Podcasts about small business finance

How much cash is hiding in your business? See if you qualify for a Free Financial Health Check Financial Intelligence Toolkit When Steve walks into a struggling business, people expect him to start with leadership, culture, or strategy. He never does.In this episode he walks through the one thing he fixes first in every struggling business, why everything else is pointless without it, and what it actually looks like when a business finally has real financial visibility versus just a stack of reports nobody fully understands.If you are running your business off gut feel and hoping the numbers work out, this one is going to challenge that._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

How much cash is hiding in your business? See if you qualify for a Free Financial Health Check Financial Intelligence Toolkit Revenue is up. The team is growing. There is no shortage of work. And somehow the business feels harder to run than when it was half the size.More stress, more decisions, more fires, and at the same time less margin, less cash, less clarity.In this episode Steve breaks down exactly why this happens and why it is almost never an operations problem. It is a structure problem. He walks through the specific traps that make growth feel like punishment and what it actually takes to fix them._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

How much cash is hiding in your business? See if you qualify for a Free Financial Health Check Financial Intelligence Toolkit Most business partnerships do not fall apart because of personality conflicts. They fall apart because two people building something together never got aligned on the financial fundamentals.How much do we pay ourselves? How fast do we grow? What do we reinvest? What does a good exit actually look like?In this episode Steve walks through the financial conversations every business partner needs to have and why the longer you wait to have them, the more painful they become._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

How much cash is hiding in your business? See if you qualify for a Free Financial Health Check Financial Intelligence Toolkit Steve has been inside a lot of businesses that were in trouble. Some were losing cash. Some were profitable on paper but couldn't make payroll. Some had great teams and great customers and still couldn't figure out why nothing was working.In this episode he breaks down the three things he has seen in almost every business that actually turns around and more importantly the sequence behind them. Because getting the right things in the wrong order can be just as costly as doing nothing at all.If your business is struggling or you just want to make it stronger before problems show up, this one is worth your time._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

How much cash is hiding in your business? See if you qualify for a Free Financial Health Check Financial Intelligence Toolkit When the business starts struggling, the first instinct is almost always the same. Cut costs. Cut headcount. Cut marketing. Cut everything that is not essential.Steve gets it. But in this episode he makes the case that cutting costs is usually the wrong move and why doing it without a strategy can send a business into a spiral it never recovers from.He breaks down what to actually look at when your numbers are heading in the wrong direction and how to fix the real problem instead of just treating the symptoms.If you have ever been tempted to slash your way back to profitability, you need to hear this first._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

How much cash is hiding in your business? See if you qualify for a Free Financial Health Check Financial Intelligence Toolkit Your books are clean. Reports come out on time. Taxes are filed. And you still don't know if you can afford that next hire, whether you should take on that big contract, or how much you can actually pull out without breaking the business.In this episode, Steve breaks down why having an accountant or controller is not the same as having a financial system and what that gap is actually costing you. He also gets into what a CFO really does, why it is so hard to promote from within, and what a real financial system looks like when it is built right.If you have been making big decisions on gut feel and hoping for the best, this one is for you._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

How much cash is hiding in your business? See if you qualify for a Free Financial Health Check Financial Intelligence Toolkit A lot of business owners think profit is the goal, but the real problem shows up when the cash is not there.This is one of the most common struggles leaders deal with. Steve breaks down why profit and cash flow don't match and shares a simple way to measure how much of your profit actually turns into usable cash. Once you see this number, you'll understand exactly where your money is getting stuck and what needs to change._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Do you avoid your business numbers because they feel confusing, confronting, or just plain boring? In this episode, Karen makes small business finance easier to understand by breaking down the key numbers every business owner should know - without turning into an accountant. This is a practical, empowering conversation for business owners who want to stop guessing, stop relying solely on their bank balance, and start making smarter decisions with more clarity and confidence. Karen walks through the five core numbers every owner should be tracking, the three key financial reports worth understanding, and how knowing your numbers helps you price better, manage cash flow, improve profit, and lead your business more strategically. If you've ever said, "I'm not a numbers person," this episode is especially for you. In this episode: Why knowing your numbers is about power, not paperwork The 5 key numbers every small business owner should know How better numbers lead to better decisions This episode is perfect for small business owners, sole traders, self-employed professionals, coaches, consultants, tradies, and anyone wanting more financial confidence in business.   If you want support understanding your numbers, building stronger financial systems, and becoming a more confident business owner, check out The EDGE Bootcamp here: https://events.financialmanagement101.com/edge-bootcamp    #KnowYourNumbers #SmallBusinessFinance #BusinessEducation #FinancialConfidence #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurMindset #CashFlowTips #ProfitAndLoss #SmallBusinessOwner #BusinessStrategy #FinancialManagement101

The small business economy, and the capital that fuels it, are changing in dramatic ways. Innovations in financing, new patterns of entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, and shifting market and policy dynamics are reshaping what it means to own, operate, and grow a small business in the United States. What is the future of the small business economy and access to capital during this time of profound change?This discussion is one of several that took place as part of “The New Era of Small Business Finance: Access, AI, and Accountability,” a forum hosted by the Aspen Institute's Business Ownership Initiative and the Responsible Business Lending Coalition on March 5, 2026. The event featured panels with policymakers, small business owners, advocates, lenders, and technologists on solutions to support responsible innovation and sustainable small business prosperity. Panels include:The Changing Role of Small Business OwnershipInnovations Driving Small Business Lending Forward: It's Not All About AIMain Street Challenges and Policy SolutionsFor more information, including a transcript, photos, speaker bios, and additional resources, visit our website.For highlights from this discussion, subscribe to our YouTube channel. Or subscribe to our podcast to listen on the go.This second-annual event builds on our March 2025 forum, “Advancing Innovation and Fairness in Small Business Finance.”

