Business By The Books with Danielle Hayden

Most entrepreneurs stay stuck for one simple reason: they do bookkeeping for taxes, not for leadership. They record their numbers, send them to the accountant, hope the IRS is happy… and then cross their fingers the rest of the year. But, you can't lead a business with guesses, gut feelings, or your bank balance alone.  In this episode, Danielle Hayden, reformed corporate CFO and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., covers the same systems she used as a corporate CFO in boardrooms with top executives and brings them to entrepreneurs through Kickstart's 3-step framework, so you can stop guessing and start leading like a CEO.  Key Takeaways:  Bookkeeping with Intention: Most business owners treat bookkeeping like a chore—something to check off for tax time. But messy books create messy data, and messy data leads to bad decisions. At Kickstart, we use bookkeeping with intention: A strategic chart of accounts Every transaction categorized with purpose No random QuickBooks buckets When your data is clean and intentional, it becomes insight, not noise.  The Snapshot: Once your financial foundation is solid, you need clarity you can actually see. That's where the Snapshot comes in—a simple, visual report that shows: Revenue and profit trends Top five expenses Net income Where your cash is actually going One client came to us making $400,000/year but was constantly overdrafting. Once she saw her Snapshot, she discovered her contractor expenses had quietly jumped 30%. Within 90 days she was able to course-correct and become profitable again. That's not luck, it's leadership through clarity.  The Strategic System: Knowing your numbers is one thing. Using them is where everything changes. Our strategic system helps you turn data into direction, month after month. Kickstart clients receive: A personalized Snapshot  A monthly financial theme created by Danielle based on what we're seeing across hundreds of businesses. Weekly Business by The Books episodes that unpack each theme Financial education videos The Kickstart Kit worksheets – The same tools Danielles uses to run her own seven-figure company Together, these create a rhythm that keeps you focused, aligned, and growing. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: Why Entrepreneurs Stay Stuck & The Problem with "Bookkeeping for Taxes" Only (00:58) Danielle's Experience as a Corporate CFO & What Entrepreneurs are Missing (02:41) Step 1: Bookkeeping with Intention & Building a Strategic Chart of Accounts (04:39) Promo Break: Kickstart Accounting's "Check Your Books" Service (05:52) Step 2: The Snapshot – Your Monthly Clarity Dashboard  (07:33) Real Client Example of How Clarity Leads to Quicker Course Correction (08:20) Step 3: The Strategic System – Tools & Resources That Turn Numbers Into Action  (11:34) Leading Like a CEO & Your Roadmap to Getting Unstuck  (14:43) Outro: Like, Share and Subscribe!   Resources: Check Your Books | kickstartaccountinginc.com/checkyourbooks  CFO Services | https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/the-cfo-solution/   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  

If you've ever thought, "My books are fine," because you're using QuickBooks' automations or have uploaded your QuickBooks file into ChatGPT for analysis, this episode is your wake-up call (delivered with love!). Bad bookkeeping covered up by pretty software dashboards or people-pleasing AI chatbots hides real problems.    This week, Danielle Hayden, CEO and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., gets honest about one of the biggest dangers facing entrepreneurs today: the false sense of confidence created by messy books, automation, and AI "insights" built on inaccurate data. She shares why accurate bookkeeping is about so much more than taxes, loans, or growing your business. It's about knowing the truth of your business so you can take back your power as CEO, instead of letting technology run your finances.  Key Takeaways:  The Real Reason Accurate Bookkeeping Matters: Yes, taxes and loans are important, but the deeper truth is that bad books hide serious problems, from dying businesses to personal spending that's draining your cash without you noticing. Why AI Can't Save You from Inaccurate Data: Tools like ChatGPT and QuickBooks will confidently present completely wrong information without knowing that your data is inaccurate. The Most Common Bookkeeping Errors Our Team Sees: Including duplicate income, old loans that never got cleared, and owner's draws coded as payroll. These are real life examples that cost business owners real money. How Inaccurate Books Keep You Stuck: Bad data fuels wishful thinking, not smart strategy. Accurate bookkeeping lets you step into your CEO responsibilities with clarity, confidence, and grounded decision-making. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: Why Bookkeeping is About More Than Taxes (01:09) What Accurate Books Actually Reveal (03:40) The Dark Side of AI/ChatGPT and QuickBooks Automation in Financial Analysis (05:41) Common Bookkeeping Errors That Cost Entrepreneurs Money (07:46) Taking Responsibility as CEO (08:28) Action Steps: Kickstart Accounting's "Check Your Books" Service (10:27) Outro: Like, Share and Subscribe!   Resources: Check Your Books | kickstartaccountinginc.com/checkyourbooks    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  

