The Ultimate FD Podcast

In this episode of the Ultimate FD Podcast, I am joined by esteemed Chartered Tax Advisor, Tej Gill, to discuss essential tips for minimizing personal tax bills for the year 2026. As the deadline for self-assessment submissions to HMRC approaches, this episode provides strategic advice that can help listeners save significant amounts on their tax bills, whether they are new entrepreneurs or seasoned business owners.  We delve into 10 actionable tips that include utilizing marriage allowances, claiming training course deductions, and managing capital gains effectively. This engaging conversation seeks to make often daunting financial matters accessible and actionable, enhancing listeners' tax-planning prowess. Throughout the episode, we emphasize critical tax-saving strategies such as making sure to account for all benefits in kind, utilizing the marriage allowance effectively, and ensuring that training courses are correctly documented for deductions.  We also detail the importance of accurately reporting capital gains and navigating property-related expenses. By covering essential topics in finance and tax, they offer listeners valuable insights that not only aim to save money but also encourage more organized and strategic financial planning.  Coupled with expert advice, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to optimize their tax submissions before the deadline or prepare better for the upcoming tax year.   👉🏻 DOWNLOAD A COPY OF OUR BOOK SMALL BUSINESS BIG PROFIT FOR FREE: https://ultimate-fd.webflow.io/small-business-big-profit  👉🏻 HOW FINANCIALLY FIT IS YOUR BUSINESS? Take the Ultimate FD Acid test to find out and have a bespoke report in less than 5 minutes!!! Take the test here: https://josh-dtlqxm7w.scoreapp.com/   

Welcome back to another episode of Magic Moments ✨ In this enlightening episode listeners are given a deep dive into the intricacies of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) and how it pertains to partnerships and incorporated businesses. Joined by expert Tax Accountant, Tej Gill, the episode explores financial strategies that can significantly impact the wealth-building journey of property business owners and other entrepreneurs. The conversation centers on understanding how SDLT relief applies to business incorporations, particularly those transitioning from a partnership to a limited company. Tej illuminates scenarios where partnerships can leverage tax advantages, like the case of a father-son car garage or couples in property businesses. The episode unpacks why this relief exists specifically for partnerships, and not sole traders, offering insights into possible historical or regulatory reasons. Listeners will find valuable knowledge about the requirements and potential pitfalls of claiming SDLT relief, such as the necessity of being registered as a partnership with HMRC and understanding partnership law dating back 135 years. Tej provides practical advice for those managing business portfolios, like ensuring proper documentation and HMRC registration to avoid tax liability headaches. Did you enjoy this Magic Moment? Click here for the full episode.  

In this episode of the Ultimate FD Podcast, I delve into critical strategies for transforming businesses facing financial difficulties. This episode is dedicated to entrepreneurs who may be operating at a loss, breaking even, or aiming to elevate their profitable enterprises to even higher levels.  I underscore the necessity of strategic decisions to convert a struggling business into a high-performance, high-margin, and valuable entity. I introduce the "Turnaround Blueprint," a six-step process designed to help business owners achieve financial stability and growth. We discuss gaining clarity on business performance, removing hindering elements (clouds) that cloud judgment, assessing the market for viability, and convincing oneself of the business's potential. The final steps focus on engaging in necessary conversations and maintaining consistency in applying the devised strategies.  This episode emphasised the importance of creating a durable business model that leverages high margins over mere revenue growth. 👉🏻 DOWNLOAD A COPY OF OUR BOOK SMALL BUSINESS BIG PROFIT FOR FREE: https://ultimate-fd.webflow.io/small-business-big-profit  👉🏻 HOW FINANCIALLY FIT IS YOUR BUSINESS? Take the Ultimate FD Acid test to find out and have a bespoke report in less than 5 minutes!!! Take the test here: https://josh-dtlqxm7w.scoreapp.com/   

Welcome back to another episode of Magic Moments ✨ In this episode, I dive into wealth-building strategies focused on optimizing your property investment portfolio. Designed to spark motivation and catalyze action, this session reveals how understanding key metrics can significantly enhance your financial trajectory. I discuss the importance of calculating Return on Equity (ROE) within property investments—an essential metric for evaluating the effectiveness of financial assets. By walking through scenarios like determining the lucrativeness of property portfolios and weighing them against return rates of stock index funds like the S&P 500, I offer listeners practical guidelines for boosting investment returns.  You will learn how integrating this metric into their decision-making process allows you to strategically assess assets, ensuring that investments are aligned with potential risk and return expectations. I also share insights into the importance of periodically verifying market values to ensure prudent investment decisions.  By the end of the episode, you'll understand why holding onto underperforming assets may not be the wisest financial strategy. Did you enjoy this Magic Moment? Click here for the full episode.  