The small business economy, and the capital that fuels it, are changing in dramatic ways. Innovations in financing, new patterns of entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, and shifting market and policy dynamics are reshaping what it means to own, operate, and grow a small business in the United States. What is the future of the small business economy and access to capital during this time of profound change?This discussion is one of several that took place as part of “The New Era of Small Business Finance: Access, AI, and Accountability,” a forum hosted by the Aspen Institute's Business Ownership Initiative and the Responsible Business Lending Coalition on March 5, 2026. The event featured panels with policymakers, small business owners, advocates, lenders, and technologists on solutions to support responsible innovation and sustainable small business prosperity. Panels include:The Changing Role of Small Business OwnershipInnovations Driving Small Business Lending Forward: It's Not All About AIMain Street Challenges and Policy SolutionsFor more information, including a transcript, photos, speaker bios, and additional resources, visit our website.For highlights from this discussion, subscribe to our YouTube channel. Or subscribe to our podcast to listen on the go.This second-annual event builds on our March 2025 forum, “Advancing Innovation and Fairness in Small Business Finance.”

The small business economy, and the capital that fuels it, are changing in dramatic ways. Innovations in financing, new patterns of entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, and shifting market and policy dynamics are reshaping what it means to own, operate, and grow a small business in the United States. What is the future of the small business economy and access to capital during this time of profound change?This discussion is one of several that took place as part of “The New Era of Small Business Finance: Access, AI, and Accountability,” a forum hosted by the Aspen Institute's Business Ownership Initiative and the Responsible Business Lending Coalition on March 5, 2026. The event featured panels with policymakers, small business owners, advocates, lenders, and technologists on solutions to support responsible innovation and sustainable small business prosperity. Panels include:The Changing Role of Small Business OwnershipInnovations Driving Small Business Lending Forward: It's Not All About AIMain Street Challenges and Policy SolutionsFor more information, including a transcript, photos, speaker bios, and additional resources, visit our website.For highlights from this discussion, subscribe to our YouTube channel. Or subscribe to our podcast to listen on the go.This second-annual event builds on our March 2025 forum, “Advancing Innovation and Fairness in Small Business Finance.”

Ready to see how much cash is hiding in your business? Get your free Financial Health Check now: coltivar.com/check Financial Intelligence Toolkit Your income statement says you made money, but your bank account says something else.This happens in more businesses than you think. Steve explains why profitable companies can still feel cash-strapped and where the money actually goes. Most of the time it disappears in just 3 places: margin problems, working capital, and owner distributions. When you understand how these 3 areas affect free cash flow, the numbers in your business finally start to make sense._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Ready to see how much cash is hiding in your business? Get your free Financial Health Check now: coltivar.com/check Financial Intelligence Toolkit There is a lot of noise in the economy right now. Inflation, labor shortages, geopolitical tension, and constant disruption. In times like this, guessing in your business can get dangerous fast. Steve explains the 3 numbers every business owner should understand to stay in control. When you understand these numbers together, you can see what is really happening inside your business and make better decisions before small problems turn into big ones._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Ready to see how much cash is hiding in your business? Get your free Financial Health Check now: coltivar.com/check Financial Intelligence Toolkit A lot of companies are profitable on paper but still run out of cash.The problem usually comes down to something most owners never measure called the cash conversion cycle. Steve explains why profit and cash flow are different, how working capital traps cash inside a business, and why growing too fast can actually make the problem worse. Once you understand how DSO, inventory, and payables affect your cash cycle, you can start pulling the right levers to get cash moving back into your business. _______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

