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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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 
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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

In the second part of "The Great Debate," expert financial modelers from around the globe discuss controversial and thought-provoking questions about the art and science of financial modeling. The discussion focuses on the enduring relevance of Excel, the role of AI and Power BI in shaping the future of modeling. This episode highlights the nuances, complexities, and future of financial modeling as a discipline.

This episode features Giles Male, co-founder of Full Stack Modeler and an Excel MVP, Will Wardle, an independent financial modeler with over two decades of experience, Carolina Lago, founder of Classic Financial, specializing in FP&A and financial restructuring for SMEs, Hedieh Kianyfard, a project finance expert from Iran, known for her practical solutions to complex modeling challenges, Oz du Soleil, a YouTube star and Excel MVP, renowned for his engaging tutorials and insights, Rishi Sapra, a former accountant turned Power BI advocate, and David Brown, a seasoned financial modeler with 27 years of experience, excelling in blending Excel with Power BI.

Expect to Learn:

• The role of circular references in financial models.
• Why named ranges in Excel can either simplify or complicate financial models.
• The impact of AI on the future of financial modeling.
• How Power BI complements financial modeling by enhancing data visualization and storytelling.
• The debate on the most important financial statement and how it informs decision-making.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Dynamic arrays offer huge improvements, and we should aspire to use them more effectively as a community." - Giles Male
• "A three-statement model is the universal language of finance, connecting operations and strategy for decision-making." - Carolina Lago
• "Power BI complements financial models by adding context, automation, and storytelling, making it a must-learn tool." - Rishi Sapra

This episode of The Great Debate offers a lively exploration of financial modeling. The expert panelists highlight how financial modeling combines art and science, requiring technical mastery, critical thinking, and creativity. The discussions underscored the importance of balancing simplicity with complexity, leveraging technology without losing sight of foundational principles.

Follow Giles:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/

Follow Will:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-wardle-3396259/

Follow Carolina:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-carolinalago/

Follow Hedieh :

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hediehkianyfard/

Follow Oz:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ozdata/

Follow Rishi:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rsaprano/

Follow David:

• Website -

In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst talks about data integration, focusing on how finance professionals can streamline data processes and optimize workflows. The conversation also explores the balance between spreadsheets and specialized tools in financial modeling. He provides practical guidance for professionals navigating data challenges in the modern financial landscape.

Adam Rakich is an experienced professional in financial planning and analysis (FP&A) software and data integration solutions. With career spanning tools like Adaptive Insights, OneStream, and DataBlend, Adam brings a unique perspective on how accountants and finance teams can leverage technology to overcome data-related inefficiencies.

Expect to Learn:

• Why assumptions in financial models can make or break their reliability.
• The key factors that determine when to move from spreadsheets to planning tools.
• How to make data integration less intimidating for finance professionals.
• Practical solutions for accessing data across multiple systems, including API usage and hybrid approaches.
• Insights into the evolving role of Excel and Google Sheets in modern financial modeling.

Here are a few quotes from this episode:

• “Spreadsheets are not multi-user, and anyone trying to make them that way is spending more time than they should.” - Adam Rakich
• “For fractional CFOs, marketplaces like Zero and QuickBooks can be lifesavers with cost-effective integrations.” - Adam Rakich
• “Every small automation reduces time and errors, even if the entire process can’t be automated.” - Adam Rakich

Adam Rakich shares the challenges and opportunities in data integration and financial modeling. He offers practical solutions to approach data integration without fear, and the evolving roles of tools like Excel, Google Sheets, and APIs.

Follow Adam:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rakich/
• Business User’s Guide to Data Integration - https://a.co/d/5xSL3g4

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 episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst aka The FP&A Guy talks about the electrifying world of Excel Esports at the Financial Modeling World Cup (FMWC) in Las Vegas. This special episode captures the energy and innovation of the event, showcasing interviews with top competitors, including Excel MVPs and data enthusiasts, while exploring how Excel competitions push the boundaries of modeling expertise.

The episode features Josh Aharonoff: Microsoft MVP, "Your CFO Guy," specializing in dynamic financial modeling and consulting. David Fortin: Excel expert, Microsoft MVP, and creator of the World of Warcraft-themed FMWC case study. Jaq Kennedy: UK-based actuarial consultant and Excel enthusiast, sharing personal stories and insights from the event. Amber Johnson: Industrial engineer turned Excel champion, known for her creative modeling approach.

Expect to Learn:

• Insights into the competitive world of the Financial Modeling World Cup and the role of Excel Esports.
• Unique perspectives on the creative use of Excel, from real-world modeling to themed case studies.
• How Excel innovations like Power Query, dynamic arrays, and VBA are transforming data work.
• Personal journeys of Excel enthusiasts and their favorite tips and tools.
• Why participating in competitions like FMWC can rapidly enhance your financial modeling skills.