In this captivating episode of the Ultimate FD Podcast, I welcome Joe O'Connor, a transformative figure with an extraordinary story of resilience and success. Joe shares his journey from being a British army soldier to overcoming life-altering challenges, ultimately becoming a pivotal force in guiding veterans and business owners towards their goals.  His insights on building resilience, identifying and leveraging values, and achieving personal and financial success are both inspiring and practical for entrepreneurs aiming to optimize their business strategies. Throughout the episode, we discuss the significance of resilience in entrepreneurship and leadership, emphasizing how facing adversity can lead to unparalleled personal growth and strength. Joe delves into his transformative coaching approach and the importance of staying true to one's values, even in the face of daunting challenges.  This episode is rich with thought-provoking ideas about personal responsibility, gratitude, and the power of mentorship in overcoming setbacks and thriving in business. Joe's wisdom is a valuable resource for those seeking to enhance their personal and professional lives. 👉🏻 DOWNLOAD A COPY OF OUR BOOK SMALL BUSINESS BIG PROFIT FOR FREE: https://ultimate-fd.webflow.io/small-business-big-profit  👉🏻 HOW FINANCIALLY FIT IS YOUR BUSINESS? Take the Ultimate FD Acid test to find out and have a bespoke report in less than 5 minutes!!! Take the test here: https://josh-dtlqxm7w.scoreapp.com/   

Welcome back to another episode of Magic Moments ✨ In this episode, I sit down with Laurie to explore the keys to building wealth through real estate, business strategy, and long-term planning.  Laurie shares why credible advice only comes from those who've walked the path and how shifting your mindset from "making money" to "building value" transforms your entrepreneurial journey.  Together, they reveal practical strategies for structuring businesses as true assets, setting the stage for growth, profitability, and a successful exit. Did you enjoy this Magic Moment? Click here for the full episode.  

Welcome back to another episode of Magic Moments ✨ In this episode, I sit down with Ashley to unpack powerful insights on wealth building, productivity, and long-term business strategy.  Ashley emphasizes the importance of seeking advice from those with proven experience while sharing lessons from his own entrepreneurial journey in property and business growth.  Together, they reveal how shifting from short-term profits to building lasting business value can set the stage for scalability, sustainability, and successful exits. Did you enjoy this Magic Moment? Click here for the full episode.  

IT'S THE FINAL DAY OF OUR 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS SPECIAL SERIES! 🙌🏻🚀 Welcome to this special episode featuring Laurie Duncan's insightful discussion on making the most of financial opportunities. In this segment, we explore key strategies for building wealth through informed decision-making and running a business with the potential for a profitable exit.  Through candid anecdotes, Laurie and ! share personal stories of overcoming conventional advice and stress the importance of receiving guidance from experienced individuals. We delve into the dynamics of receiving financial advice, particularly from family members who may not have relevant experience. Laurie emphasizes the need to seek advice from those who have walked the desired path, highlighting how their personal journey in property investment required evaluating risks and making bold yet informed decisions.  Our conversation shifts to business strategies, discussing how developing a business with the intent to sell later can lead to substantial financial success. Here, we elaborate on creating value through assets, client base, and structural soundness, which can enhance business marketability and profitability.  This episode serves as a resourceful guide for individuals keen on excelling in the property sector or starting their entrepreneurial journey. If you enjoyed this highlight of Episode #153, click here for the full episode.