In this crossover episode of The Consumer Finance Podcast and Payments Pros, Taylor Gess, Jason Cover, and Caleb Rosenberg explore the heightened attention from regulators and legislators on small business finance programs and trade credit. They discuss the growth of fintech-driven and embedded business-to-business financing, the shift from simple trade credit to more complex installment and term products, and how these offerings increasingly trigger disclosure, registration, rate cap, and fair lending requirements — sometimes even pulling in federal rules like Reg E and Reg B when consumer accounts are involved. This episode also emphasizes the expanding structure of state commercial financing laws in California, Texas, and other states, with a focus on new disclosure regimes, and novel consumer-type protections. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Future Finance, Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper explore how AI tools like Claude, Copilot, and Excel agents are transforming financial workflows in 2026. As the finance industry continues to evolve, AI is playing an increasingly crucial role in automating routine tasks, improving accuracy, and boosting efficiency.Paul and Glenn discuss their firsthand experiences with AI-driven tools, from tracking expenses and managing journal entries to building financial models. They also dive into the ways small and medium businesses are utilizing AI-powered Excel agents to streamline their financial processes without the need for expensive, traditional planning tools.In this episode, you will discover:The impact of AI agents in finance and how they simplify workflows.Personal experiences with Claude and Copilot in real-world finance tasks.How to integrate AI into your finance team's daily tasks.The benefits and challenges of AI-powered automation in finance.Paul and Glenn emphasize the importance of embracing AI in finance, highlighting how tools like Claude, Copilot, and Excel agents are transforming everyday workflows. They encourage finance professionals to experiment with AI, even if it means starting small.Follow Glenn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiiiFollow Paul:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFollow QFlow.AI:Website - https://bit.ly/4i1EkjgFuture Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai. Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.In Today's Episode:[00:00] – AI's Role in Finance[03:47] – AI Agents in Excel[06:12] – Claude vs. Copilot[09:27] – Automating Expenses & Journal Entries[15:56] – AI for Financial Models[21:21] – Future of AI in Small Business Finance[26:26] – Workflow Automation in Finance[35:28] – AI & Human Collaboration[39:31] – Experimenting with AI in Finance[41:45] – Data Quality & Governance[43:07] – Key Takeaway

Send us a textProfitable but stressed about cash flow? You're not alone.This episode is a short segment from Episode 102 of The Frustrated CEO Podcast, titled “Let's Get Practical.” In this focused clip, fractional CFO Brian Keyser joins Patrick and Patsy to explain why profitable businesses still struggle with cash flow—and what leaders can do right now to fix it.You'll hear a clear breakdown of profit vs. cash flow, how timing issues, poor forecasting, and bad financial datacreate cash shortages, and why even fast-growing companies can feel constantly cash-starved.In this practical cash flow segment, you'll learn how to:Free up trapped cashTighten accounts receivableImprove cash flow managementBuild simple cash flow forecasts that actually workReplace guesswork with financial clarityIf you're a CEO, founder, or small business owner dealing with cash flow problems despite being profitable on paper, this segment delivers actionable financial advice you can apply immediately. Strong cash flow fuels better decisions, stronger leadership, and healthier teams.

Ready to see how much cash is hiding in your business? Get your free Financial Health Check now: coltivar.com/check Financial Intelligence Toolkit Want more cash flow? This episode is for you.Steve breaks down why taking on more debt usually makes cash flow worse, not better. He shares a real example of a business that got buried by high-interest loans and explains how cash problems actually start much earlier than most owners think.You'll hear a simple way to change how you price and structure your offer so cash comes in sooner, instead of months later. This works whether you're in a tight spot today or just tired of feeling behind on cash.If payroll, vendors, or your line of credit are always in the back of your mind, this episode will hit close to home._______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Ready to see how much cash is hiding in your business? Get your free Financial Health Check now: coltivar.com/check Financial Intelligence Toolkit The biggest mistake business owners make isn't marketing, hiring, or growth. It's ignoring financial literacy. In this episode, Steve explains how misunderstanding your numbers can quietly lock in a bad year before it even starts. He breaks down why profit doesn't equal cash flow, how bad assumptions lead to bad decisions, and why leaders who don't understand their financials end up working harder for worse results. If you want to focus on the right priorities and stop guessing with your business, this episode is a must-listen. _______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Ready to see how much cash is hiding in your business? Get your free Financial Health Check now: coltivar.com/check Financial Intelligence Toolkit Most business owners think they're profitable. Most are wrong. In this episode, Steve breaks down why even companies with CPAs and clean-looking financials often misunderstand their real margins. He explains how messy books distort gross profit, lead to bad pricing decisions, and quietly drain cash. You'll also learn why profit alone doesn't matter, and why this one thing is the real test of whether your strategy is actually working. If you've ever wondered why you're busy, growing, and still tight on cash, this episode will connect the dots. _______________________________________Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Send us a textProfitable on paper but stressed about cash? You're not alone. In Episode 102 of The Frustrated CEO Podcast, fractional CFO Brian Keyser joins Patrick and Patsy to break down the real reason profitable businesses still face cash crunches. Learn the critical difference between profit vs. cash, how timing issues and bad data create dangerous blind spots, and why simple forecasting beats guesswork every time.This episode delivers practical, immediately actionable steps—from freeing up trapped cash and tightening receivables to building simple cash flow models that actually work. Discover how strong cash flow fuels leadership confidence, strengthens culture, and builds trust across your organization.

