Why Losing My Dream Job Made Me the FP&A Tools Expert with Paul Barnhurst

In this special solo episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst, known as the FP&A Guy, takes the spotlight to share his personal journey from a corporate financial analyst to an influential voice in financial modeling and FP&A. This episode is packed with career highlights, trends in financial modeling, and a mix of humor to kick off the new year.

With over a decade of experience in corporate FP&A, Paul is a Microsoft MVP, a globally recognized trainer, and the founder of several successful podcasts. His personal story exemplifies persistence, continuous learning, and the value of building a personal brand.

Expect to Learn:

• The career journey of Paul Barnhurst of creating a thriving business and gaining global recognition.
• Key lessons in financial modeling, including best practices in designing effective models.
• Trends shaping financial modeling and analytics for 2025, including the role of AI.
• Practical advice on building a personal brand and leveraging LinkedIn to grow professionally.
• A lighter side of finance with Paul’s humorous take on financial and Excel-related jokes.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "When I started my own business, I didn't have everything figured out, but I believed in taking the leap and figuring it out along the way."
• "The ability to build a personal brand is a career game changer, especially for financial professionals."
• "If you’re not having fun with what you do, find ways to bring your personality into your work—it makes all the difference."

Paul Barnhurst takes us on a journey through his career by highlighting the lessons he’s learned and the challenges he’s faced. With light humor and practical advice, Paul inspires listeners to embrace growth, take risks, and build their own paths to success.

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376  

Follow 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=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:

[01:13] - Introduction and Context

[02:14] - The Early Career Struggles

[04:50] - The Pivot to FP&A

[06:24] - Building Financial Modeling Expertise

[08:44] - Starting His Own Business

[15:54] - Career in Financial Modeling

[17:24] - Humor and Fun

[20:06] - Trends for 2025

[25:43] - Rapid Fire Financial Modeling Opinions

[28:14] - Closing Remarks