FinPod

In this episode of Careers in Finance on FinPod, we sit down with Carolina Lago, who has extensive experience in financial planning and analysis (FP&A) and corporate finance. Carolina shares her career journey from studying business to becoming a leader in FP&A, emphasizing how the role has evolved from mere financial planning to a strategic focus on guiding companies' futures. She discusses her participation in an IPO, highlighting the invaluable learning opportunity it provided.Carolina is committed to lifelong learning, pursuing certifications like the FMVA, and building Tactic, where she develops corporate training programs for finance teams. She advises young professionals to actively seek opportunities, bring innovative solutions, and align their work with their interests to advance their careers. Tune in for insights on career growth and the evolving landscape of corporate finance roles.

In this episode of What’s New at CFI on FinPod, we discuss the newly refreshed course, "Math for Finance Professionals," which covers essential concepts like simple and compound interest, discounted cash flows, and statistical measures using Excel. This course equips finance professionals with the foundational skills necessary for a variety of roles in finance & banking. Tune in to learn more about the new course and its benefits for finance professionals seeking careers in investment banking, capital markets, risk management, investment and wealth management, finance, and accounting.

In this episode of Careers in Finance on FinPod, we sit down with Brian Egger, Global Head of Financial Modeling at Bloomberg LP. Brian brings a wealth of experience from his time at Goldman Sachs and Bloomberg, where he has developed and led the Bloomberg Interactive Calculator financial modeling platform. Brian talks about the complexities of equity research, such as his analysis on Las Vegas airline service capacity in the late 1990s, which challenged conventional thinking and demonstrated the critical interplay between demand and airline service. He also discusses the importance of modern data analytics, highlighting the role of coding and tools like Bloomberg Query Language (BQL) in enhancing financial modeling.Listeners will learn about the essential skills for equity research, including meticulous attention to detail, the ability to synthesize data into clear viewpoints, and effective communication tailored to different audiences. Tune in to learn from his expertise and gain insights into equity research and financial modeling.

This episode of FinPod covers understanding bank financial statements and analysis. We highlight the unique aspects of bank financial statements compared to typical company statements, plus the significance of the balance sheet and the importance of understanding interest income and expenses. You'll learn about specific ratio calculations used in banking and how regulatory capital requirements, like Basel III guidelines, impact banks. The episode also discusses the practical applications of using real-world data for hands-on learning. Listen in for practical tips on mastering bank financial analysis.

In this episode of FinPod, we discuss how to get started with building a financial model. We address common issues beginners face – like too quickly relying on Excel – and provide tips to streamline the model-building process. Emphasizing the importance of design, we cover the tangible benefits of reverse-engineering financial modeling problems and working backwards from the outputs. Get advice on how to create efficient, effective models. Tune in to get inspired when starting a financial model.

In this episode of FinPod, we speak with Chris Ortega, the CEO of Fresh FP&A. Chris shares his journey from a marketing major in college to a seasoned finance executive, eventually founding Fresh FP&A. Chris emphasizes the evolving role of technology in finance, highlighting how tools like RPA, predictive analytics, and machine learning can enhance the efficiency value of finance teams. Listen in to gain valuable insights into CFO responsibilities and the essential skills needed to succeed in finance.

In this episode of FinPod, we discuss our course for financial planners, advisors, and wealth managers on developing high-impact financial plans. We cover how integrating financial plans into a wealth management practice adds value for clients and advisors. We emphasize best practices for effective goal-setting and how structured financial plans can realize your clients’ objectives. Tune in to gain insights and a deeper understanding of how the core components of a financial plan add value for your clients.

In this episode of the CFI Member Spotlight podcast, we feature Mateus Hamdan, an accomplished project controller at Field Aviation. Mateus shares his journey from Brazil to Canada, discussing his experience across a range of industries such as mining, education, shipbuilding, and aviation. He furthered his career by earning the FMVA certification from CFI, which equipped him with advanced financial modeling and valuation skills. This certification played a crucial role in progressing his career, allowing him to secure roles in shipbuilding and aviation industries. Mateus also shares valuable advice for aspiring finance professionals, emphasizing continuous learning, building strong relationships, and simplifying complex tasks. Tune in to hear Mateus Hamdan's inspiring story and gain practical tips for excelling in the finance industry.