What if one simple weekly habit could completely transform the way you manage your business? In this conversation, Danielle sits down with Cathi Nelson, CEO and founder of The Photo Managers, to talk about how she went from overwhelmed and unsure about her finances to confidently running a thriving business. Cathi shares how a weekly review of her numbers, consistent support from her Kickstart Accounting money team, and small, sustainable financial habits helped her make smarter decisions. She went from saying, "I'm just not a numbers person," to hiring her first full-time employee and planning big investments for growth without having to "make it work" as she went along. Key Takeaways:  Small, Consistent Habits Lead to Big Financial Confidence: By reviewing her numbers weekly, Cathi turned what used to feel overwhelming into a manageable, empowering routine. Understanding Your Cash Flow Means Planning, Not Panicking: Cathi now knows her lean months in advance, sets aside funds, and avoids financial surprises. Your Numbers Can Guide Smart Hiring Decisions & Retain Great Team Members: Using her reports, Cathi confidently brought on new team members and offered well-deserved raises without second-guessing if she could afford it.  A Simple Report Brings Big-Picture Clarity: Categorizing her income into four main revenue streams helped Cathi understand which parts of her business drive the most profit. You Don't Need to be a "Numbers Person": Let go of the shame around financial knowledge! Being the CEO of your business doesn't mean doing it all; it means creating systems and support that let you shine in your zone of genius. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: Cathi's Background and Her Business, The Photo Managers (01:59) Why She Used to Feel "Lost" Looking at Her Financials—and What Changed (03:35) How the Weekly Habit of Reviewing Her Numbers Helped Her Business  (06:39) The Power of Having a Consistent Bookkeeping Team Behind Her (09:00) Promo Break: Kickstart Accounting's "Check Your Books" Service (10:16) Simplified Reports That Give a High Level Overview & Not Being In Spreadsheets (11:53) How Using Her Numbers Helped Her Hire and Give Raises with Confidence (15:46) The Mindset Shift That Ended Her Imposter Syndrome Around Money (19:13) Outro: Connect with Kickstart Accounting and Share Your Story on Business by The Books   About Our Guest: Cathi Nelson is the founder and CEO of The Photo Managers, a growing global community of entrepreneurs who help families and businesses organize and preserve their photos, videos, and memories. She's a champion for small business owners who are building legacy-driven, profitable companies.   Connect with Cathi: The Photo Manager | https://thephotomanagers.com/   Tell Your Story on Business by The Books | KickstartAccountingInc.com/BBB    Resources: Check Your Books | kickstartaccountinginc.com/checkyourbooks    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 set up your LLC, you're running an established business, and things are moving along, but are your financial habits actually helping you grow and is your LLC protecting you the way you think it is?    In this episode, Danielle Hayden, reformed corporate CFO and CEO of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., breaks down the five hidden mistakes that hold LLC owners back and shows you how to build the right habits to protect your business, pay yourself confidently, and prepare to scale into an S Corp when the time is right. Key Takeaways:  Separate Your Business and Personal Finances: Mixing personal and business expenses can "pierce the corporate veil" and undo your legal protections. Keeping everything separate not only protects your assets, it also keeps your books clean and your numbers clear. Pay Yourself Intentionally with Owner's Draws: If you're not paying yourself regularly, it's easy to dip into business funds without realizing it. Taking consistent draws helps you stay disciplined and sets the foundation for switching to payroll when you become an S Corp.  Save for Taxes Every Single Month: You pay taxes on your profits, not just what you take home. Setting aside 25–30% of your net income for taxes keeps you from being blindsided at tax time. Review Your Numbers Monthly: If you're not looking at your profit, cash flow, and expenses every month, you're running blind. Regular reviews help you catch errors, make smart decisions, and identify when it's time to level up to S Corp status. Keep Educating Yourself: Knowledge is power—and profit. Understanding deductions, tax rules, and best practices can save you thousands and help you confidently step into your CEO role. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: What an LLC Is and Why It Matters for Your Taxes  (02:32) Mistake 1: Co-Mingling Business and Personal Funds  (03:40) Mistake 2: Not Taking Owner's Draws (03:24) Mistake 3: Not Saving for Taxes (05:16) Promo Break: Kickstart's "Check Your Books" Service (07:34) Mistake 4: Ignoring Your Numbers or Not Regularly Reviewing Financials (08:29) Deciding When to Elect for S Corp Status (09:04) Mistake 5: Not Educating Yourself (09:55) Real Life Client Success Story (11:12) Action Step: Audit Your Current Habits (11:47) Outro: Like, Share and Subscribe!   Related Episodes: YouTube Playlist | Small Business Tax Tips: Deductions, Entity Types, 1099s, & IRS Strategies Ep. 189 – LLC vs. S Corp: Which Is Right for Your Business? Ep. 115 – Entrepreneurs: Should You Go S Corp? Pros & Cons + Expert Insight   Resources: Check Your Books | kickstartaccountinginc.com/checkyourbooks    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

