In this episode of Finance for Founders, host Samuel welcomes Joe Seddon, founder and CEO of Zero Gravity. Joe shares his incredible journey from a single parent household in West Yorkshire to leading a thriving tech startup. They discuss valuable insights on fundraising, scaling a startup, and making social impact. Joe answers quick-fire questions about his life, inspirations, and productivity hacks, and provides advice for young entrepreneurs. He explains the mission, challenges, and successes of Zero Gravity, a platform designed to support talented students from low-opportunity backgrounds. Tune in for inspirational stories and actionable advice.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:51 Quick Fire Questions with Joe Seddon
01:17 Joe's Background and Key Advice
02:20 Favorite Books and Podcasts
03:07 Personal Preferences and Inspirations
04:17 Productivity Hacks and Sleep Importance
06:01 Flexible Working Hours at Zero Gravity
06:26 Historical Figures and Hidden Talents
08:06 Mantras and Skills to Learn
09:49 Essential Apps and Career Alternatives
11:15 Impact of Zero Gravity and Personal Reflections
13:50 Deep Dive into Zero Gravity's Mission
15:32 Challenges and Early Days of Zero Gravity
23:21 User Acquisition and Growth Hacking
31:10 Partnerships and Scaling Impact
33:45 Fundraising and Financial Management
42:16 Future Goals and Final Thoughts

Zero Gravity:
https://www.zerogravity.co.uk/

Linkedin profile:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeseddon/

Join Samuel Ajala as he interviews Greg Donnelly, co-founder of SoSquared, a pioneering influencer marketing platform, on 'Finance for Founders.'. Greg shares his journey from launching Portugal's first supermarket comparison site to building a thriving influencer marketplace with over 3,500 influencers and partnerships with major companies like Meta and TikTok. The discussion covers essential topics such as startup funding, scaling challenges, remote work dynamics, and key strategies for effective cash flow management. Insights include creating an MVP, securing seed funding, leveraging networking, scaling operations, and utilising advanced analytics and API integrations. Learn about the upcoming SaaS platform aimed at democratising influencer marketing for small and medium businesses, featuring a freemium model and educational elements. Greg emphasises persistence, user feedback, and the importance of networking, offering a comprehensive look at building and scaling a successful startup.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:32 Quick Fire Questions with Greg Donnelly
14:05 Deep Dive into SoulSquared
17:13 The SaaS Model and Future Plans
19:58 Founding Story and Early Challenges
28:43 Securing Funding and Investor Relations
34:48 Resource Allocation Strategies
38:15 First Big Client Acquisition
39:30 Cashflow and Operational Challenges
44:54 Remote vs. In-Office Work
48:57 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
54:04 Future Plans and Expansion
01:00:05 Competitors and Market Position
01:04:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

SoSquared Website:
https://sosquared.com/

Greg Donnelly Linkedin Page:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregdonnelly/

Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1nwQIIGnFbcFxwMOqNQS6m?si=LTHNLJYKSOmJxcM457BRZg

Apple podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/finance-for-founders-with-samuel-ajala/id1754190164?i=1000674423955

YouTube:
https://youtu.be/w2Aek_cNcOg?si=wwkFWalzIhRHlP7b

Join Samuel Ajala in a captivating episode of Finance for Founders as he introduces Helen Vines, a seasoned Chartered Tax Advisor specialising in capital allowances and remediation of contaminated land claims. Helen discusses her 20-year career in taxation, sharing insights into how businesses can maximise tax reliefs on capital expenditures. From helping hoteliers save 500K in tax to advising on the remediation of contaminated lands, Helen’s expertise can significantly benefit business owners. Tune in to learn about overlooked tax incentives and actionable strategies for reinvesting tax savings back into business growth. This episode is packed with valuable information for entrepreneurs and business professionals aiming to optimise their tax strategies.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:16 Helen Vines' Professional Journey
02:36 The Fascination with Taxation
03:52 Mentors and Influences in Taxation
05:20 Green and Sustainable Tax Incentives
07:11 Client Success Stories and Examples
08:57 Understanding Contaminated Land Tax Relief
14:43 Misconceptions and Challenges in Tax Claims
32:39 Satisfaction in the Construction Industry
33:47 Common Industries Missing Out on Claims
35:07 Capital Allowances in the Startup Industry
37:01 Remediation and Contaminated Land Claims
41:17 Case Studies and Client Success Stories
46:14 Future of Tax Savings and Sustainability
52:39 Career Advice and Personal Insights
01:01:01 Community Involvement and Final Thoughts

Helen Vine Profile:
Helen is the director of Vines Capital Allowances Limited who specialise with Capital allowances and Remediation of Contaminated Land advisory.