Join us for our (loosely themed) Christmas (St)eve special including Christmas Career We Go, Lallanagrams & Stern Johnological! Have a great Christmas and New Year & we'll see the Patreon lost on Boxing Day for our Patreon Christmas Farfan Party! We'll be back on the Main Feed on Jan 14th!This episode is brought to you by Paddock Capital: Experts in Small Business Finance. Drop Alex and the team a line to find out more about securing funding for your start-up business!PaddockCapital.co.ukJoin our Patreon to see our Xmas Party on Boxing Day and to access our back catalogue of over 60 episodes! Patreon.com/CareerWeGoExtraTimeGot a round you'd like us to try? Email: hello@careerwego.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The work is honest, the sun is relentless, and the clock on your knees is louder than you think. That reality sparked a straight‑talk conversation about converting today's pool service income into tomorrow's durable, low‑friction cash flow. We dig into three realistic paths—scaling your route into a managed operation, investing in the markets, and building a real estate portfolio—and break down the mindset, mechanics, and tradeoffs of each, without hype.We start with a Rockefeller‑style principle: reinvest in what you understand. If you love building systems and leading people, a multi‑truck, manager‑led service company can move you out of the field and into an owner's seat where cash flow compounds. Then we get practical about real estate, the lane many service pros naturally excel in. Rentals offer a potent trio—appreciation, monthly cash flow, and significant tax advantages—while turning your local knowledge into an investing edge. You already read neighborhoods, solve problems in the field, and navigate city rules; those same skills transfer to finding solid properties, managing turns, and hiring vendors. We talk candidly about vacancies, repairs, and what “passive” really means, along with why buying within an hour of home often beats chasing distant deals. The through‑line is simple: start sooner, keep it simple, and let time do the heavy lifting.• why pool work is finite and planning matters• Rockefeller's reinvesting mindset applied to service routes• pros and cons of scaling a multi‑truck operation• crypto, gold, and market returns in plain terms• how compounding works and when it pays out• why rentals fit service pros' skills and lifestyle• appreciation, cash flow, and tax advantages explained• what “passive” really means in property management• using local knowledge to choose neighborhoods• starting early and building momentum with systemsLearn more at swimmingpoollearning.comJoin the Pool Guy Coaching ProgramIf you're interested in my coaching program, you can learn moSend us a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

Which players have moved from Southampton to Liverpool? Which clubs did José Mourinho manage in between his Chelsea spells? Which striker did both Djibril Cisse and Mario Gomez play with? Listen on for all this and more football trivia drivel. This episode is brought to you by Paddock Capital: Experts in Small Business Finance. Drop Alex and the team a line to find out more about securing funding for your start-up business!paddockcapital.co.ukJoin our Patreon for an extra weekly pod every Friday morning! 50+ episodes in the back catalogue! Patreon.com/CareerWeGoExtraTime Got a round you'd like us to try? Email: hello@careerwego.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us your feedback about the episode!Today on Beauty Behind the Brand, Nicole dives into one of the most overlooked parts of running a spa or salon — your numbers.

It's the season of gift giving, evaluating team performance, and bonuses, and for many business owners, that can bring up hard questions. Can I afford to give out bonuses this year? What if it's not as much as last year? How much is fair? And how do I reward my team without draining my cash or putting my business at risk? In this episode, reformed corporate CFO and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc.'s Danielle Hayden walks you through a simple, repeatable framework to help you decide if, when, and how much to give your team in bonuses that's fair, financially sound, and aligned with your business's core values.  Key Takeaways:  Profitability Comes First: Only give bonuses when your business is profitable. A healthy, sustainable company is the best gift you can give your team. Protect Your Cash Flow: Separate accounts for operations, taxes, and savings (including bonuses) will help you plan ahead and avoid surprise shortfalls. Use Data, Not Emotion: Base your decisions on your financial reports and goals, not guilt, pressure, or last year's habits. Reward Performance with Purpose: Tie bonuses to performance and your company's core values, using consistent criteria your team understands. Timing Matters for Taxes: Be consistent year over year, and confirm with your accountant when it makes the most sense to issue bonuses based on your filing method. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: What You'll Learn in the Episode (01:46) Step 1: Pool Your Business's Profitability – Is Your Business Profitable Enough for Bonuses (03:38) Step 2: Check Cash Reserves – Why Cash Savings and Planning Ahead Are Essential Before Paying Bonuses (06:39) Step 3: Set Your Bonus Pool – How to Calculate a Realistic Bonus Pool  (08:18) Step 4 & 5: Define Eligibility + Allocate Bonuses – How to Fairly Decide Who Qualifies and How Much to Award (11:03) Step 6: Decide on Timing – When to Pay Bonuses for the Best Tax Results and Long-Term Consistency (13:20) Outro: Kickstart's Team Bonus Worksheet and Resources + Like, Share and Subscribe!   Resources: KSA Tax Partners | https://ksataxpartners.com/   Book a Call with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/book-a-call/    Connect with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/Kickstartaccounting YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@businessbythebooks  Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/kickstartaccountinginc  

Cutting expenses sounds smart - but it's not always the path to growth. In fact, it can hold you back. In this episode of the Peace & Profits Podcast, I'm busting the myth that trimming costs is the key to scaling. You'll hear: Why cutting ads or team members may cost you more in the long run How to align expenses with your bigger goals Why time and money must work together for growth The power of delegation in creating peace and profit Listen in and let's rethink the “expense-cutting” advice together.

