Build and Exit

By Julie WilkinsonBusiness Entrepreneurship Investing Management

Build and Exit episodes

June 03 Your Finance Works. So Why Don't You Trust It? | Build & Exit Podcast
Your finance is technically working. So why does something still feel off?
In this solo episode Julie Wilkinson breaks down one of the most consistent patterns she is seeing across scaling businesses right now: finance is in place, teams are in place, reporting is in place — but business owners are still struggling to trust their numbers and make confident decisions.
Julie explains why the problem is rarely the finance function itself, and almost always the flow of information between operational teams and finance. When that flow breaks down, cash lands in the wrong place, reports get reworked every week, and leaders stall on decisions they should be able to make quickly.
She walks through a practical example — the customer who does not pay on time — and shows exactly where the process breaks, who owns each part of it, and what needs to change for leaders to get confidence back in their numbers.
If you are running a business where finance works on paper but does not always feel reliable in practice, this episode is for you.
16 min
November 17, 2025Why Your Finance Function Might Be Holding You Back with Julie Wilkinson
Is your accountant really enough to protect your business?
In this episode, I break down the five critical financial skill sets that most business owners are missing. Drawing from financial compliance audits and surveys of over 200 SME owners, I reveal why profitable businesses still run out of cash and how hidden risks are costing you thousands without you even knowing.
You'll discover real case studies including a business that lost £150,000 in unprocessed expenses, another that missed £85,000 in unbilled sales, and a post-acquisition disaster that uncovered a £750,000 discrepancy. Whether you're scaling through acquisition or preparing for exit, these skills will help you transform your business from a lifestyle into a valuable asset that runs without you.
Every business we've audited has at least a 10% cash leak somewhere. Learn how to find yours and fix it before it's too late.

“Business owners don't actually know what finance can do.” – Julie Wilkinson

You’ll hear about:
Why "I've got an accountant" leaves you vulnerable to hidden risks
Financial literacy: understanding cash flow, margins, and break-even points
Forecasting and scenario planning to protect against business-killing risks
Data interpretation and why monthly margin fluctuations signal deeper problems
Digital finance and automation to prevent operational cash leaks
Commercial and strategic thinking for sustainable business growth

Connect With Julie Wilkinson

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/

Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/

Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
31 min
October 19, 2025How a group credit rating dropped by £700k because of one failed acquisition with Gavin Page
Ever wondered what happens when an acquisition doesn’t go to plan?
In this episode, I speak with Gavin Page, a serial entrepreneur with 28 years in business and a decade of buy-and-build experience. Gavin grew a group of nine companies turning over more than £8 million, but one failed acquisition changed everything.
We dive into the reality of scaling through acquisition, from structuring deals and navigating distressed purchases to the unexpected fallout from Royal Mail strikes and rising energy costs. Gavin shares how overleveraging, weak management teams, and unforeseen market changes can bring down even the most carefully structured groups.
But this isn’t just a cautionary tale. Gavin reveals how he rebuilt after collapse, why he now mentors buyers and sellers to avoid the same pitfalls, and what he’s learned about resilience, due diligence, and leadership in high-stakes M&A.
If you’re considering buying a business or preparing your own exit you’ll want to hear this one to the end.

“Trust your gut — my biggest mistake was letting my ego say yes when my instinct said no.” – Gavin Page

You’ll hear about:
Gavin’s first acquisition and how it all began
Lessons from buying a £1 distressed company
The Royal Mail strikes and Amazon refunds crisis
How overleveraging can destroy a profitable group
Energy price shocks and their impact on M&A
The importance of strong financial due diligence
Avoiding personal risk through smart deal structure
Leadership, management teams, and accountability
Rebuilding purpose after business failure
Coaching others to buy and sell wisely

Connect With Gavin Page

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/expertdealmaker/

Transition 360 Partners - https://www.transition360partners.co.uk/

Connect With Julie Wilkinson

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/

Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/

Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
37 min
August 31, 2025Valuations: Fiction vs. Finance: What paper valuations say vs what they really mean
What really determines the value of a business?
In this episode I sit down with Saul Cohen, CEO of The Expert Eye, to explore the mechanics behind valuation and why it is never just about the numbers.
We look at how strong financial controls and a clear understanding of EBITDA give both buyers and sellers confidence, and how risk management can make or break a deal.
Saul and I also unpack the role governance plays in SMEs and why culture and people are often the hidden drivers of efficiency and value creation.
We discuss the responsibilities business owners must accept if they want to maximise their exit options, and challenge some common misconceptions around the role of brokers in the sales process.
If you want to understand what makes a business truly valuable and how to position yours for the best possible outcome, you need to listen to this episode.