In this episode of FinPod, we discuss the recently released Market Risk Fundamentals course with insights from the Vice President of Content at CFI. We provide an in-depth look at key processes, such as measuring market risk through the standard deviation of returns and calculating value at risk (VAR). Listeners will learn how these concepts are put to practice in the real world, with examples from major banks and their daily operations to manage market risk exposure.We also preface the history of VAR, tracing its origins from the late 1980s with Risk Metrics and its adoption by industry giants like JP Morgan. We explore why the financial industry and regulators transitioned from traditional volatility measures to VAR, highlighting its robustness and effectiveness in quantifying market risk.Additionally, the episode previews the upcoming specialization in Risk Management at CFI, designed to equip finance professionals with the skills needed to excel in the field. Tune in to learn more about market risk and the exciting career opportunities it presents.

In this episode of FinPod, we talk with Avia Yudalevich, the accomplished CFO and head of supply chain at Intrinsic. Avia shares her journey from financial analyst to executive leader, highlighting her deep understanding of both financial data and broader business strategies. With a solid foundation in economics and finance, Avia is a credible voice in the finance industry.She discusses her career path, including her transition from large organizations to startups, and offers insights into managing teams of all sizes and overcoming challenges in resource-limited environments. Avia provides practical advice for aspiring finance professionals, stressing the importance of mentorship and proactive career advancement. She highlights key skills, including strategic thinking, collaboration, and understanding and influencing business operations.Avia’s views on effective financial leadership and her focus on continuous learning and adaptation offer valuable lessons for professionals at any career stage. Tune in to gain actionable advice and learn from Avia Yudalevich’s extensive experience in navigating a successful career in finance.

In this episode of FinPod, we discuss a recently published course on ESG risk management. We explain the evolution of ESG from environmental health and safety to corporate sustainability and social responsibility, emphasizing its current role as a management framework for addressing environmental, societal, and governance risks. We cover fundamental concepts of ESG, headline risks, and examples of companies that have managed these risks well or poorly. We also touch on the growing importance of ESG in investment decisions and the rise of ESG auditing. This episode offers advice for aspiring professionals looking to enter the ESG field and underscores that ESG is a lasting, essential aspect of business management. Tune in for valuable insights from a leading expert on ESG risk management.

In this episode, we welcome Onyedika Nwoji, who has completed two CFI certifications. Onyedika shares his journey from working as a monitoring and evaluation analyst at an NGO to becoming a skilled data analyst. He discusses his decision to focus on upskilling with CFI and the valuable knowledge he gained from the FMVA and BIDA programs. Onyedika explains how the courses enhanced his Excel skills and introduced him to key data analytics concepts like Power Query, Power Pivot, Power BI, and Tableau. He also discusses his current role as a customer experience research analyst at Sterling Bank and how his CFI certifications helped him secure the position. Additionally, Onyedika shares his future ambitions, including training others in data analysis and pursuing consultancy work. Tune in to hear his inspiring story and insights on continuous learning.

In this episode, we talk with our Chief Content Officer about the new "Accounting for Business Combinations and Other Equity Investments" course.Designed to meet the growing demand for accounting knowledge for finance professionals we cover topics including full consolidation for majority ownership, equity method accounting for significant influence, and fair value accounting for smaller stakes. The episode also covers differences between IFRS and US GAAP, with practical insights on using Excel for consolidations. This technical course is aimed at professionals who need to develop This concise, two-hour course aims to provide learners with the skills needed to analyze equity investments in financial statements confidently. Listen in for more details!

In this episode, we chat with Glenn Hopper, an instructor at both Duke University and CFI, author and CFO. Glenn’s book, “Deep Finance: Corporate Finance in the Information Age,” solidified his position as a thought leader on the impact of AI on finance roles. In our conversation, Glenn shares his unconventional path to finance, starting as a journalist in the Navy, transitioning to marketing, and ultimately becoming a successful CFO working in a variety of organizations. He shares insights on his career progression, emphasizing the importance of tech and data in his finance roles. We discuss his work in generative AI, its impact on finance, and the future of AI in FP&A. Glenn also offers advice for aspiring finance professionals, stressing the need to understand basic accounting and data science. Tune in for valuable insights from a seasoned finance leader!

In this episode of FinPod, join us for a conversation with CFI FMVA holder Landon Cortenbach as he shares his professional journey from aspiring sports agent to experienced CFO.Landon's career trajectory spans from public accounting to pivotal roles at renowned companies like Beats by Dre and Magic Leap. He discusses the crucial skills that contributed to his success, his problem-solving approach, and how he navigates the evolving landscape of business intelligence and AI in finance. Don't miss this episode, packed with valuable insights and practical advice for aspiring finance leaders, including the skills and characteristics that are required for today’s modern CFOs.

