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 today’s episode:

[01:49] - Introduction and Meet the Guest

[02:49] - Horror Stories in Financial Models

[04:28] - Key Takeaways from Bad Models

[06:45] - Joel’s Global Background

[10:18] - PerfectXL and Best Practices in Excel

[14:56] - Staying Updated on Excel

[18:03] - Advice for Beginners in Excel

[29:14] - Balancing Excel’s Flexibility and Risks

[36:12] - Fun Projects in Excel

[38:38] - Rapid-Fire Questions

[48:26] - Final Advice for Financial Modelers