Heading into tax season unprepared can be costly—missed deductions, lost paperwork, and sometimes, a surprise check to the IRS. But it doesn't have to be that way! In this episode, Danielle Hayden, reformed corporate CFO and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., shares the ultimate year-end checklist every business owner needs to save on taxes, protect their business, and walk confidently into tax season. From organizing your paperwork to making smart tax moves and maximizing personal financial strategies, Danielle gives you practical steps you can take before December 31st that can make a big difference in the new year. Key Takeaways:  Get Your Paperwork in Order: Before December 31st, ensure all your partnership agreements, legal documents, and W9s are signed, stored, and ready. It'll save you major headaches during tax season. Use the January 1st Advantage: The first of the year is the best time to make big structural changes, like starting an LLC, switching payroll providers, or filing for S Corp status. This avoids partial-year filings and confusion. Pay Your Kids (Properly!): You can pay your children for legitimate work in your business and enjoy tax advantages while teaching them financial responsibility. Take Advantage of Accountable Plans: Reimburse yourself consistently for things like your home office and cell phone. It's an important benefit that shouldn't be skipped, even in slower years. Review Personal Tax Opportunities: Before year-end, check your 529 plans, HSA, and FSA balances and make contributions to maximize your deductions and savings. Max Out Retirement Contributions: Don't forget to fund your retirement plan! Whether it's a 401(k), SEP IRA, or solo 401(k), you're building wealth beyond your business. Meet with Your Tax Accountant Early: Schedule a pre-tax-season check-in to confirm your estimated payments, review your strategy, and avoid surprise penalties. Don't Spend Money Just to Save on Taxes: Avoid the trap of prepaying expenses or buying things you don't need. Focus on building a healthy, sustainable, profitable business instead. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro + Critical Paperwork to Get In Order for Year-End (02:24) Setting Up or Switching Your Business Structure for 1/1: LLC, Payroll, S Corp Election (05:02) Paying Your Kids the Correct Way for Tax Benefits (06:36) Accountable Plan Reimbursements (07:24) Collecting W9s from Contractors (08:13) Personal Tax Strategies: 529 Plans, HSAs, FSAs, and Health Insurance  (11:13) Retirement Contributions and Your Different Options (12:31) Meeting with Your Tax Accountant (13:28) Smart Tax Planning Strategies to Avoid IRS Penalties and Spending Profit When You Don't Need To (15:36) Itemized Deductions, Charitable Contributions, and the Big Beautiful Bill's Effect on Depreciating Equipment (17:17) Outro: Kickstart's Free Year-End Tax Checklist, Like, Share and Subscribe!   Resources: Free Download | Ultimate Year-End Tax Checklist Related Episodes: Entrepreneurs: Should You Go S-Corp? Pros & Cons + Expert Insight – Ep 115 Can You Legally Hire Your Children?: How to Pay Your Kids, Get Tax Advantages, & Create Generational Wealth – Ep 137 Beyond the Business: Preparing for a Secure Retirement – Ep 188 KSA Tax Partners | https://ksataxpartners.com/    Book a Call with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/book-a-call/    Connect with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/Kickstartaccounting YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@businessbythebooks  Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/kickstartaccountinginc  

In this week's episode of Business by The Books, Danielle Hayden, reformed corporate CFO and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., breaks down the real journey from entrepreneur to small business owner to finally stepping into the role of CEO.  This isn't about chasing flashy titles or hitting arbitrary revenue goals. It's about clarity, confidence, and understanding your numbers so you can actually lead your business instead of letting it run you. Key Takeaways:  Entrepreneur Stage – Building with Instinct: Many entrepreneurs start with passion and creativity but rely only on income goals and bank balances instead of true financial clarity. Danielle explains how this stage can fuel growth, but also stall it. Small Business Owner Stage – Running the Machine: This is where consistent revenue, vendors, and maybe a team come in. But too many owners still try to do it all themselves, which leads to mistakes and burnout.  CEO Stage – Leading with Vision and Data: The mindset shifts that happens when you step into your CEO role, where you go from reacting and needing to have your hands in every area of the business to delegating and making intentional, future-focused decisions. Real-Life Client Success – Delaney Fischer's Story: Hear how one client shifted from messy spreadsheets and receipts to clarity and balance once she started seeing her numbers monthly. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: Redefining the CEO Role – Why It's About Clarity, Not Business Size (01:11) The Entrepreneur Stage: Passion-Driven But Missing Profitability (03:37) The Small Business Owner Stage: Transitioning to Systems, Responsibility, and Financial Clarity (06:27) The CEO Stage: Leading with Data, Mindset Shifts, and Future-Focused Planning (08:52) Stepping Into Your CEO Role: How to Stop Doing More and Start Gaining Clarity (09:53) Outro: Kickstart's CFO Services, Like, Share and Subscribe!   Resources: CFO Services | https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/the-cfo-solution/   Client Success Story | From Burnout to Balance: Redefining Entrepreneurial Success Through Break-Even Analysis with Delanie Fischer of Self-Helpless Podcast    Book a Call with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/book-a-call/    Connect with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/Kickstartaccounting YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@businessbythebooks  Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/kickstartaccountinginc

You've probably heard entrepreneurs say, “I'm profitable!” - while secretly stressing because their bank account feels empty. The truth? Profit and cash flow are two very different things - and if you don't understand both, you're only guessing when it comes to your money. In this episode of the Peace & Profits Podcast, I'm breaking down: The real difference between cash flow and profit Why you can be profitable but still cash poor Why cash in the bank doesn't always mean you're profitable The simple steps smart CEOs take to track both with confidence Because peace in business doesn't come from hustling harder - it comes from knowing how money really works.