What if misclassifying your team could cost you thousands in back taxes, penalties, and missed benefits? Most business owners don't realize how risky it can be to pay someone as a contractor when they really should be an employee. In this episode, Danielle Hayden, reformed corporate CFO and CEO of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., simplifies the IRS classification rules into a 3-step framework that helps you confidently decide whether your next hire or current team should be a contractor or employee, and when it might be time to make a change. Key Takeaways:  Know the 3 Keys of Classification: These are the factors the IRS uses to determine if someone should be classified as an employee or contractor. Behavioral Control – Who decides how and when the work gets done? Financial Control – Who provides the equipment and sets the pay rate? Relationship – Is this a short-term project or an ongoing partnership? A Signed Contract Doesn't Override Your Day-to-Day Working Relationship: If you control how, when, and with what tools someone works, they're likely an employee, no matter what the contract says. Your Team Structure Will Evolve as Your Business Grows: It's normal to start with contractors and transition to employees as you establish systems, brand standards, and long-term goals. Don't Forget the Tax Implications: Contractors complete a W9 and handle their own taxes (including the employer portion). Employees go on payroll, and you, the business owner, take on that responsibility. Trust Your Gut and Your "Auditor Test": If you couldn't confidently explain to an auditor why someone is a contractor, it's probably time to make them an employee. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: The Costly Risks of Misclassifying Your Team + The 3 Key Factors the IRS Uses (02:28) Step 1: Behavioral Control – Who's in Charge of the How and When? (02:56) Step 2: Financial Control – Who Sets the Pay and Provides the Tools? (03:24) Step 3: Relationship – Short-Term Project or Long-Term Partnership? (04:13) Why a Signed Agreement Isn't Enough If You're Relationship Says Otherwise (04:44) Trusting Your Gut: The "Auditor Test" for Classification Decisions (05:14) How Your Hiring Strategy Evolves as Your Business Grows (08:13) Tax Implications: W9s, 1099s, and Who's Responsible for What (09:58) Resources on Hiring and Payroll for Business Owners from Kickstart Accounting, Inc.  (10:29) Quick Recap of 3-Step Framework + Danielle's "Gut Check" Test Before Hiring (11:06) Outro: Like, Share and Subscribe!   Related Episodes: The Employee Expansion Blueprint: When It's Time to Convert 1099 Contractors – Ep 120 Resources: The Ultimate Small Business Hiring Guide: From Planning to Payroll, How To Build a Thriving Team    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 episode of Business by The Books, reformed corporate CFO and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc.'s Danielle Hayden gets honest about a tough but essential topic: Are you building a business that's truly healthy, or one that's just trying to pay as little as possible in taxes? Danielle breaks down the real costs of trying to make every expense a "business expense." From dinners and vacations to board meetings and the Augusta Rule, she shares the financial habits that could be holding you back from long-term success and how to fix them. Key Takeaways:  Showing Zero Profit Isn't a Badge of Honor: Trying to pay nothing in taxes might save you in the short-term, but it can hurt you when you need a loan, want to sell your business, or attract investors. Every Meal Isn't a Business Meal: Unless the goal of your meeting is actually business-related, that dinner date with your spouse or lunch with your family where you mentioned work isn't a deductible expense. Your Family Isn't Your Board of Directors: Why real accountability partners and advisors are essential for growth, and why mixing family with "board meetings" on vacation doesn't count. Use the Augusta Rule Wisely: Just because you can use your home for meetings doesn't mean you should. Consider whether that setup establishes the professional environment you need for connection, collaboration, and innovation. Build a Business for Value, Not Just for Tax Savings: Your CPA works for you. You get to decide: Are you optimizing for paying less in taxes? Or are you creating a business that thrives, grows, and generates true wealth? Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: What Your CPA Wishes They Could Tell You (02:26) The Problem with Turning Every Expense into a "Business Expense" (03:29) Why Your Family Vacation Isn't and/or Shouldn't Be a Business Trip (06:35) The Augusta Rule and Creating Professional Business Environments (08:23) Choosing the Kind of CEO You Want to Be – Tax Savings or Long-Term Business Value (10:03) Outro: 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