Here are a few quotes from this episode:

• "I’ve spent 24 years working in Excel, and competing here has tripled my knowledge in just two years." - Jaq Kennedy
• "Competing is less about beating others and more about seeing how much you’ve improved." - Amber Johnson
• "Creating a case with input from Blizzard Entertainment was surreal—it brought my gaming passion into Excel." - David Fortin

The Financial Modeling World Cup is a celebration of creativity, community, and growth. Events like these provide an experience of learning from the best in the field, or simply embracing the love of Excel.

Follow Josh:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshaharonoff/
• Website - https://www.yourcfoguy.com/

Follow David:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-fortin-cpa-816b20b5/
• Website - https://linktr.ee/Piggybankaccountant

Follow Jaq:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaqkennedy/

Follow Amber:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ambernjohnsonwmu/

Follow Paul:

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

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This episode takes you to the heart of the Financial Modeling World Cup (FMWC) 2024, hosted at the HyperX Gaming Arena in Las Vegas. Known as the "Excel Esports Championship," this unique event blends competitive financial modeling with the energy of live sports entertainment. From electric arenas to engaging case competitions, discover how Excel enthusiasts and world-class modelers push the boundaries of what's possible in financial modeling.

This episode features an exceptional lineup of guests, including Andrew Grigolyunovich, founder of the Financial Modeling World Cup and a pioneer in turning financial modeling into an esport; Michael Jarman, the 2024 FMWC World Champion known for his innovative modeling techniques and leadership at Operis; Giles Male, a commentator and self-proclaimed “Most Humble MVP”. Klinsmann Langhanz, founder of FMWC Brasil and a passionate advocate for Excel training and community-building; and appearances from Danielle Stein Fairhurst and Jaq Kennedy.

Expect to Learn:

• How the FMWC is transforming financial modeling into an exciting esport.
• Insights from top modelers on preparing for high-pressure competitions.
• The role of networking and community in fostering innovation and growth in the Excel world.
• Practical advice for improving financial modeling skills through competitions.
• Behind-the-scenes from the HyperX Arena, including hilarious moments.

Here are a few quotes from this episode:

• "Financial modeling competitions make you better at work and expand your career horizons." - Andrew Grigolyunovich
• "The FMWC community is about helping each other, not tearing each other down." - Giles Male
• "The unthinkable becomes possible when you network and collaborate." - Klinsmann Langhanz

With the Financial Modeling World Cup 2024, we've seen how Excel has grown from a business tool to the centerpiece of a thriving global community. From the inspiring vision of Andrew Grigolyunovich to the insights of world champion Michael Jarman, this event celebrates the art, science, and camaraderie of financial modeling.

Follow Andrew:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewgrig/
• Company - https://fmworldcup.com/

Follow Michael:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-jarman-excel/
• Email: mjarman@operis.com

Follow Giles:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/

Follow Danielle:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellesteinfairhurst/

Follow Klinsmann:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/klinsmann-langhanz/

Follow Paul:

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com  
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy...

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) welcomes Charles Keepman, a seasoned financial modeler and valuation expert, to discuss the intricacies of financial modeling, best practices, and common pitfalls. They explore real-world scenarios, discuss the value of creating dynamic models, and delve into the art of valuing companies, focusing on how different industries and stages of business impact modeling strategies.

Charles Keepman has spent years honing his skills in financial modeling, starting at Ernst & Young and later working at Economics Partners (now Ryan Valuation). With deep expertise in business valuation, Charles currently applies his modeling skills to help clients make strategic financial decisions. His career trajectory has been shaped by his passion for creating efficient and dynamic financial models that help businesses make informed, data-driven decisions.

Expect to Learn:

• Key principles for building auditable, easy-to-follow financial models.
• Insights into business valuation: when to use different approaches like DCF, asset, and market-based methods.
• The role of qualitative factors in valuation and how they can drastically influence outcomes.
• The role of Excel and financial modeling software in today’s fast-paced financial world.
• Why simplicity often trumps complexity in financial modeling, and how to strike the right balance.

Here are a few quotes from Charles Keepman:

• "I think AI will have a profound effect on financial modeling, but we need to make sure it’s auditable and understandable."
• "Financial models are great tools, but the true value lies in understanding the assumptions behind them."
• "You can get stuck in analysis paralysis if you overcomplicate your models with too many variables."

From emphasizing the importance of simplicity and clear assumptions to his preference for using tools like XLOOKUP over complex formulas, Charles provides a wealth of practical advice. His perspective on AI in financial modeling highlights the balance between leveraging technology and maintaining human judgment, ensuring that models remain accurate and useful.

Follow Charles:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-keepman-58766a40/

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’.

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