Send us a textFinancial expert Paden Squires shares powerful insights on tax planning, wealth building, and entrepreneur mindset strategies to help business owners keep more of what they earn. He explains how proper financial planning goes far beyond basic tax preparation, requiring strategic quarterly meetings and documentation of tax-saving opportunities like the Augusta rule.• Paden's journey from corporate employee to entrepreneur driven by childhood financial anxiety• Most entrepreneurs struggle with financial disorganization and lack clear visibility into margins• Traditional CPAs often only prepare taxes without offering strategic planning or wealth-building advice• The Augusta rule can save entrepreneurs $3-5K annually by renting their home for business meetings• Documentation is crucial for any tax strategy to withstand potential audits• Proper financial mindset requires understanding the balance between delayed gratification and growth• Tracking weekly financial KPIs like margins and cash flow prevents reactive decision-making• Advanced strategies like deferred sales trusts and opportunity zones can significantly reduce capital gains taxes• "With enough time and energy put into something, you can get better at it" - Connect with Paden at squirestaxplanning.com to book a call about your tax situation or find him on social media and his podcast "Behind their Success."Support the showThanks for listening & being part of the Mindset Cafe Community.----------------------------------------------Connect With Devan:https://www.devangonzalez.com/connect----------------------------------------------Follow On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/devan.gonzalez/https://www.instagram.com/mindsetcafepodcastLet me know what topics or questions you want covered so we can help you achieve your goals faster.----------------------------------------------P.S. If you're not already a part of the The Mindset Cafe Community Page I would love to have you be a part of the community, and spread your amazing knowledge. The page is to connect and network with other like minded people networking and furthering each other on our journeys!https://www.facebook.com/groups/themindsetcafe/

This is Part 8 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. Steve explains the fourth lever of cash flow: operating expenses. He shows why cutting costs blindly destroys value, how to eliminate waste without hurting growth, and the smart ways to optimize overhead while protecting employees, customers, and long-term strategy.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

This is Part 6 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. Steve unpacks the second lever of cash flow: price. He explains why price is the most powerful driver of profitability, how perceived value determines what customers will pay, and how businesses can raise prices confidently without losing customers.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

This is Part 7 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. Steve covers the third lever of cash flow: cost of goods sold (COGS). He explains why lowering COGS directly boosts profitability, how throughput matters more than margins, and the strategies businesses can use to cut waste, improve labor efficiency, and increase cash flow without sacrificing quality.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

This is Part 4 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. Steve breaks down the two main ways businesses are valued: the income approach, based on free cash flow, cost of capital, and growth, and the market approach, based on EBITDA multiples. He explains why understanding both is critical, how multiples impact valuation, and what really drives the worth of your company.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

This is Part 3 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. Steve reveals what truly creates value in a business: generating more cash flow than the cost of your investments. He explains return on invested capital (ROIC), why growth without strong returns destroys value, and how to measure whether your business is actually creating or burning cash.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

This is Part 2 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. Steve explains why profit doesn't protect a business from failure and why free cash flow is the real survival metric. He breaks down how to calculate free cash flow, why it matters more than revenue or profit, and how companies with strong cash flow thrive in any economy.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

If you want to grow your business with confidence, you need to understand your cash flow, and that means going beyond just checking your bank balance. In this episode, Danielle Hayden, your go-to financial partner for all things bookkeeping, breaks down the 5 essential cash KPIs every CEO should track and explains how to use them to make smarter decisions for your business. Key Takeaways:  Cash Flow is the Lifeline of Your Business: Without clarity on cash flow, you're reacting instead of leading—and that's the fastest path to burnout or shutdown. KPIs Turn Insight Into Action: Knowing your bank balance isn't enough; these 5 KPIs give you the clarity you need to plan, invest, and scale sustainably. Healthy Ratios = Peace of Mind: Metrics like the quick ratio and current ratio tell you whether you can handle surprises without panic. Free Cash Flow Is Your Decision-Making Tool: It reveals whether you can hire, invest, or pay yourself more without putting your business at risk. Cash Reserves Buy Confidence: Having 1-3 months of operating expenses in the bank gives you the power to make bold moves without sleepless nights. The 5 CEO Cash KPIs We Cover: Free Cash Flow – What's really left after running and growing your business? Operating Cash Flow to Liabilities Ratio – Can your business cover what it owes? Current Ratio – Do you have enough short-term assets to pay your bills? Quick Ratio – If you had to pay everything today, could you? Cash On Hand – How long can you keep the lights on without new revenue? Topics Discussed: (00:00 – 01:14) Why Cash Flow Makes or Breaks Your Business (01:15 – 02:16) Why KPIs Matter Beyond the Cash Flow Statement (02:17 – 03:07) Free Cash Flow: What It Is and Why It's Critical (03:07 – 05:02) Comparing Operating Cash Flow to Liabilities Ratio (05:03 – 06:14) Current Ratio: What It Tells You and How to Calculate It (06:14 – 07:26) Quick Ratio: What It Tells You and How to Calculate It (07:27 – 08:28) Cash On Hand: Your Ultimate Safety Net and Ability to Investment (08:35 – 09:42) Recap of the 5 KPIs to Track as a CEO (09:44 – 10:27) Outro: Like, share, and subscribe!   Book a Call with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/book-a-call/    Connect with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/Kickstartaccounting YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@businessbythebooks  Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/kickstartaccountinginc  

Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Get free tools to grow your company, smarter: coltivar.com/tools Sign up for the free Financial Pro course: coltivar.com/byfiq If you had to start from scratch and get smarter with money fast, where should you begin? In this episode, Steve Coughran breaks down the three financial statements every owner must understand, the key numbers to watch, and the free tools you can use to spot profit gaps and cash flow needs. It's a simple roadmap to raise your financial IQ quickly and make better decisions for your business. Disclaimer:   BYFIQ, LLC is a wholly owned entity of Coltivar Group, LLC. The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation. This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/terms-and-privacy-policy for additional important information. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com/byfiq

This is Part 2 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. In this section, Steve explains why profit doesn't protect a business from failure and why free cash flow is the real survival metric. He breaks down how to calculate free cash flow, why it matters more than revenue or profit, and how companies with strong cash flow thrive in any economy.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com/byfiq

This is Part 3 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. In this section, Steve reveals what truly creates value in a business: generating more cash flow than the cost of your investments. He explains return on invested capital (ROIC), why growth without strong returns destroys value, and how to measure whether your business is actually creating or burning cash.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com/byfiq

This is Part 4 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. In this section, Steve breaks down the two main ways businesses are valued: the income approach, based on free cash flow, cost of capital, and growth, and the market approach, based on EBITDA multiples. He explains why understanding both is critical, how multiples impact valuation, and what really drives the worth of your company.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com/byfiq

This is Part 6 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. In this section, Steve unpacks the second lever of cash flow: price. He explains why price is the most powerful driver of profitability, how perceived value determines what customers will pay, and how businesses can raise prices confidently without losing customers.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com/byfiq

This is Part 7 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. In this section, Steve covers the third lever of cash flow: cost of goods sold (COGS). He explains why lowering COGS directly boosts profitability, how throughput matters more than margins, and the strategies businesses can use to cut waste, improve labor efficiency, and increase cash flow without sacrificing quality.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com/byfiq

This is Part 8 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. In this section, Steve explains the fourth lever of cash flow: operating expenses. He shows why cutting costs blindly destroys value, how to eliminate waste without hurting growth, and the smart ways to optimize overhead while protecting employees, customers, and long-term strategy.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com/byfiq

Brian Thompson returns for a solo episode packed with practical advice to help entrepreneurs take charge of their numbers. In this mini masterclass, you'll learn how to use your profit and loss, balance sheet, and reconciliation reports more effectively. Whether you love or loathe spreadsheets, this episode gives you the tools to pause, reflect, and make strategic financial decisions to set yourself up for success in the second half of the year. How To Conduct A Mid-Year Financial Review 1. Reconcile and clean up your books First, set aside at least 90 minutes to focus without distractions. Before analyzing anything, make sure your books are clean: Start with reconciliation: Check that your accounting software matches your actual bank transactions and credit card balances. Review your categories: Go through your chart of accounts to ensure expenses are correctly categorized. Review your balance sheet: Ensure your cash balances, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and other liabilities align with what you expect. If not, dig deeper to understand why. 2. Analyze your profit and loss statement Run a profit and loss (P&L) report for the period from January through June and analyze the data: Analyze your revenue: Compare your actual revenue to your goals and prior years. If you offer multiple types of service, break down which ones are driving your revenue and which ones may be underperforming. Analyze your expenses: Look for surprises, categories that you are over budget in, and for subscriptions or tools you no longer use. Calculate your gross and net profit: Ensure you are maintaining healthy margins, and if margins are shrinking, find out why. Look for trends: When looking at the big picture, make sure all the pieces fit together. For instance, if you're spending more on marketing as an expense, you'd expect to have a corresponding higher revenue. 3. Examine your cash flow Cash flow is not just about what you earn -- it's also about what you keep. Use the following steps to make sure cash is flowing into and out of your business strategically: Check your bucket allocations: If you use the bucket system, ensure you are still transferring funds consistently to your various business accounts and that your percentages are still realistic based on current revenue. Review your operating cash flow: Ensure cash is coming in faster than it's going out and that you aren't relying too heavily on credit to cover gaps. Check your accounts receivable: This step is one of the easiest ways to increase your cash flow quickly by following up on outstanding invoices and consistently enforcing your payment terms. Evaluate large expenses: Consider whether you should delay or accelerate spending based on your cash position. 4. Use your mid-year review to propel your business forward Once you understand your numbers in detail, it's time to turn your insights into action: Set or reset financial goals: Use your findings to update your targets for the second half of the year. Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, and tied to your broader vision. Identify quick wins: Look for easy adjustments that make a big difference. Small changes now can have a significant impact on your year-end results. Improve your systems: Make a plan to fix systems that aren't working. Good systems reduce mental load and improve accuracy. Communicate with stakeholders: Share your findings with your team, financial advisor, or coach. Reflect and celebrate: Take a moment to reflect on what is working, and celebrate the fact that you're engaging in this process. Resources + Links Brian Thompson Financial: Website, Newsletter, Podcast Follow Brian Thompson Online: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, Forbes About Brian and the Mission Driven Business Podcast  Brian Thompson, JD/CFP, is a tax attorney and Certified Financial Planner® who specializes in providing comprehensive financial planning to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs who run mission-driven businesses. The Mission Driven Business podcast was born out of his passion for helping social entrepreneurs create businesses with purpose and profit. On the podcast, Brian talks with diverse entrepreneurs and the people who support them. Listeners hear stories of experiences, strength, and hope and get practical advice to help them build businesses that might just change the world, too.

Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthcoltivar.com/benchmarks Most people assume a $5 million business must mean big money for the owner. But in this episode, Steve breaks down the real numbers behind a $5M landscaping company, from revenue to actual cash in hand. Spoiler: it's not what you think. Whether you're in landscaping, construction, or any service industry, this breakdown will help you understand how profit isn't the same as cash flow—and why that difference is what makes or breaks your business. This could change how you read your P&L forever. Disclaimer:   BYFIQ, LLC is a wholly owned entity of Coltivar Group, LLC. The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation. This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.byfiq.com/terms-and-privacy-policy for additional important information. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com/byfiq

Ever look at your cash flow statement and want to crawl under your desk and hide? You're not alone! Cash flow statements aren't really made for business owners, but that doesn't mean you should ignore them. So, how do we read them? In this episode, Danielle Hayden, reformed corporate CFO and CEO of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., is here to show you exactly how to understand your cash flow without needing an accounting degree through the Snapshot Cash Overview, Kickstart Accounting's simple, business owner-friendly report that shows you exactly what's coming in, what's going out, and how much cash you really have to work with. Key Takeaways:  Traditional Cash Flow Statements Aren't Made for You: They're built for bankers and accountants, not entrepreneurs. That's why Danielle and our team created the Snapshot Cash Overview, a simpler, visual tool built with business owners in mind. Profit Doesn't Mean Cash in the Bank: You can show a $20k profit on your income statement, but if you're paying off debt or taking owner's draws, your bank account can still feel empty. The Snapshot Cash Overview: Green means Money In. Red means money out. The Snapshot uses a color-coded system to help you quickly understand your revenue, expenses, debt payments, and draws. Know Your Free Cash Flow Before You Invest: Before making big decisions like hiring or upgrading tools, check if your business is generating enough cash. Use Net Cash Flow to Guide Your Owner's Draws and Savings: Want to know how much you can pay yourself or set aside for taxes? Your year-to-date net cash flow will give you the clearest answer. The Snapshot Bridges the Gap Between Profit and Cash: It ties together your income statement and balance sheet so you can finally see where your money is really going. Topics Discussed: (00:11 – 01:57) Why Traditional Cash Flow Statements Don't Work for Business Owners (02:27 – 04:30) Introduction to the Snapshot Cash Overview and Its Key Components (04:31 – 07:42) How Balance Sheet Items Affect Your Cash and Why They Matter (07:43 – 10:06) Real Client Case Study: $109k in Income But Only $5k Added to Cash (10:06 – 11:39) How to Use Your Snapshot to Make CEO-Level Decisions with Confidence   Book a Call with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: https://www.kickstartaccountinginc.com/book    Connect with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/Kickstartaccounting YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@businessbythebooks  Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/kickstartaccountinginc  

Send us a textYou're selling, but still stressed about money. Why? Mike Milan reveals the hidden gaps killing your cash flow.

We're officially at the halfway point of 2025, and no, it's not too late to make this year your most productive year yet! In this episode, Danielle is joined by one of our numbers experts from our amazing Kickstart Accounting team, Account Manager Becky Teves, to talk through the biggest obstacles she sees small business owners experiencing right now, and how you can finish this year strong and strategic. Key Takeaways:  It's Not Too Late to Pivot Your 2025 Goals: You still have time to course-correct and make strategic decisions based on what's working, even if it means setting fresh goals for the second half of the year. Big Changes Take Time to Show Results: Don't be discouraged if you're not seeing immediate profits from decisions made months ago. Practicing patience is a key part of financial growth. Connect with Your Money Team: Email is great, but nothing beats a face-to-face call to dig into your numbers, goals, and strategies. And if you're a Kickstart client, these calls are included in your package—use them! There are No Dumb Questions: Even if you're not sure what to ask your money team, speaking up opens the door to helpful conversations and solutions you didn't even know were available. Prep Now to Avoid the Year-End Scramble: From making sure all accounts and expenses are accounted for to collecting W9s from contractors, taking small steps now will save you major stress come tax season as well as give you more time to focus on your business and its growth. Topics Discussed: (00:11 – 00:38) Why Midyear is Not the Time to Write Off the Rest of the Year (00:39 – 01:56) How to Rework Your Goals and Practice Financial Patience (02:07 – 05:49) The Real Value of Calls with Your Money Team and What Happens on Them (05:49 – 07:09) Midyear Action Steps: What to Send Your Accountant Now for the Future   Resources:  Kickstart Accounting's CFO Services | kickstartaccountinginc.com/cfo   Book a Call with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: https://www.kickstartaccountinginc.com/book    Connect with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/Kickstartaccounting YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@businessbythebooks  Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/kickstartaccountinginc