Experience, Expertise, Excellence

She can help with tax relief claims for businesses engaged in buying/selling, constructing, fitting out or refurbishing properties. Give her a call on our enquiry line 07726 860 618.

She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation (“CIOT”). The CIOT is the leading professional body in the UK for advisers dealing with all aspects of taxation. CIOT members, “Chartered Tax Advisers”, have to meet high professional standards which include:
• keeping up to date with new developments in tax and related areas,
• holding Professional Indemnity Insurance,
• being registered for AML supervision; and
• complying with a robust code of ethics.

In this episode of Finance for Founders, host Samuel Ajala welcomes Artie Varia, an expert in R&D tax incentives with over 17 years of experience. They delve into the intricacies of R&D tax credits, particularly for tech startups and SMEs. Artie shares her journey from audit to specialising in R&D tax, explains the recent changes in R&D tax legislation, and provides actionable advice for businesses looking to claim these benefits. Whether you're new to R&D tax credits or have been claiming for years, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you maximise your claims.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:15 Guest Background and Career Journey

08:37 Understanding R&D Tax Incentives

13:45 Case Studies and Success Stories

21:36 Common Misconceptions and Myths

25:03 Advice for New Claimants

30:33 Common Mistakes in R&D Claims

31:11 Tips for DIY R&D Claims

32:52 Biggest Mistakes and Penalties

36:06 Fraud and Mismanagement in R&D Claims

40:27 Future of R&D Tax Legislation

44:30 Impact of Grant Funding on R&D Claims

48:24 Misconceptions and Missed Opportunities for Startups

54:14 How R&D Tax Relief Works

58:14 Final Thoughts and Advice


You can listen to the full episode on:

🍏 ApplePodcast: https://shorturl.at/H9V6V

🎧 Spotify: https://shorturl.at/Ao5p1

📺 YouTube: https://youtu.be/DMcYFBEjWbs



Contact Aarti Varia:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aarti-variardtaxspecialist/

Website: https://www.itaxadvisors.co.uk/about-itax-advisors/senior-management/


In this podcast episode, host Samuel Ajala welcomes Artie Varia to discuss R&D (Research and Development) tax credits, especially important for tech startups. Artie, a qualified accountant with over 20 years of experience and specialisation in R&D tax incentives over the last 17 years, shares insights into R&D tax claims, common misconceptions, and the financial benefits for businesses, including startups. She provides practical advice, real-world examples, and explains the impact of recent legislative changes on R&D claims. The episode underscores the importance of appropriately claiming R&D tax credits to leverage financial resources for innovation and business growth.

In this episode of Finance for Founders, we welcome Emmanuel Asuquo, a qualified financial advisor with over 15 years of experience. Emmanuel shares his journey from growing up in East London's Tower Hamlets to becoming one of the youngest financial advisors at Barclays. He discusses the significant role his faith played in overcoming numerous barriers and achieving success. Emmanuel also delves into essential topics such as financial habits, debt management, investing strategies, generational wealth, and side hustles. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Emmanuel's wealth of knowledge and experience.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:20 Emmanuel Asuquo's Background and Career Journey
02:39 Personal Challenges and Faith
05:01 Transition to Social Media and Public Influence
07:34 Navigating Career and Financial Advice
12:20 The Role of Faith and Community
17:01 Money Mindset and Financial Habits
21:56 Debt and Borrowing Perspectives
24:35 Balancing Employment and Entrepreneurship
29:25 Investment Strategies and Advice
30:46 Investment Strategies: Beyond Instant Gratification
31:02 Exploring the S&P 500 and Diversified Funds
32:17 Investing in Individual Stocks: Practical Tips
33:17 The Importance of Aligning Investments with Personal Values
33:55 Property Investment: Strategies and Learning Opportunities
37:21 The Power of Networking and Adding Value
42:46 Understanding Wealth Management and Financial Advising
45:37 Future Plans and Scaling Business Ventures
47:58 Top Side Hustles and Practical Advice
54:10 Improving Credit Scores and Financial Health
55:01 Building and Protecting Generational Wealth
57:14 Conclusion and Contact Information


Listen to the full episode:

📺 YouTube: https://youtu.be/eoT6sn5p3qs
🍎 ApplePodcast: https://shorturl.at/xZdlQ
🎧 Spotify: https://shorturl.at/ieAIx

Connect with Emmanuel:

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/theemaneffectuk?igsh=ZWI4ZDY0c215Mnoz

Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmanuelasuquo/

Website:
https://onestopsave.com/

Emmanuel Asuquo Book:
https://shorturl.at/Vrwxw

Unlocking Real Estate Investment: SSAS Pensions Explained with Brian Harvey

Join host Samuel Ajala in this episode of Finance Founders as he welcomes special guest Brian Harvey, a SSAS pension consultant. Brian delves into the benefits of using SASS pensions to embark on property journeys, shares his own experiences, and provides insights into different types of investments and tax advantages available through SSAS pensions. The conversation covers practical steps on setting up SSAS pensions, examples of successful investments, considerations for joint ventures, and the nuances of commercial versus residential property investments. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone interested in leveraging their pensions for property investment.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:55 Brian Harvey's Background and SSAS Pension Introduction
02:15 First SSAS Pension Project: Commercial Property
05:24 SSAS Pension and Limited Company Interactions
08:17 Setting Up a SSAS Pension
10:40 Combining Pensions for Joint Ventures
13:24 Contribution Limits and Tax Advantages
14:59 Role and Responsibilities of SSAS Trustees
17:02 Pros and Cons of SSAS Pension Investments
20:31 Commercial vs. Residential Properties
22:03 Ideal Property Strategy for 2024
23:27 Commercial to Residential Conversions
24:38 Challenges with Retail Units
25:07 Industrial and Storage Units
27:09 Current Commercial Property Market Trends
27:44 Using SSAS for Business Investments
34:45 Third-Party Lending Risks
39:12 Setting Up and Managing a SSAS
40:20 Final Thoughts and Advice

Brian Harvey details:
Email: brian@retirement.capital
Mobile: 07584 521847

Brian Harvey Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-harvey-ssaspensions/

Discovery call meeting link:
https://calendly.com/brian-rc/45min?month=2024-05

🚀 New Podcast Episode Alert! 🚀

Ever wondered what it takes to become a successful property developer? 🏘️ In our latest episode of Finance for Founders, I had the privilege of sitting down with the legendary John Howard. With over four decades of experience and more than 4,000 property transactions under his belt, John offers priceless insights into the intricacies of property development, investment strategies, and the ever-evolving real estate market. He is also a Judge and Angel on Sky's popular TV show 'Property Elevator'.

Don't miss out on this treasure trove of knowledge! Tune in to learn about:

• Effective auction bidding strategies
• The potential and pitfalls of property flipping
• Leveraging different strategies in property investment

📺 YouTube:
🍎 Apple Podcast:
🎧 Spotify:

From Basement Startup to Nine-Figure Exit: Insights from Alexis Sikorsky
In this episode of Finance for Founders, host Samuel Ajala interviews special guest Alexis Sikorsky. Alexis shares his inspiring journey from launching a software company in his basement to making a nine-figure exit. They discuss the importance of knowing your numbers, having a strategic acquisition plan, and overcoming the challenges that come with rapid business growth. Alexis emphasises the need for a 'war chest,' building customer trust, and being honest with financial assessments. Tune in for valuable advice on navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, scaling your business, and preparing for a lucrative exit.

In this Episode, we discuss:

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
02:00 Alexis Sikorsky's Early Career and Ventures
04:26 Building and Scaling New Access
07:45 Navigating Challenges and Acquisitions
09:26 Lessons from Failures and Successes
16:26 The Importance of Early Acquisitions
17:35 Managing and Integrating Acquisitions
26:15 Overcoming Financial Crises and Personal Struggles
33:46 Early Entrepreneurial Experiences
34:16 Leadership vs. Management
35:22 Identifying Leadership Qualities
36:23 The Importance of Knowing Your Role
38:12 Navigating Today's Economy
40:39 Pursuing Passion in Business
41:51 Challenges and Rewards of Teaching
47:29 The Apex Methodology
49:09 Financial Literacy and Business Success
58:01 Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship
59:58 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs
01:04:14 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Make sure to get your copy of Alexis best-selling book "Cashing Out" here: https://amzn.eu/d/0bV52ght

Launching and growing a business can be unpredictable – so a clear vision and a strategy for exit is essential to navigate these choppy waters. If you’re not sure where you’re going and how to get there, feel weighed down by responsibility and tough decision-making, and struggle to balance work and personal life, Cashing Out is your lifeline. Using the time-tested, actionable APEX methodology for scaling businesses and avoiding common mistakes, this book provides proven strategies for CEOs and for visionary founders who want to sell to private equity and secure a life-changing deal.

Connect with Alexis on his website: https://www.asikorsky.com/my-book

Connect with Alexis on his Linkedin channel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-sikorsky-consulting/

Follow me on socials:
TikTok
Instagram
Linkedin

Listen to Finance For Founders Podcast on:
Apple music version -
Spotify version -