"Valuation is never just numbers, it’s people and risk.” – Saul Cohen

You’ll hear about:
Why understanding financial controls is crucial for business valuation.
EBITDA being a key metric in assessing business performance.
How risk management directly impacts business valuation multiples.
SMEs often overlook operational risks during due diligence.
People and culture significantly affect compliance and operational efficiency.
Systems and processes being essential for effective governance.
Why business owners must take accountability for their financial literacy.
Brokers can provide valuable insights, but owners must challenge their valuations.
Financial literacy is lacking in the SME sector, impacting decision-making.

Connect With Saul Cohen

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cohensaul/
The Expert Eye - https://theexperteye.co.uk/

Connect With Julie Wilkinson

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/

Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/

Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
56 min
August 11, 2025Grew to £12m per year adding 23x onto the value of the company with Sam Penny
What happens when a casual side hustle explodes into a million-dollar-a-month enterprise almost overnight?
In this episode I am joined by Sam Penny, founder of Cheese Therapy, who scaled his cheese distribution business by 23x during the COVID-19 pandemic, in 18 months before choosing to exit.
Sam takes us behind the scenes of his explosive growth, unexpected founder departure, and the moment he realised he was no longer energised enough to keep going.
Sam opens up about the real cost of building a brand too dependent on its founders, and what he wishes he’d done differently to stay “sale ready.”
Whether you're planning to grow through acquisition, raise capital, or exit entirely, Sam’s story is packed with hard-earned lessons that could save you time, energy, and equity.
" You don’t sell your business when you’re exhausted, you sell it when you're energised.” – Sam Penny
You’ll hear about:
How bushfires and COVID catalysed a 23x surge in revenue
• Why relying too heavily on founders can limit long-term business value
• The importance of building SOPs and internal systems early
• How co-founder departures can derail momentum
• Why founder energy impacts valuations more than you think
• The most overlooked steps to becoming “sale ready” before burnout hits

Connect With Sam Penny

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sampenny/
Sam’s Linktree - https://sampenny.com/pages/start

Connect With Julie Wilkinson

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/

Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/

Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
41 min
July 20, 2025Buy and Build success: From employment to acquiring a £4m group
What happens when a successful pharmacist gives up his career to buy a care business—just weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic?
In this episode, Chike Nwangwu, Managing Director of Nash Homecare and the BESDA Group, shares how he built a £4M care group through four strategic acquisitions in just five years.
Chike breaks down the emotional and operational challenges of buying a business, from navigating sudden lockdowns to managing sceptical teams and sceptical family members.
Discover how he transitioned from corporate stability to entrepreneurial uncertainty—and the strategies that helped him not only survive but thrive.
"Building rapport with the seller can make or break an acquisition.” – Chike Nwangwu

You’ll hear about:
How to transition safely from a corporate career into business ownership
The critical role of team dynamics and internal leadership in acquisition success
Lessons learned from completing two deals simultaneously, including a £1.2M+ acquisition
Why building your team before you grow is the secret weapon to scaling
How to avoid the trap of “buying yourself a job”

Connect With Chike Nwangwu

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chikenwangwu/

Connect With Julie Wilkinson

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/

Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/

Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
34 min
June 29, 2025134% Swings: Welcome to the Subjective World of Valuations with Rob Goddard
Think Your Business is Worth More? Here’s What Buyers Are Really Looking At.

Sellers often feel let down by their business valuation. There is a key principle that they overlook from the start of building their business that has a huge impact – their financial literacy.

In this episode I am joined by Rob Goddard, seasoned M&A advisor, to unpack the real financial truths behind selling—or buying—a business.

We break down the myths and misconceptions around business valuations, why adjusted EBITDA is more than just a buzzword, and the critical role financial literacy plays in building business value.

You’ll also hear how real-world businesses prepared for sale, the impact of operations on valuation, and the key team members you need to get top offers when it’s time to exit.

