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

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

Friday Jan 03, 2025
Friday Jan 03, 2025
In this solo episode of the Built Different podcast, host Stephen Pettigrew tackles the frequently asked question of how to sell a business for a life-changing sum of money. Stephen highlights the importance of tracking financials, including maintaining management accounts, cash flow forecasts, and sales forecasts. He stresses the need for a second-tier management team and having predictable, consistent sales strategies in place. Stephen also shares real-life examples and offers further resources for those interested in detailed guidance, encouraging listeners to reach out via LinkedIn and subscribe to the podcast for more insightful content.
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction to Selling Your Business
00:19 Key Fundamentals Buyers Look For
00:24 Importance of Financial Tracking
00:51 Case Study: The Edinburgh Business
01:29 Building a Second-Tier Management Team
02:13 Ensuring Predictable Sales
02:38 Conclusion and Further Resources

Friday Dec 27, 2024
Friday Dec 27, 2024
Building a Media Empire: The Journey and Insights of Jolly Media Marketing This podcast episode features an in-depth conversation with Brian and Barry, owners of Jolly Media Marketing, as they recount their entrepreneurial journey. They discuss the early days of setting up their marketing agency, the challenges they faced, and their strategies for growth. The duo emphasizes the importance of partnership, learning on the job, and their passion for podcasting. The episode also touches on recent changes in the UK budget, especially those affecting businesses and entrepreneurs. A must-listen for aspiring business owners and marketers, the conversation is both inspiring and practical in its advice.
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
Jolly Media Marketing: https://jollymediamarketing.com
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts
01:11 Podcasting Challenges and Learning Curves
02:30 Starting the Show: Welcoming Guests
05:03 Brian's Journey: From School to Business
09:06 Barry's Path: From Insurance to Marketing
12:38 Building Jolly Media Marketing
15:04 Overcoming Early Business Struggles
19:00 Partnership Dynamics and Business Growth
27:48 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
39:36 The Value of Business Partnerships
42:00 Long-Term Goals for Jolly Media Marketing
43:06 Challenges and Strategies in Scaling Up
47:00 The Journey into Podcasting
51:12 Insights and Advice for Aspiring Podcasters
56:30 Discussing the UK Budget
01:10:56 Wrapping Up and Contact Information

Friday Dec 20, 2024
Friday Dec 20, 2024
Transforming Business Through Debt Restructuring In this episode of the Built Different podcast, host Stephen Pettigrew delves into the topic of company debts and shares insights on how his company has become renowned for helping businesses restructure or eliminate their debts. Pettigrew explains the profound impact debt elimination can have on both the business and its owner, including a reduction in stress and the ability to focus on growth. He shares success stories from various businesses such as a heating and plumbing company in London and a roofing company in Nottingham, detailing how the bespoke strategies employed have saved jobs, protected creditors, and ensured business continuity. Pettigrew encourages listeners struggling with business debts to reach out for specialized, albeit costly, debt restructuring services that promise long-term benefits.
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Built Different Podcast
00:05 Understanding Company Debts
00:49 The Impact of Debt on Business Owners
01:56 Case Studies: Successful Debt Restructuring
03:13 The Importance of Knowledge in Debt Management
04:14 Specialist Strategies for Debt Elimination
04:50 How to Get Help with Business Debts
05:27 Conclusion and Contact Information

Friday Dec 06, 2024
Friday Dec 06, 2024
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
In this episode of the Built Different podcast, host Stephen Pettigrew discusses the crucial aspect of cash flow management for business owners. Drawing from his experience at Monopoly and insights from a recent guest, cash flow expert Craig Alexander Rattray, Stephen provides practical stories and tips on how to implement effective cash flow systems. He emphasizes the importance of tracking cash, setting up a cash flow forecast, and maintaining consistency in financial practices to avoid business pitfalls and promote growth. Listeners are encouraged to reach out for free resources and deeper support if needed.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Cash Flow
00:52 Importance of Cash Flow Management
01:16 Case Study: Fusion Electrical
01:58 Implementing a Cash Flow Forecast
03:53 Case Study: Wiltshire Flooring
04:40 Free Resources and Support
05:28 Conclusion and Contact Information

