Built Different with Steven Pettigrew
Steven has been in business for almost 15 years. He has started, built, acquired and sold several companies. He is 1 of 3 partners within Monopoli Capital, who are on a mission to help small business owners grow, scale and exit their businesses for life changing sums of money. He is also the host of the Built Different Podcast. Steven shares tips, insights and strategies to help small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to level up in life and business
Episodes

Monday Apr 14, 2025
Monday Apr 14, 2025
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinve...
Martin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-macleod/?originalSubdomain=uk
In this episode, the host engages in a detailed conversation with Martin, the founder of Financial Health Club. They discuss a range of topics from the intricacies of financial coaching to the perils and benefits of stock market investments. Martin, a former stockbroker and chartered financial advisor, shares his philosophy on financial education, investing, and the importance of personalizing financial planning. They also touch on the cultural taboos around discussing money, the mindset needed for successful investing, and practical steps for managing personal finances. Martin emphasizes the value of starting early with investments, understanding one's financial goals, and building a solid emergency fund before venturing into the stock market. The episode concludes with practical advice for those looking to improve their financial health, including the potential benefits of financial coaching.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup
00:36 Financial Coaching and Helping the Desperate
01:32 Casual Conversation and Personal Anecdotes
04:17 Starting the Podcast: Guest Introduction
04:34 Building a LinkedIn Following
07:01 Financial Health Club and Industry Insights
09:58 Stock Market Experiences and Ethical Dilemmas
11:43 The Importance of Financial Education
14:34 Challenges in the Financial Industry
21:50 Bitcoin and Investment Strategies
30:03 Day Trading vs. Long-Term Investing
30:54 Finding the Right Investment Opportunities
31:22 Understanding Client Goals
31:31 The Importance of Financial Values
31:59 Investing for Medium and Long-Term Goals
33:28 The Discipline of Investing
33:50 Learning from Experience
34:35 The Complexity of Financial Literature
36:56 Connecting with Clients on a Personal Level
39:08 Teaching Financial Literacy to Children
41:38 The British Attitude Towards Money
47:04 Practical Financial Advice
57:42 The Benefits of Early Investing
01:01:33 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information

Friday Mar 28, 2025
Friday Mar 28, 2025
In this engaging episode, Steven, Dillon, and Michael discuss the intricacies of their tailoring business, Suited and Booted, highlighting the importance of authentic relationships and customer service. They share insights into managing client expectations, maintaining a high standard of personalized service, and the strategic importance of partnerships for brand growth. The conversation also delves into personal development, overcoming business challenges, and growth strategies for expanding their tailoring business both locally and internationally. The guests reflect on their journey, sharing stories of challenges, successes, and future aspirations, providing a comprehensive look at what it takes to run a premium tailoring brand.
The Suited and Booted Website: https://suitedbooted.com/
Dillon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dillon-arthur-4a5b7a12a/?originalSubdomain=uk
Michael's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-dixon-aa6713a3/?originalSubdomain=uk
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Initial Banter
00:15 Discussing YouTube Views and Editing
01:13 Comfort in Shared Experiences
01:21 Marketing and Reels
02:32 Insights on Success and Confidence
03:05 Business Partners and Pedestals
04:59 Football and Passion
08:09 Golf and Clutch Performers
09:39 Starting the Podcast Properly
10:58 Suits and Business in Dubai
16:25 Customer Service Philosophy
32:21 Podcast Highlights and Identity Shifts
33:21 Growing Up in a Family Business
34:29 Lessons from Business Failures
36:11 The Beauty in Pain and Personal Growth
38:53 Embracing Vulnerability and New Challenges
41:14 The Importance of Strategic Partnerships
46:58 Launching the Glasgow Store
53:58 Networking and Social Batteries
01:02:50 Future Plans and Expansion
01:06:41 Conclusion and Gratitude

Friday Mar 07, 2025
Friday Mar 07, 2025
In this episode of the Built Different podcast, host Stephen Pettigrew delves into a recent webinar on the true worth of small to medium-sized businesses, emphasizing key misconceptions about valuing and selling businesses. Pettigrew argues against using business brokers, citing their tendency to inflate valuations and create friction in the sale process. He underscores the complexity of selling a business, noting the current buyer's market driven by the influx of baby boomer-owned businesses. Steven also stresses that high revenue does not equate to high value and that profit and systems are crucial for making a business attractive to buyers. Listeners are encouraged to seek advice from experienced individuals and not rely on brokers or Google for accurate business valuations. For more insights, Pettigrew directs listeners to his LinkedIn and his company website, Monopoly Capital.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Business Valuation
00:48 Common Misconceptions About Business Brokers
06:52 The Reality of Business Valuation
08:19 Preparing Your Business for Sale
10:31 Conclusion and Next Steps