If you're building to sell—or just want to run a smarter business—this is the financial deep dive you can't afford to miss.

"You need a robust financial report to sell.” – Rob Goddard

You’ll hear about:
The fact valuations often differ from perceived value due to various factors.
Why a business's true value cannot be determined solely by financial statements.
Financial literacy being a significant gap among many entrepreneurs.
Robust financial processes are necessary for successful business sales.
Why investing in financial management can lead to better business outcomes.
How misleading ad backs can inflate business valuations unjustly.
Outdated processes hindering business operations and financial accuracy.
Building a competent team is essential for business growth and saleability

Connect With Rob Goddard

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robgoddard/

S-Cubed Advisory - https://s-cubedadvisory.com/

Connect With Julie Wilkinson

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/

Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/

Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
50 min
May 11, 2025The hidden truth behind business valuation with Julie Wilkinson
Are you having a negative impact on the value of your business?
So many business owners aren’t aware of the effect they are having on the value of their business before sale. They take on too many roles across the business, aren’t tracking what they pay themselves over the year, and all this impacts what they could be taking home from selling it further down the line.
In this episode I go into the fundamentals of financial concepts all business owners should know to be able to sell their business for as much as possible. I cover EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA and the impacts of salaries and dividends on valuations.
With enough knowledge and a few adjustments, you can maximise what you can sell your business for.

Listen up to find out how!

"Are the decision you make maximising profit?" – Julie

You’ll hear about:
Why adjusted EBITDA is crucial for understanding business value during sales.
The accruals concept helps match income with costs for accurate financial reporting.
Business owners often overlook the impact of their roles on company valuation.
Dividends taken by owners can distort profit margins and business valuation.

Connect With Julie Wilkinson

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/

Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/

Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
30 min
April 27, 2025Triple Business Value by Changing Operational Structures with Julie Wilkinson
Will the business you are building last beyond you?
Many business owners are building a lifestyle business rather than one for generational wealth. If you want to create a legacy rather than a job it all starts with you.
In this, my first solo podcast episode, I explore what it means to build a legacy with your business and what you need to do to prepare for the future if you aim to sell your business.
From understanding what generational wealth means, to implementing effective governance structures. I highlight the challenges of scaling a business and the role of financial leadership in ensuring operational efficiency and long-term success.
It’s not too late to create your legacy, listen up to find out how!
"Are you building a legacy or a job?" – Julie

You’ll hear about:
Educating business owners on acquisition and exit strategies.
Financial controls are essential for scaling a business effectively.
Generational wealth means creating a business that lasts beyond the owner.
Many businesses fail to sell due to lack of preparation and knowledge.
A CFO can provide strategic value, but timing is key.

Connect With Julie Wilkinson
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/

Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/

Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
25 min
April 13, 2025The untold truth - the emotional toll of selling a business with Luke Winter
Selling your business can feel lonely and emotional.
You are parting with the thing you have devoted a significant portion of your life to, and that can feel hard. But beyond that is an opportunity to re-invent yourself.
In this episode I speak with Luke Winter, a creative director who recently sold his shares in the video agency Wallbreaker. Luke shares with great honesty the emotional toll the sale has had on him. From the moment of knowing it was time to try something new to a final week full of doubt, Luke experienced it all.
Now, with the opportunity to explore his next steps, Luke emphasis the need for support and understanding during this transformative time.

"It was a lonely experience." – Luke

You’ll hear about:
The emotional toll of selling is often underestimated.
It's important to have support during the selling process.
Many entrepreneurs feel lonely when selling their business.
Routine changes can impact mental health during transitions.
Navigating the sale requires clear communication between parties.
Connect with Luke Winters:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-winter-75a2885a/

Connect With Julie Wilkinson

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewilkinson-accounting/
Tik Tok – https://www.tiktok.com/@wasolutions
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUvq6gfNoP_4dfIJulL6C6A
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wilkinsonaccountingsolutions
Website - https://wilkinsonaccountingsolutions.co.uk/

Find out more about our brilliant sponsor Acquisition Masters here - https://www.acquisitionmasters.co.uk/

Before you go, don’t forget to leave a comment and review if you got something out of this episode!
34 min

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Build and Exit

Build and Exit episodes

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