Built Different with Steven Pettigrew

Cutting Edge: Alan Findlay on Business, Challenges, and Growth - Built Different

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
 

Scaling with Strategy: A Journey Through Entrepreneurship with Wojtek Maslanka - Built Different

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
 

Navigating Accounting and Acquisitions: An Insightful Discussion with Johann Goree

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
 

Know Your Numbers: Transforming Business Potential with Craig Alexander Rattray - Built Different

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
 

Selling Your Business: Essential Tips for a Profitable Exit - Built Different

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

Building Jolly Media Marketing: Insights with Brian and Barry - Built Different

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

From Survival to Success: Overcoming Business Debts - Built Different

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

Building a Cash Flow Strategy: Insights and Stories - Built Different

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
 

A Conversation with Philip Leitch: Ups and Downs of Entrepreneurship - Built Different

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
 

Marketing Strategies: Producing Opportunities and Generating Leads - Built Different Podcast

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