Friday Feb 21, 2025
Friday Feb 21, 2025
In this episode, Billy Farrell shares his experiences from attending a recent wedding to falling asleep in a taxi, something he had never done before. He delves into his journey of overcoming adversity, from hitting rock bottom to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Farrell emphasizes the transformative impact of reading Tony Robbins and how it changed his outlook on life and business. With an extensive background in various companies and now focusing on his new venture, Mayhem Marketing, Farrell discusses the importance of mentorship, the impact of social media on today's youth, and his commitment to helping businesses through strategic and innovative marketing solutions. He underscores that true success lies in being focused, strategic, and resilient, and highlights his dedication to his clients and their growth.
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
Billy Farrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billyfarrell/?originalSubdomain=uk
Timestamps:
00:00 Wedding Memories and Funny Anecdotes
01:50 Podcast Introduction and Guest Welcome
02:42 Guest's Background and Business Journey
05:09 The Philosophy Behind Mayhem Marketing
06:36 Early Business Struggles and Lessons Learned
09:26 Mentorship and Influences
19:53 The Importance of Environment and Social Media Influence
22:56 The Case for Social Media Identification
23:54 The Impact of Social Media on Kids
25:18 The Problem with Online Bullying
28:49 The Misconceptions of Success and Happiness
29:59 The Challenges of Modern Entrepreneurship
33:54 The Importance of Aggressive Marketing
44:14 The Personal Touch in Marketing
46:47 Conclusion and Contact Information

Friday Feb 14, 2025
Friday Feb 14, 2025
In this solo episode of the Built Different Podcast, host Stephen Pettigrew dives into various strategies for buying a business without using your own money. He discusses the risks and benefits of different approaches, including leverage buyouts (LBOs), seller financing, consulting for equity, and using investor funds. Stephen shares insights from his own experiences and provides practical advice on structuring deals to protect buyers from potential pitfalls. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding personal guarantees and offers additional resources for those looking to learn more about business acquisitions.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts
01:16 Welcome to the Built Different Podcast
01:59 Why Buy a Business?
03:17 Understanding Leverage Buyouts (LBOs)
04:07 Risks of Leveraged Buyouts
06:17 Alternative Business Buying Strategies
06:43 Seller Financing Explained
09:00 Consulting for Equity
11:12 Using Investor Funds
12:03 Conclusion and Additional Resources

Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
In this solo episode of the Built Different Podcast, host Stephen Pettigrew delves into the topic of personal guarantees (PGs) in business loans. He explains what personal guarantees are, why business owners, particularly those with limited companies, should avoid signing them, and how they can cause severe financial and personal consequences if not managed properly. Stephen shares actual case studies of businesses that faced significant troubles due to PGs and provides practical solutions for mitigating their impact. He also offers advice on seeking alternative funding options that do not require personal guarantees and highlights the importance of professional legal advice in managing PGs. For business owners in need of support, Stephen invites them to reach out through the Monopoly Capital website or his LinkedIn profile.
00:00 Introduction to Personal Guarantees
00:52 Understanding Personal Guarantees
03:00 The Risks of Personal Guarantees
03:35 Real-Life Examples of PG Failures
06:56 Solutions and Legal Support
08:48 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Friday Jan 31, 2025
Friday Jan 31, 2025
In this episode, Steven interviews Alan Finlay, a seasoned barber and entrepreneur. Alan shares his journey from working as a barber to running multiple successful businesses, including Rebel Rebel. He talks about the early influences in his life, such as his grandmother, who sparked his entrepreneurial spirit. Alan recounts his diverse experiences, from joining the army to becoming an apprentice hairdresser and eventually managing and owning barber shops. He discusses his challenges and triumphs, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, adapting to new business models, and eventually transitioning to a more sustainable and enjoyable work environment. Alan also explores future ventures, including potential opportunities in the Chinese market and online education. His story highlights resilience, adaptation, and the importance of setting aside ego to make sound business decisions.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup
01:21 Welcoming the Guest
02:53 Early Influences and Childhood
04:07 Joining the Army and Transition to Hairdressing
06:12 Starting a Career in Barbering
08:49 Challenges and Growth in the Barbering Industry
20:38 Innovations and Success with Rebel Rebel
33:53 Business Partner's Departure and COVID-19 Impact
34:44 Navigating the First Lockdown and Personal Challenges
35:29 Adapting Business Strategies During the Pandemic
36:22 Refurbishing Shops and Learning New Skills
37:17 Reopening Amidst Personal Milestones
38:51 Client and Staff Challenges Post-Lockdown
41:15 Reflecting on Pandemic Restrictions and Government Actions
43:06 Business Survival and Staff Retention Issues
45:44 Opening and Closing Shops Amidst Ongoing Challenges
48:24 Transitioning to a New Business Model
57:18 Exploring New Opportunities and Future Plans
01:01:02 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs

Friday Jan 24, 2025
Friday Jan 24, 2025
In this edition, the host interviews Wojtek, a business partner and the founder of a successful property maintenance and cleaning company based in Edinburgh, Scotland. Wojtek shares his entrepreneurial journey from humble beginnings to running a multifaceted business with a staff of over 80 members. They discuss the challenges faced, the importance of relationships, and the value of having a robust support system. Wojtek emphasizes the importance of getting expert advice, building solid relationships, planning for sustainable growth, and preparing for long-term objectives, such as potentially selling the business. The episode offers valuable insights for both aspiring and established business owners on navigating the complexities of scaling a business.
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
Wojtek's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wojciech-maslanka-12064a1b2/?originalSubdomain=uk
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup
01:57 Starting the Conversation
02:23 Guest Introduction and Initial Discussion
02:30 Weather and Personal Plans
04:16 Business Beginnings and Philosophy
08:07 Growth and Evolution of the Business
12:09 Challenges and Unique Business Model
17:15 Horror Stories and Property Maintenance
20:59 Sustaining and Growing the Business
22:40 Challenges in Business
23:45 Staffing and Cash Flow Issues
28:12 Expanding and Future Goals
32:55 Building a Personal Brand
38:21 Advice for Startups
41:29 The Importance of Accountability
46:27 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Friday Jan 17, 2025
Friday Jan 17, 2025
In this podcast, Johann Goree, an accomplished accountant and business owner, delves into the dynamics of running an accounting firm, making strategic acquisitions, and the importance of planning exit strategies. Johan shares his personal journey from outdoor activity instructor to a successful accountant and business leader. He discusses the genesis of his own software application, Client Engager, and the role of personal branding and public speaking in building a professional reputation. Johann also addresses the common pitfalls business owners face in cash flow management and planning for business exits. He introduces his new book, 'The Ultimate Pricing Guide for Accountants and Bookkeepers,' aimed at providing practical pricing strategies for accounting professionals. Entrepreneurs and accountants alike will gain valuable insights on business growth, leadership, and modern accounting practices.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Beginnings
00:32 Challenges in the Industry
01:18 Casual Conversation and Setup
04:28 Guest Introduction and Background
05:51 Early Career and Transition
10:31 Building the Business
16:18 Acquisitions and Growth
23:36 Software Ventures and Future Plans
33:26 Podcasting and Community Engagement
35:32 The Power of Podcasting for Public Speaking
36:01 Breaking Barriers in the Accounting Industry
37:22 The Journey of Acquisitions
41:47 Challenges in the Accounting Profession
49:41 The Importance of Exit Planning
54:45 The Role of Accountants in Business Success
01:05:57 The Ultimate Pricing Guide for Accountants
01:12:38 Conclusion and Contact Information

Friday Jan 10, 2025
Friday Jan 10, 2025
The Journey of Know Your Numbers: Insights from Craig Alexander Rattray
In this episode of the 'Know Your Numbers' podcast, host Stephen introduces cash flow and finance expert Craig Alexander Rattray. Craig shares his backstory, from his entrepreneurial beginnings at a young age to his career in finance and private equity. The conversation covers the importance of cash flow management, the necessity of proper financial forecasting, and the role of accountants and financial advisors in business growth. Craig also discusses his 'Know Your Numbers' program, which aims to educate business owners on financial literacy and strategic planning. Additionally, the rebranding efforts, upcoming books, and the significance of having the right people in business are highlighted. The episode provides valuable insights for business owners looking to improve their financial management and overall business performance.
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
Craig's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-alexander-rattray/
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Initial Banter
00:40 Welcoming the Guest
01:29 Discussing Coffee Preferences
03:38 Craig's Background and Early Ventures
07:04 Journey into Finance and Private Equity
09:47 Challenges and Learnings in Business
16:41 The Importance of Knowing Your Numbers
20:41 Client Experiences and Financial Advice
27:01 Qualities of a Good Business Owner
33:09 Addressing Cash Flow and Growth
34:37 Realistic Financial Planning
34:50 Understanding Financial Position
35:09 Importance of Forecasting
35:50 Securing Bank Funding
37:04 Engaging with Accountants
37:24 Cash Flow and Business Health
37:57 Rules for Business Owners
38:29 Challenges with Accountants
46:45 Operational Finance
47:23 Know Your Numbers Program
49:08 Rebranding and New Initiatives
54:09 Podcasting Journey
58:58 Future Plans and Vision
01:03:36 Conclusion and Contact Information