Welcome to Day 11 of your 12 Days of Christmas! We interrupt your Magic Moments to bring you a special New Year's Day episode! 🙌🏻 Kick off 2026 with an impactful plan laid out in this episode of the Ultimate FD Podcast. With a mutual goal of creating a remarkable new year, Tej and I present a lineup of 10 indispensable tips designed to transform your business and financial landscape. This episode focuses on enhancing wealth, confidence, and strategic acumen, lending profound insights into boosting productivity and financial stability.  This New Year's special serves as a comprehensive guide to implementing changes that will influence both your professional and personal life, navigating through diverse topics like avoiding lifestyle creep, smart debt management, and the essence of value-based pricing. Throughout this exciting entry into the new year, we emphasize the importance of a finance-driven approach to running a business, urging listeners to place their financial health at the forefront of their strategy. The episode delves into critical strategies such as employing a lean team structure, tracking financial metrics like a hawk, and maximizing your business's lifetime value. We highlight practical actions for a prosperous year but also share personal anecdotes and key decisions that have shaped their financial journeys.  Prepare for a thought-provoking session, filled with actionable advice and expert insights, setting the stage for a transformative 2026. 👉🏻 DOWNLOAD A COPY OF OUR BOOK SMALL BUSINESS BIG PROFIT FOR FREE: https://ultimate-fd.webflow.io/small-business-big-profit  👉🏻 HOW FINANCIALLY FIT IS YOUR BUSINESS? Take the Ultimate FD Acid test to find out and have a bespoke report in less than 5 minutes!!! Take the test here: https://josh-dtlqxm7w.scoreapp.com/   

Welcome to Day 10 of our 12 Days of Christmas - Magic Moments! 🎄🎅🏼 In this episode, we dive into the key traits and behaviors of financially successful leaders. Hugh Massie shares intriguing insights from his research on Fortune 500 companies, focusing on psychological and behavioral traits that define winning leadership teams.  This enlightening discussion emphasizes the fusion of financial ambition, innovation investment, and fiscal control as pivotal factors in driving organizational profitability. Hugh unveils a compelling study conducted using digital scanning to profile executive behaviors in top-performing companies. We explore how robust, financial goal-driven, strategic innovation investments and tight fiscal control can significantly boost a company's profit margins.  We highlight the indispensable role of maintaining strong cultural and relationship engagements within organizations, ensuring that as companies push for financial targets, they don't lose sight of the importance of employee and client relations.  Through Hugh's lens, we learn that balancing financial acumen with compassionate leadership is crucial for long-term success. If you enjoyed this highlight of Episode #165, click here for the full episode.  

Welcome to Day 9 of our 12 Days of Christmas - Magic Moments! 🎄🎅🏼 In this episode, Akash, the founder of RNT Fitness, discusses his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the importance of financial independence, business focus, and strategic investments. Join us as we delve into the ups and downs of building a successful business while maintaining balance in personal life. Akash reveals how his focused approach on RNT Fitness led to significant success but also underscores the risks involved in lacking diversification. He emphasizes the value of having multiple income streams and describes the refreshing feeling of seeing returns from investments outside his primary business.  Akash also talks about pivotal experiences and decisions that have shaped his career, such as attending masterminds and learning from industry leaders, which affirmed the importance of dedication to a single enterprise before branching out. If you enjoyed this highlight of Episode #171, click here for the full episode.  

Welcome to Day 8 of our 12 Days of Christmas - Magic Moments! 🎄🎅🏼 In this episode, we take you on a journey of financial enlightenment with a riveting discussion on the importance of financial clarity in business operations. Adam shares his expertise and personal stories about the transformative power of meticulous financial planning, moving from a bank balance-dependent business model to one that significantly increases profitability through strategic financial oversight. This episode focuses on the critical need for effective financial forecasting and modeling in achieving entrepreneurial success.  Adam reflects on his own entrepreneurial journey, where he learned the hard way about the crucial difference between profit and cash flow. The conversation touches upon the practicality of predicting financial outcomes with precision and how such detailed forecasting can relieve stress and enhance decision-making. If you enjoyed this highlight of Episode #172, click here for the full episode.  