In this episode of FinPod, we dive into the intricacies of debt and capital expenditure (CAPEX) modeling in financial planning and analysis (FP&A). Follow along as Duncan shares insights on modeling debt accurately, emphasizing the importance of setting up a lender of last resort and avoiding hard caps on revolving credit lines.Explore the nuances of forecasting CAPEX and its integration into FP&A models, uncovering the connections between debt schedules and cash flow statements. Duncan highlights the challenges of modeling debt that flows into future financial statements, offering practical tips for maintaining model integrity.Whether you're a seasoned financial analyst or a newcomer to FP&A, this episode provides valuable guidance for mastering debt and CAPEX modeling while structuring FP&A models for optimal efficiency and accuracy.

In this special episode of the CFI Member Spotlight, host Anna Talerico sits down with finance professional Josh McLean, a Finance Director at Nike and currently participating in their innovative Finance Leadership Rotational Program. Anna explores Josh's high-impact career, including his roles as an author, board member, mentor, startup advisor, and investor. His dedication to lifelong learning and professional development is demonstrated by his incredible achievement of all three levels of the CFA and his FMVA from CFI.Josh shares his inspiring journey from overcoming significant challenges in high school and college to achieving professional success, where he blends his finance expertise with a passion for personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of intentionality, balancing professional and personal life, and his philosophy of continuous improvement. This episode provides inspiration for anyone pursuing a fulfilling career in finance and professional development. If you're seeking motivation to stay committed to your professional and personal goals, this is a must-listen.

Join us in the latest episode of the "What's New at CFI" podcast as we discuss artificial intelligence and how it can help users to manage complex formulas in Excel. In this discussion, we shed light on the increasing demand for AI integration in financial analysis. We discuss practical examples of using AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to simplify and optimize Excel formulas. Learn how these AI models can break down complex formulas, suggest more efficient alternatives to nested IF statements, and even offer step-by-step solutions for your tasks. Discover the advantages of the paid version of ChatGPT and unlock the secrets to supercharging your AI queries with expert techniques!Tune in for practical tips and encouragement to get started with AI in Excel. Whether you're a novice or an advanced user, there's something for everyone in this insightful conversation.

In this episode of FinPod, we discuss FP&A for new analysts with expert Carl Seidman. Carl has over 20 years of experience in management consulting and FP&A advisory. In this conversation, he highlights the growing demand for FP&A in Fortune 500 companies and the shift towards proactive finance roles.Carl addresses how to enter the FP&A field without a specialized degree, emphasizing skill development and transitioning from general finance backgrounds. He also shares the importance of critical thinking, communication skills, and understanding of business dynamics for a successful career in FP&A.Carl also shares his thoughts on the role of AI in FP&A, and provides valuable advice for new analysts, focusing on continuous learning, mastering technical skills, and developing non-technical abilities. This episode offers lots of career advice for aspiring FP&A professionals!

In this episode of FinPod, co-founder Scott Powell and colleague Asim Khan speak with Danielle Stein Fairhurst, a renowned financial modeler, author, and Microsoft MVP. She shares her journey into financial modeling, driven by her love for finance and Excel, and shares her modeling core concepts..Danielle discusses common mistakes modelers make, the importance of simplicity, and her contributions to the Excel community, including writing books and organizing meetups. For young professionals, she emphasizes the importance of technical skills and staying current with new tools. Join the conversation to gain insights into financial modeling and the evolving landscape of Excel.

Join us in the latest episode of the "What's New at CFI" podcast as we delve into the intricacies of financial planning and analysis, specifically focusing on the inclusion of contractors in financial models in today's evolving job market landscape. We highlight key differences between forecasting for employees and contractors, emphasizing the importance of understanding cash flow timing nuances. With practical examples and considerations, we explore the flexibility of financial models, offering valuable insights for finance professionals. Tune in for an engaging discussion on contractor analysis and its role in modern financial planning strategies.

In this episode of FinPod, hosts Asim Khan and Ryan Spendelow dive deep into the world of banking regulations. Join them as they discuss the intricacies of Basel III and its significance in risk management. Unravel the historical context behind the Basel Accords and understand how Basel III emerged as a response to the 2008 global financial crisis.Asim and Ryan discuss the critical differences between Basel II and Basel III, from strengthened capital requirements to the introduction of liquidity ratios. Tune in to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in an ever-changing regulatory environment. Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and enhance your understanding of Basel III and its implications for the future of banking

In this episode of FinPod, host Anna Talerico chats with Vijay Maharaj, CFI's Director of FP&A, to discuss his career journey and what it's like to work in FP&A. Discover how Vijay’s path through economics led him to a career in financial planning and analysis. Get a glimpse into a day in the life of a Director of FP&A, including the balancing act of data management, forecasting, and partnering with other business units. Plus, handling the everyday fire drills that come with the role.Vijay shares his approach to objective analysis, building trust with colleagues, and the importance of being a lifelong learner. He provides valuable advice for aspiring FP&A professionals on essential skills and the mindset needed to excel in this growing field. Don't miss this engaging episode full of career insights and practical tips!