Do you ever feel like you're drowning in decisions but flying blind when it comes to your finances? You are not alone! In this episode of Business by The Books, Danielle sits down with returning guest and longtime client Nico Misleh, a nurse practitioner and the founder of Apollo Health Optimization and HRT University, who went from overwhelmed and unsure to confidently hiring, scaling, and even launching a second business. Together, Danielle and Nico explore how understanding your numbers doesn't just change your strategy, it changes your mindset.   Key Takeaways:  Financial Clarity Creates Emotional Freedom: When Nico finally understood his business numbers, he felt lighter and more confident, replacing stress and confusion with calm and control. The Right Money Team Can Change Everything: Having a financial partner who communicates clearly and cares personally gave Nico the tools and trust to grow without fear. You Don't Have to Be a "Numbers Person" to Run a Financially Strong Business: Even if spreadsheets make you squirm, the right guidance can help you see your finances as a roadmap, not a mystery. Confidence in Your Numbers Leads to Smarter Decisions: From knowing when to hire to launching a second business, data-backed decisions gave Nico the courage to expand strategically. Relationships and Support Matter As Much As Reports: Entrepreneurship can be lonely, but having a team that celebrates, strategizes, and supports your vision makes all the difference. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: Nico's Background and Entrepreneur Story  (03:24) From Financial Frustration to Freedom: The Struggle to Find the Right Accountant and How Finding Kickstart Accounting Changed Everything (07:03) Confidence Through Clarity: How Understanding His Numbers Helped Nico Hire Confidently and Scale Sustainably (10:14) Mindset & Support: The Intangible Benefits of Working with the Right Money Team and the Kickstart Accounting Difference  (15:03) Future Focused Decisions: How Knowing Your Numbers Allows You to Plan Ahead and Achieve Goals (16:53) Outro: What's Next for Nico + Like, Share and Subscribe!   Resources: Nico's First Appearance | Pay Attention To Your Health, Conquer Scarcity Mindset, & Functional Medicine with Nico Misleh – Ep 148   Connect with Nico: Apollo Health Optimization | https://apollohealthop.com/  HTR University | https://hrtuniversity.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  