Friday Nov 29, 2024
Friday Nov 29, 2024
Philips LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/philip-leitch?trk=public_post_comment_actor-image
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
Navigating the Highs and Lows of Entrepreneurship with Phil Leach
In this podcast episode, Phil Leach delves into his entrepreneurial journey, discussing his experiences with reading influential business books, starting and acquiring businesses, and facing challenges in the transport industry. He shares insights from his transition to university to gain deeper understanding and introduces his latest venture, the Founders Lounge, aimed at helping entrepreneurs with business intelligence, marketing, and more. Phil emphasizes the importance of persistence, learning from failures, and the value of a supportive network in achieving success.
Timestamps:
00:00 Book Talk and Inspirations
01:50 Starting the Podcast
02:30 Early Career and Entrepreneurial Beginnings
04:24 Transport Industry Insights
07:17 Challenges and Successes in Management
11:43 Venturing into Business Ownership
21:29 Mergers and Acquisitions Journey
30:10 The Reality of Business Brokers
37:06 Broker Interactions and Proving Funds
37:36 Challenges in Small Business Acquisitions
38:44 Persistence and Success in M&A
39:49 Leveraged Buyout Explained
40:44 Personal Struggles and Support Systems
43:01 Daughter's Achievements and Family Dynamics
46:34 Business Challenges and Lessons Learned
53:54 Future Business Plans and University Experience
01:00:07 Founders Lounge and Helping Entrepreneurs
01:08:24 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Friday Nov 22, 2024
Friday Nov 22, 2024
Effective Lead Generation and Personal Branding Strategies from Monopoly Capital
In this episode of the Built Different podcast, Stephen Pettigrew delves into the marketing strategies employed by Monopoly Capital and its portfolio companies. He emphasizes the importance of building a personal brand, citing insights from mentors Billy Farrell and Daniel Priestley. Stephen outlines various lead generation tactics, including consistent social content on LinkedIn, email sequences, webinars, podcasts, referrals, cross-selling, and writing books. These strategies aim to create reliable sources of leads and establish industry credibility. For more detailed resources, listeners can visit Stephen's LinkedIn profile.
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:28 Importance of Building a Personal Brand
01:47 Generating Leads: Common Methods
02:51 Monopoly Capital's Marketing Strategies
03:03 Leveraging Social Content and Email
04:25 Additional Lead Generation Techniques
05:22 Referrals and Cross-Selling
06:28 Building Authority Through Books
06:38 Conclusion and Further Resources

Friday Nov 15, 2024
Friday Nov 15, 2024
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
Sean's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-brown-82680946/
In this podcast episode, the host welcomes Sean Brown, owner of Sean Brown Plumbing and Heating, to discuss his 21-year journey in the business. Sean shares the ups and downs of maintaining a long-standing plumbing and heating business, including his early struggles, staff challenges, and the importance of showing personality through social media. Sean touches on his personal life, mentioning his experience with ultras, marriage, and divorce. He also talks about the potential future of his business, the importance of work-life balance, and the critical role of having the right people on his team. This episode sheds light on the resilient nature of entrepreneurship and the personal sacrifices involved in building a successful business.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Initial Banter
02:53 Starting the Podcast
03:12 Sean's Business Journey
04:29 Early Life and Entrepreneurial Traits
08:23 Challenges and Learning Experiences
15:01 Staffing Issues and Management
36:09 Unexpected Apprenticeship Journey
37:12 Challenges of Managing a Small Business
37:53 The Culture of Entitlement
38:39 Pride and Confrontation
40:10 The Loneliness of Business Ownership
40:43 Finding Joy in Business Successes
41:22 Struggles and Support
45:40 The Power of LinkedIn
51:23 The Ultra Marathon Experience
57:21 Future Plans and Reflections

Friday Nov 08, 2024
Friday Nov 08, 2024
In this episode of the Built Different podcast, host Stephen Pettigrew dives into the crucial topic of building a business with the intention to sell, even if the majority of business owners never actually sell their business. Pettigrew emphasizes the importance of preparing a business for sale to ensure it does not stagnate or die. He explains why it’s essential to understand the buyer’s perspective, why business brokers often fall short, and how the current market, dominated by retiring baby boomers, makes it a buyer's market. He also touches upon the future of pensions and encourages business owners to maximize their potential returns by selling a well-optimized business.
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
00:00 Introduction to Building Your Business to Sell
00:25 The Reality of Selling a Business
01:21 Understanding the Buyer's Market
01:45 Generational Shifts and Business Succession
02:42 The Importance of Optimizing Your Business for Sale
03:28 How to Build Your Business to Sell
03:52 The Pitfalls of Using Business Brokers
05:12 The Benefits of Building to Sell 06:47 Conclusion and Additional Resources

Friday Nov 01, 2024
Friday Nov 01, 2024
Find My Socials Here: https://linktr.ee/stevenpettigrewinvestor
Chris's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispeace1/
In this podcast episode, Chris Peace shares his entrepreneurial journey from starting Peace Recruitment in his bedroom to successfully executing a management buyout. Chris discusses the initial challenges of starting and scaling a business, the importance of creating a strong company culture, and the pivotal moments that led to growth, such as the strategic hiring of key personnel. He delves into the intricacies of mergers, acquisitions, and management buyouts, providing insights into his decisions and experiences along the way. Chris also highlights the value of genuine care, mentorship, and strategic planning in achieving business success. Post-exit, he plans to embark on a new venture in business coaching, helping other entrepreneurs and businesses achieve their goals. The episode offers a candid, comprehensive look at the highs and lows of building and selling a business, enriched with Chris's personal anecdotes and practical advice.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene
01:02 Guest Introduction and Podcast Goals
01:50 Chris's Childhood and Early Entrepreneurial Traits
04:31 Growing Up in Pilton
06:49 Early Career and First Business Ventures
11:08 Starting Peace Recruitment
19:10 Building and Scaling the Business
23:45 Challenges and Lessons Learned
34:28 The Importance of Mentorship and Coaching
39:00 Reflecting on Key Turning Points
39:40 The Importance of Business Diversification
41:29 Understanding Management Buyouts (MBO)
42:06 The Decision to Pursue a Management Buyout
43:22 Challenges and Considerations in Business Exits
46:26 The Secret Sauce to Business Success
52:03 Balancing Care and Ruthlessness in Business
54:42 Transitioning Leadership and Future Plans
57:52 Emotional and Practical Aspects of Selling a Business
01:04:40 Future Endeavors and Personal Growth
01:06:57 New Ventures and Coaching
01:11:06 Final Thoughts and Contact Information