In this episode of FinPod, host Asim Khan sits down to discuss data visualization with Sebastian Taylor.They cover best practices for creating effective visual representations of data, from choosing the right charts to crafting impactful stories. To communicate data effectively, learn the importance of understanding your audience and focusing on key messages. Sebastian shares valuable tips on designing dashboards, using color effectively, and avoiding common mistakes in data visualization. Whether you're a data analyst or simply interested in data storytelling, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge to help you improve your data visualization skills. Tune in for charts, graphs, and dashboards!

In this episode of FinPod, Asim Khan & Glenn Hopper talk about AI-enhanced financial analysis. They discuss the power of ChatGPT in democratizing data and how this technology can help improve workflows and analysis.Learn more about AI's impact on roles in investment banking and accounting and how to use generative AI to work more effectively.

In this special episode of FinPod, host Anna Talerico shines a CFI member spotlight on Stephen Moerane, a remarkable individual whose journey has come full circle within the CFI community. Stephen's story begins as a CFI learner and progresses to a CFI team member. Listen in as Anna and Stephen discuss his inspiring transition from non-finance roles to a career in finance and his journey to becoming a valued member of the CFI team. Stephen shares insights into his academic and professional pursuits, highlighting the connections between his love for music and his passion for finance. He also discusses his recent transition into a community-focused role, emphasizing the importance of supporting CFI learners and fostering connections within our community. This is a conversation about the power of lifelong learning, personal growth, and the impact one can have in creating an active, thriving community.

In this episode of FinPod, host Asim Khan is joined by Duncan McKeen, CFA, FMVA, to talk about the final components of the FP&A model Duncan's been developing for our FP&A courses. Duncan shares how dashboards and data visualization techniques can transform traditional financial analysis into compelling stories. Learn the importance of effectively presenting data using colorful visualizations and dynamic charts that capture trends, highlight insights, and aid decision-making. Discover how purposeful errors in Excel can help toggle graph features and gain valuable tips on making your models user-friendly and efficient. Tune in for lots of tips & tricks.

In this episode of FinPod, host Asim Khan is joined by Duncan McKeen, CFA, FMVA, as they discuss financial statement aggregation and analysis. Follow along as Duncan walks us through consolidating financial statements using advanced Excel functions. Discover the significance of breaking down current and deferred taxes, balancing income statements, and mastering cash flow projections. Learn the benefits of monthly modeling for a comprehensive 24-month forecast period and how to effectively aggregate data by quarter and year. Join Duncan and Asim as they explore common modeling challenges while offering insights on building robust models with features like alerts and up-to-date functionalities.

In this episode of FinPod, host Asim Khan is joined by Duncan McKeen, CFA, FMVA, as they delve into the world of headcount forecasting and analysis. This engaging discussion explores essential strategies for forecasting a company's employees and associated costs.Discover how to forecast salaries, bonuses, and benefits while maintaining a comprehensive view of cash flow and income statements. Learn about new Excel features like up and down arrows to quickly spot salary changes and model alerts that enhance model integrity. Duncan shares innovative approaches to employee cost forecasting and the importance of cover pages in communicating critical information upfront.Tune in for valuable insights into headcount forecasting & analysis that every FP&A professional needs to know.

In this episode of FinPod, host Asim Khan is joined by Duncan McKeen, CFA, FMVA, to discuss FP&A model design, revenue forecasting, and the power of proper formatting. Duncan shares insights on creating visually appealing and easy-to-follow models using the latest Excel features, such as binary switches and conditional formatting.Discover how to enhance your models with up and down arrows to highlight changes and leverage binary switches for efficient data management. Learn how these techniques contribute to telling the story behind the numbers, helping you make informed financial decisions. Elevate your FP&A revenue forecasting skills with this quick, high-impact conversation.

In this episode of FinPod, host Asim Khan is joined by Duncan McKeen, CFA, FMVA, to discuss Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A). Duncan shares insights into the importance of model design in finance, emphasizing the significance of careful planning and structuring for effective decision-making. Learn how to efficiently gather inputs using modern tools like Power Query and how keyboard shortcuts can significantly improve productivity.Duncan and Asim discuss practical tips such as designing models backward, starting with the dashboard, and working in reverse to ensure a seamless flow. Tune in for expert advice on mastering financial modeling and how the FP&A courses can help you excel in your finance career.