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  

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  

Are you constantly wondering if you're spending too much or maybe not enough in your business? Here's the truth: not every season of business is meant to be profitable. And if your spending isn't aligned with the season you're in, you could risk stunting your growth or draining cash you can't afford to lose. In this episode, Danielle Hayden, reformed corporate CFO and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., walks you through the four seasons of business—developmental, growth, optimization, and stability—and shows you what healthy spending looks like in each one and their percentages. You'll learn how to align your financial strategy with your business stage so you can invest wisely, protect your cash, and build long-term sustainability. Key Takeaways:  Not Every Season Is Profitable: Understanding that profitability isn't the goal in every stage of business gives you permission to reinvest strategically without guilt. Four Seasons of Business Guide Your Spending: Developmental, growth, optimization, and stability each have their own financial priorities and spending benchmarks. Healthy Spending Looks Different in Each Season: From investing in marketing during developmental mode to streamlining expenses in optimization mode, knowing where to focus can keep you on track. Your Season Isn't Fixed: Business isn't linear. You may cycle back and forth between seasons depending on opportunities, challenges, or market shifts. Financial Clarity Builds Confidence: Using your numbers as a tool helps you spend with intention and make empowered CEO-level decisions. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro – The 4 Seasons of Business Explained: Developmental, Growth, Optimization, and Stability (01:41) Development Mode: Spending Priorities and Benchmarks for Startups and Solopreneurs (06:48) Growth Mode: Building a Team, Scaling Systems, and Aiming for Profitability (12:29) Optimization Mode: Reducing Expenses, Focusing on Efficiency, and Leaning Into What Works (17:42) Stability Mode: Reduced Investments, Strong Profit Margins, and Balancing for Life (20:04) Outro: Kickstart's Free Healthy Spending Guide, Like, Share and Subscribe!   Resources: Free Download | Healthy Spending by Seasons Guide   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

Ever sat down to build your budget, only to realize you don't even know what you're building it for? A budget without a goal is like a map without a destination. In this episode, Danielle Hayden, reformed corporate CFO and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., is pulling back the curtain on the exact step-by-step framework she and her team use with CFO clients to set financial goals first, and then create a budget that actually gets them there. Key Takeaways:  Celebrate the Wins (and Lessons) First: Before setting new goals, reflect on what you achieved last year and the hard financial lessons you learned. This helps you build from a place of clarity instead of starting from scratch. Big Picture and Dreams Before Details: Start with your 10-year vision, narrow it down to a 3-year target, and then break it into actionable 12-month goals. This ensures your short-term actions align with your long-term vision.  Your Personal Life Matters: Your business goals must support the life you want to create, not work against it. Aligning both ensures sustainability and fulfillment. Define Your CEO Role: Whether you want to be client-facing, step fully into the visionary seat, or do a blend of both, knowing your role helps you make smarter hiring and budgeting decisions. Pay Yourself First: As the business owner, you deserve to be compensated. Budgeting your pay upfront creates healthy financial guardrails and sustainable profitability. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: Why Your Goals Need to Come Before Building a Budget (02:02) The Importance of Looking Back Before You Move Forward (06:03) Setting Long-Term, Mid-Term, and Short-Term Goals (10:27) What Mode Are You In: Aligning Your Life & Personal Goals with Your Business Goals (12:44) Defining Your CEO Role and Team Structure (14:54) Profitability, Sustainability, and Paying Yourself First (18:30) Action Steps to Complete Your Financial Goal Setting Worksheet & Your Responsibility as a CEO (19:33) Outro: Kickstart's CFO Services, Like, Share and Subscribe!   Resources: Financial Goal Setting Worksheet | https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/goal-setting-worksheet CFO Services | https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/the-cfo-solution/  Healthy Budget Percentages Episode | Healthy Spending Habits: Business Budget Percentages That Fuel Sustainable Growth   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