Welcome to Day 7 of our 12 Days of Christmas - Magic Moments! 🎄🎅🏼 In this episode of the Ultimate FD Podcast's festive series, we unwrap the mysteries surrounding Alphabet shares over ten inspiring minutes. We delve into the core of what shares represent in a company, exploring the historical context of Alphabet shares and their relevance in today's financial landscape.  This episode serves as an exceptional resource for entrepreneurs and investors alike who aim to optimize their business structures and shareholder arrangements. The conversation kicks off with a foundation on what shares are, exploring their traditional role as financial instruments that signify ownership in a company. We break down the three fundamental rights that come with shares: voting rights, dividend rights, and capital rights. With a focus on ordinary shares, listeners gain an understanding of how shares are distributed, how they can affect decisions within the company, and the financial implications they might carry.  This episode further dissects the nuances of capital rights, adding depth to the often-overlooked aspects of shareholder entitlements. If you enjoyed this highlight of Episode #175, click here for the full episode.  

Welcome to Day 6 of our 12 Days of Christmas - Magic Moments! 🎄🎅🏼 In this special episode, I welcome the inspiring Pádraic Ó Máille to share a pivotal moment from his journey as a speaker. The discussion kicks off with him recounting his first major speaking engagement with the Limerick Chamber of Commerce. It's a story filled with nervous anticipation and the valuable lessons learned from an unexpected conversation with his mother. Amidst fears and uncertainties, Pádraic discovered the importance of maintaining focus and the unexpected pressures that can come from those closest to us.  This episode delves into the psychological dynamics of fear projection and how personal relationships can unintentionally hinder professional ambitions. He shares strategies for mitigating such influences: disassociating from negative energies, limiting interactions with potentially discouraging individuals, and fostering relationships with supportive connections.  Entrepreneurs will find actionable insights in this recount of a transformative experience that shaped Pádraic career and approach to personal growth. If you enjoyed this highlight of Episode #181, click here for the full episode.  

Welcome to Day 5 of our 12 Days of Christmas - Magic Moments! 🎄🎅🏼 In this episode, Curtis and I explore the complexities of leadership and personal development through the lens of behavioral traits. The discussion centers around understanding innate characteristics such as energy levels, dominance, discipline, and competition, and how these traits can influence a leader's ability to succeed.  With insights drawn from neuroplasticity and behavioral psychology, the conversation challenges the notion of needing to change fundamental traits to achieve success. We delve into the idea that while some traits are less malleable, individuals can focus on refining interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, and intellectual engagement to overcome personal and professional hurdles. Curtis shares experiences and examples of successful individuals who have leveraged a variety of traits to excel, regardless of whether they possess high energy or are risk-averse.  Furthermore, we shed light on how learned behaviors and life experiences can alter one's competitive drive and leadership approach, illustrating the multifaceted nature of personal growth and achievement. If you enjoyed this highlight of Episode #187, click here for the full episode.  

Welcome to Day 4 of your 12 Days of Christmas! We interrupt your Magic Moments to bring you a special Christmas Day episode! 🙌🏻🎄🎅🏼 In this exciting Christmas Day Special, I share personal and business insights from the turbulent year of 2025. I dive into the highs and lows that shaped my journey, offering a rare glimpse into the lessons that drove my personal and business growth over the past year.  I emphasize the importance of building a finance-first, highly leveraged, and lucrative business model. I reiterate the importance to any entrepreneur, to actively manage business complexities, legal challenges, and team dynamics, affirming that resilience and adaptability are critical to achieving long-term success.  Among the key lessons shared, I highlight the transformative power of aligning business growth with client value and how overcoming hardships can foster profound personal and professional growth. Merry Christmas! 🎄 👉🏻 DOWNLOAD A COPY OF OUR BOOK SMALL BUSINESS BIG PROFIT FOR FREE: https://ultimate-fd.webflow.io/small-business-big-profit  👉🏻 HOW FINANCIALLY FIT IS YOUR BUSINESS? Take the Ultimate FD Acid test to find out and have a bespoke report in less than 5 minutes!!! Take the test here: https://josh-dtlqxm7w.scoreapp.com/   

