can transform data into actionable insights while avoiding common modeling pitfalls. Together, they explore best practices in financial modeling, the dangers of hard-coded models, and why structure, flexibility, and clear purpose are essential for effective decision-making. Carolina also shares lessons from her international career, including her experience supporting a major IPO and leading global software implementations. Carolina Lago is an FP&A professional with over 15 years of international experience across multiple industries. She has played key roles in high-impact projects, including IPO preparation and enterprise-wide financial system implementations. Carolina is also the creator of the TACTIC framework, which helps financial professionals build models that are structured, insightful, and decision-focused. Expect to Learn Why hard-coded models are a major risk to accuracy and flexibilityHow to turn raw data into insights that drive real business decisionsThe importance of starting every model with a clear question or goalHow the TACTIC framework improves structure and clarity in modelingWhy strong modeling skills matter at every career stage Here are a few quotes from the episode: “I inherited one, and I had to try to change it. I spent probably a couple of weeks trying to make it better, and I couldn't. It was just too full of hardcoded numbers and no design at all.” – Carolina Lago“Data is only useful if it can be transformed into actionable insights.” – Carolina Lago Follow Carolina: LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-carolinalago/ Website – https://www.tacticfinancial.com In today’s episode: [00:00] - Trailer [00:50] - Guest Introduction [01:00] - Horrifying Financial Models [02:00] - Early Career Modeling Mistakes [03:10] - Carolina’s Global Career Journey [05:00] - Turning Data into Actionable Insights [07:30] - Introduction to the TACTIC Framework [09:50] - Learning Resources & Community Engagement [20:00] - Certifications and Continuing Education [22:40] - Rapid-Fire Round [24:50] - Advice for Aspiring Financial Modelers [26:00] - How to Connect and Learn More

    43 min
  8. What 2025 Taught Us About Excel AI and Where Financial Modeling Is Heading in 2026

    6 JAN

    What 2025 Taught Us About Excel AI and Where Financial Modeling Is Heading in 2026

    In this special episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst recaps an exciting 2025 and outlines what's ahead for 2026. Paul reflects on the top five most downloaded episodes of the year, shares insights from key guests, and highlights major developments in financial modeling, including Excel's newest features and the growing role of AI. Expect to Learn Key trends in Excel and financial modeling from 2025How AI is changing the way models are built, tested, and auditedThe importance of simplicity, documentation, and user involvement in model designWhy communication and business understanding are becoming essential skills for modelers Here are a few quotes from the episode: “Complexity can backfire by making you indispensable in ways that hurt your career growth.” – Paul Barnhurst“AI is a magnifier, it makes good modelers better and highlights weaknesses in those without a solid foundation.” – Paul Barnhurst In today’s episode: [02:01] – Mod Squad Launch [03:02] – AI and Modeling [03:45] – Excel Feature Highlights [06:28] – Excel Championship Recap [10:12] – AI in Financial Modeling [12:54] – Time-Saving Modeling Tips [16:02] – Three-Statement Modeling [17:38] – Strategic Thinking for Modelers [20:30] – Final Thoughts and Certification Offer

    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
    120
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Financial Modeler's Corner

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