In this episode of CFO Weekly, Chris Reilly, Founder of Financial Modeling Education, joins Megan Weis to share practical insights to simplify and master financial modeling. Learn why understanding the three financial statements is universal across industries, how to effectively tell financial stories, and practical strategies for both small businesses and large enterprises to leverage financial modeling.
With a diverse background spanning consulting, FP&A at Hilton Worldwide, and middle market private equity, Chris has transformed his decade of hands-on experience into practical, accessible educational content. As a financial modeling educator and contractor since 2020, Chris focuses on breaking down sophisticated financial concepts into systematic, repeatable steps, enabling professionals to build in hours that previously took weeks.
What You’ll Learn:
➡️ How to master the four universal pillars of financial modeling
➡️ The systematic three-step approach to breaking down complex financial models into manageable components
➡️ Why understanding the three financial statements is crucial for modeling any industry or company size
➡️ The power of monthly vs. annual modeling for revealing critical business insights and seasonal patterns
➡️ Why intellectual curiosity is essential for advancing in financial roles and creating proactive value
🎧 Ready to dive deeper?
Catch the full episode now on your favorite platform:
➡️ Apple: https://apple.co/3YnGn9f
➡️ Spotify: https://spoti.fi/44xUrRx
Learn more about Chris:
➡️ Chris Reilly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-reilly-mission-capital/
➡️ Financial Modeling Education Website: https://www.financialmodelingeducation.com/
Chapters:
[00:00] Intro: From Overwhelmed to Expert - Mastering Financial Modeling
[02:29] From Art Major to Finance Expert: Chris's Journey
[06:01] Breaking Down Complex Models: A Systematic Approach
[09:34] The Future of Financial Modeling: AI and Dynamic Arrays
[14:48] Making Finance Relatable: Teaching Without the Jargon
[16:38] Real Impact: How Monthly Modeling Saved a Solar Deal
[19:30] The Universal Truth of Three Statement Models
[23:05] Small Business Solutions: From Fractional CFOs to Full-Time Hires
[25:00] The Art of Financial Storytelling: What, Why, Next
[27:04] Key Takeaways: Three Essential Skills for Modern Financial Modeling