Welcome to Day 3 of our 12 Days of Christmas - Magic Moments! 🎄🎅🏼 In this episode, Tej and I dissect the intricacies of company valuation. This episode delves into the essential concepts of equity value and enterprise value, offering listeners a nuanced understanding of these critical financial metrics. This episode provides keen insights into the factors influencing these values, making it an invaluable resource for business owners considering a sale or investment. We discuss the differences and significance of equity value and enterprise value in business. Enterprise value is discussed as the comprehensive worth of a business, judged by its profit engine. On the other side, equity value gives a clearer picture of ownership by detailing what the shares are worth after accounting for financial liabilities and assets like cash, debts, and more. This financial perspective is essential for understanding business valuation and for making informed decisions when buying or selling a business. The conversation also covers practical aspects of determining a company's sale value, starting from the enterprise value calculation, based on profit and industry-standard multipliers, and moving to adjustments based on the company's financial position. Listeners will get strategic guidance on how to effectively assess the valuation considerations, ensuring they are equipped for insightful decision-making in their business endeavors. If you enjoyed this highlight of Episode #188, click here for the full episode.  

Welcome to Day 2 of our 12 Days of Christmas - Magic Moments! 🎄🎅🏼 In this special holiday edition of the Ultimate FD podcast, Reza and I reflect on the significant moments of the past year, focusing on pivotal themes such as the true purpose of starting a business and the challenges it presents. He emphasizes the importance of balancing work and family, urging listeners to reevaluate how they use their time and the reasons they began their entrepreneurial journeys.  The episode embarks on enlightening discussions inspired by real-life scenarios faced by many business owners. Throughout the episode, Reza introduces the concept of value-based pricing as a game-changer for professional service firms. By sharing his personal experience transitioning from traditional time-based billing to a model that prioritizes outcomes and client satisfaction, Reza illustrates how businesses can significantly increase profitability.  With insights into client behavior and practical advice on implementing effective pricing strategies, this installment of the podcast is a must-listen for entrepreneurs seeking to optimize their business models and achieve sustainable success. If you enjoyed this highlight of Episode #190, click here for the full episode.  

🎄WELCOME TO 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS IN THE FORM OF MAGIC MOMENTS!🎄🎅🏼 Over the next 12 days, we're sharing with you some of our best moments from the Ultimate FD Podcast. We're doing one of these episodes every single day into the brand new year, so make the most of it 🙌🏻 Tune in, have your short shop 10 minutes of inspiration whilst you're eating your Christmas pies and enjoying the festive break! 🎅🏼 In this episode, I catch up with Sean, a successful entrepreneur who shares his wisdom on financial growth and the pitfalls of luxury spending. This episode takes a deep dive into the lessons learned from Sean's financial journey, from owning a £10 million property portfolio to resisting the temptations of lifestyle inflation. In this installment, Sean discusses the importance of financial freedom and stability over fleeting material satisfaction. With personal anecdotes, such as his experience with owning a Range Rover, he highlights the costly mistakes one can make and how they can derail long-term financial objectives.  We explore how genuine happiness stems from stability and community, rather than status symbols.  This episode provides valuable insights for anyone looking to maintain financial discipline and prioritize long-term goals over short-term gratification. If you enjoyed this highlight of Episode #192, click here for the full episode.  

Join me as we kick off a festive series with the Ultimate FD Podcast's 12 Days of Christmas! In this exciting episode, I reflect on my Top 10 Lessons from 2025, showcasing some impressive achievements, such as recruiting 16 team members and surpassing sales targets. With a remarkable insight into 50 businesses, I promise listeners a treasure trove of valuable learnings.  This episode sets the stage for a series of daily episodes as part of our 12 Days of Christmas mini - series, featuring my most impactful moments and wisdom from the past year. I delve into the nitty-gritty of running a business in 2025. I emphasize the importance of a finance-first approach and how transforming setbacks into accelerated growth can propel a business forward.  As I revisit the fundamentals of marketing and share personal anecdotes about maintaining work-life balance, listeners can look forward to a rich tapestry of themes designed to inspire and empower. 👉🏻 DOWNLOAD A COPY OF OUR BOOK SMALL BUSINESS BIG PROFIT FOR FREE: https://ultimate-fd.webflow.io/small-business-big-profit  👉🏻 HOW FINANCIALLY FIT IS YOUR BUSINESS? Take the Ultimate FD Acid test to find out and have a bespoke report in less than 5 minutes!!! Take the test here: https://josh-dtlqxm7w.scoreapp.com/