Ever heard the phrase "know your numbers" and thought, okay…but what does that actually mean? In this episode, Danielle sits down with client and entrepreneur Serena Waller, founder of The Dande Agency, to talk about how truly understanding her numbers transformed the way she runs her business. Serena gets real about the ups, downs, and unexpected turns of entrepreneurship—like losing a corporate job at seven months pregnant, launching her own agency, and growing it over the past ten years into a thriving business that now supports a full team.  Key Takeaways:  Clarity Creates Confidence: Serena shares how shifting from confusion to clarity with her finances gave her the ability to make calm, strategic decisions in her business. The Right Support Team Matters: Finding a bookkeeping and accounting team who actually listened and provided her with timely numbers while communicating what they mean changed the game for her and her business.  Numbers and Intuition Go Hand in Hand: Serena explains how she balances gut instincts with financial data to steer her business forward. Growth Requires a Mindset Shift: Hiring a team and stepping into the visionary role required Serena to let go of old ways of working and embrace new levels of leadership. Financial Knowledge Equals Freedom: Knowing her numbers didn't just improve her bottom line, it gave Serena peace of mind and the confidence to make decisions and take calculated risks. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: How Knowing Your Numbers Creates Calm and Clarity (00:34) Serena's Journey Into Entrepreneurship & Her Work Now (04:35) Struggles with Early Financial Management & Finding the Right Money Team (08:22) How Kickstart Helped Serena Understand and Know Her Numbers (10:49) Balancing Gut Feelings with Data (13:23) Building Confidence as a CEO (14:23) Rate and Review Break (14:36) Hiring Decisions & Leadership Growth and Mindset (18:01) Using Your Numbers to Read Trends & Forecast for the Future (22:17) Deciding Whether or Not to DIY Bookkeeping (25:13) What's Next for Serena and The Dande Agency (28:26) Serena's Major Piece of Business Advice for Entrepreneurs (30:10) Outro: Like, share, and subscribe!   Connect with Serena: The Dande Agency Website | https://www.dandeagency.com/  Follow The Dande Agency on Instagram | @dandeagency   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

A lot of business owners look at budgeting as punishment for past money mistakes, but budgeting doesn't have to feel restrictive. In fact, budgeting can be used as a tool for freedom while protecting your business at the same time, especially if you allow yourself the space and time to plan.  In this episode, Danielle Hayden, reformed CFO and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., shares how to use budgeting as a tool for clarity, confidence, and intention in your business, and she explains why Q4 is the best time to reflect, reset, and plan for the year ahead, instead of waiting until January.  Key Takeaways:  Budgeting Is About Clarity, Not Restriction: Budgeting isn't punishment. It's a tool that provides direction, helps you spend with intention, and protects your vision for the year ahead. Pay Yourself with Confidence: Danielle breaks down the three key numbers every business owner should define: what you want to pay yourself, what you need to feel secure, and what you desire to feel free. Quarter 4 Is Your CEO Power Season: The most strategic business owners use Q4 to zoom out, reflect on what worked, and plan for the next year, so they start January with confidence, not chaos. Your Budget Should Reflect Your Real Season of Life: Whether you're scaling up, slowing down, or balancing big life changes, your budget should support the business season you're actually in, not the one you think you "should" be in. Overcome Financial Shame & Guilt: Fear and past money mistakes don't define you. By using strategy and support, you can rebuild confidence and step fully into your CEO role. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: How Budgeting Is About Stepping Into Your Role As CEO, Not Restriction (01:00) Why Q4 is the Most Strategic Time to Plan and Budget for Next Year (02:55) How to Set Aligned Revenue Goals and Map Out Investments with Intention (03:39) Budgeting for Your Real Season in Business and Life (04:42) Overcoming Financial Fear, Shame, and Money Stories with Strategy and Support (07:24) Outro: Like, share, and subscribe!   Resources: Free Downloadable Budgeting Template | kickstartaccountinginc.com/budget    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

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