In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst aka The FP&A Guy looks into Excel expertise with Joel Steendam. Joel shares his global experiences, technical know-how, and practical advice to improve Excel proficiency and financial modeling outcomes. Their conversation covers Excel tools, design principles, and the importance of curiosity and cultural awareness in professional success.

Joel Steendam is a global Excel expert and educator with a passion for helping professionals create better financial models. As a key member of PerfectXL, he develops software to improve spreadsheet quality, mitigate risks, and promote best practices in Excel. With a multicultural background and years of experience in financial modeling, Joel blends technical expertise with a deep understanding of how culture influences collaboration and problem-solving.

Expect to Learn:

• Worst financial models and how to fix common spreadsheet issues.
• Why named ranges and documentation are essential in financial modeling.
• How Joel’s multicultural upbringing has shaped his professional approach and success.
• Practical advice on staying curious and learning new Excel skills.
• The role of tools like PerfectXL in auditing and improving spreadsheet quality for financial modeling.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Even best practices, when misused, can have a massive negative impact on Excel models."
• "PerfectXL’s tools focus on mitigating risks and improving model quality by emphasizing structure and consistency."
• "If you build something on Monday that you don’t understand by Wednesday, you’re not building the right thing."

Joel Steendam shared his expertise on improving Excel models, staying curious, and navigating the challenges of financial modeling. Financial models are powerful decision-making tools, but they’re only as effective as their structure and design allow them to be. Joel provided invaluable lessons for both beginners and experienced modelers on structure, documentation, and tools.

Follow Joel:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-steendam/
• Website - https://www.perfectxl.com/

Follow Paul:

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

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In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Tim Vipond who is a seasoned finance professional and co-founder of the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI). They discuss financial modeling nightmares, strategy’s vital role in modeling, and the importance of avoiding shortcuts. Tim also shares his unique entrepreneurial journey and offers practical advice for improving modeling and strategic decision-making.

Tim Vipond began his career as an investment banking analyst and later transitioned to wealth management, corporate development, and e-commerce finance. As the co-founder of the Corporate Finance Institute, Tim has trained over 2 million students and introduced practical certifications that reshape how finance professionals develop their skills. Tim’s blend of financial expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and focus on strategy makes him a compelling guest for this conversation.

Expect to Learn:

• How to avoid and learn from common financial modeling mistakes.
• Why aligning financial models with business strategy is critical.
• The journey of building the Corporate Finance Institute and insights into e-learning success.
• The role of assumptions, execution, and scenario analysis in effective modeling.
• Tim’s advice on combining unique skills to propel your career.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Never take shortcuts in your modeling. It’s tempting when you’re under pressure, but those shortcuts will come back to bite you later.”
• “Combining two or more unique skills is the best way to get significantly ahead in your career. It’s where you stand out and add the most value.”
• “Many scenarios in models are not grounded in strategy. Thoughtful, realistic scenarios tied to strategic goals are what add real value.”

Tim Vipond highlighted the interplay between technical mastery and strategic insight in financial modeling. Tim provided actionable advice on avoiding pitfalls, validating assumptions, and connecting models to overarching business goals. His emphasis on skill stacking and execution underpins the value of continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly evolving field.

Follow Tim:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timvipond/
• Website - https://vipond.com/
• Company - https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/

Follow Paul:

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

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• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true 
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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