Optimum: LIVE!

Optimum: LIVE Episode 27 | Why your business can feel busy yet not make money

Why does it feel like you are working flat out… yet the money is not there?

In this episode of Optimum: LIVE, host Chris Dawes from Visual PR Productions is joined by Hannah Matthews, Head of Assurance & Accounts at Optimum Professional Services, to unpack one of the most common frustrations for business owners.

You can be busy, growing and generating sales… but still struggling with profitability and cash.

This episode breaks down exactly why that happens and, more importantly, what you can do about it.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why being busy does not always mean being profitable
• The four key metrics every business owner must understand
• Turnover vs profit and why “turnover is vanity, profit is sanity”
• How rising costs silently erode your margins
• Why your bank balance does not always reflect your success
• The importance of planning, monitoring and adapting your strategy
• Cash flow challenges, including late payments and stock issues
• Pricing confidence and the danger of undervaluing your services
• The reality of scaling a business and the “invisible line” of growth
• Why regular conversations with your accountant are critical

This is a practical, honest conversation for SME owners who feel like they are doing everything right but not seeing the financial results they expected.

If you want to take control of your numbers, understand what they are really telling you, and make better decisions for your business, this episode is essential viewing.

For tailored advice, visit www.optps.co.uk and speak to the team at Optimum Professional Services.

Subscribe for more real-world business insight and let us know in the comments if this resonates with your own experience.

#OptimumLive #BusinessAdviceUK #SMEFinance #CashFlowManagement

The episode can be watched and listened to from any of the following locations:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OptimumPS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimumProfessionalServices/live

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimum-ps

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xHt43HDhn7SipOn9euUTx?si=bd239b1d0dc2497d

This is a Visual PR Productions broadcast – “At Visual PR Productions, we produce authentic, engaging, conversation-led video content and broadcasts. No scripts, no hard sell, just genuine, credible dialogue. Whether it’s for marketing, podcasts, training, panel shows, live events, or inductions, we help everyone feel at ease on either side of the camera. Then, with smart automation, we repurpose and share your content across the platforms that matter.”

https://www.visual-pr.co.uk/
[email protected]

@visualpruk 

Optimum: LIVE! Episode 26 - A Typical Annual Optimum Journey

What actually happens when you work with an accountant over the course of a year?

In this episode of Optimum: LIVE, host Chris Dawes from Visual PR Productions is joined by Optimum Partner Mike Blaken to walk through a typical annual journey for an Optimum client. From pre year end reviews and tax planning to payroll checks, director salary planning, face-to-face meetings and year-end accounts, this is a behind-the-scenes look at how proactive accountancy should really work.

This is not just about filing accounts and submitting tax returns. It is about communication, confidence and forward planning.

In this episode, we cover:

• The nine-month pre-year-end review and why timing matters
• Managing directors’ loan accounts and avoiding tax traps
• Planning for pension contributions and capital purchases
• Why face-to-face meetings uncover opportunities you might otherwise miss
• Payroll reviews for directors and National Insurance thresholds
• Childcare allowances and hidden tax implications
• Forward planning for growth, staff, premises and equipment
• Business acquisitions, due diligence and strategic advice
• Why year-end accounts should never come as a surprise

Whether you are a start-up, an established SME or scaling quickly, this episode explains how ongoing advice and regular conversations can reduce stress, improve decision-making and help you build a more resilient business.

If you have questions about your own annual business journey, visit www.optps.co.uk and speak to the team at Optimum Professional Services.

Subscribe for more practical business insight, and let us know in the comments what stage of your journey you are currently in.

#BusinessAdviceUK #TaxPlanningUK #SMEFinance #OptimumLive

The episode can be watched and listened to from any of the following locations:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OptimumPS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimumProfessionalServices/live

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimum-ps

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xHt43HDhn7SipOn9euUTx?si=bd239b1d0dc2497d

This is a Visual PR Productions broadcast – “At Visual PR Productions, we produce authentic, engaging, conversation-led video content and broadcasts. No scripts, no hard sell, just genuine, credible dialogue. Whether it’s for marketing, podcasts, training, panel shows, live events, or inductions, we help everyone feel at ease on either side of the camera. Then, with smart automation, we repurpose and share your content across the platforms that matter.”

https://www.visual-pr.co.uk/
[email protected]

@visualpruk 

Optimum: LIVE Episode 25 – The Top 5 Myths of Auditing

Is an audit just checking the numbers? Only for companies in trouble? Outdated and inflexible? Think again.

In this episode of Optimum: LIVE, host Chris Dawes from Visual PR Productions is joined by Hannah Matthews (Head of Assurance and Accounts) and Tom Absalom (Audit Senior) from Optimum Professional Services to tackle the five most common myths surrounding auditing.

Whether you're running a company, charity or academy, or just want to understand the true role of auditors, this episode gives clear, honest insight into what audits really involve, how they’ve changed, and what they can do for your organisation.

What we cover:

• Why audits are not just about numbers
• The difference between governance, risk and financial accuracy
• What auditors really look for — and why it matters
• Misunderstandings about fraud, systems and personal spend
• How audits vary for academies, charities and SMEs
• The evolving role of auditors and why choosing the right team matters

This one-take, free-flowing discussion is designed to bust misconceptions, demystify audit jargon and show how the audit process can actually add value.

Need advice or want to speak with the team? Visit www.optps.co.uk

#AuditMyths #UKAuditExplained #SMEFinanceUK #OptimumLive

Subscribe to the channel, leave a comment with your business goals, and follow us for more practical insights in 2026.

The episode can be watched and listened to from any of the following locations:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OptimumPS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimumProfessionalServices/live

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimum-ps

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xHt43HDhn7SipOn9euUTx?si=bd239b1d0dc2497d

This is a Visual PR Productions broadcast – “At Visual PR Productions, we produce authentic, engaging, conversation-led video content and broadcasts. No scripts, no hard sell, just genuine, credible dialogue. Whether it’s for marketing, podcasts, training, panel shows, live events, or inductions, we help everyone feel at ease on either side of the camera. Then, with smart automation, we repurpose and share your content across the platforms that matter.”

https://www.visual-pr.co.uk/
[email protected]

@visualpruk

Optimum: LIVE! Episode 24 - Christmas Musings of New Year Business Plans

In this festive edition of Optimum: LIVE!, Chris Dawes of Visual PR Productions is joined by Optimum Professional Services' Michael Blaken for a relaxed end-of-year conversation about planning ahead for 2026.

As the year winds down, the team reflect on some of the big themes and common challenges faced by business owners in 2025, while looking ahead to how individuals and organisations can get a head start on the new year

From tax deadlines and business structure reviews to personal finance checks and goal setting, this episode offers a mix of insight, advice, and a bit of light-hearted chat to wrap up the year.

In that period between Christmas and New Year, it is often an ideal time for business owners to think and doodle or brainstorm frank and creative thoughts and ideas down on paper. What is working and what isn’t? What new ideas do you have for the new year? What could that new business idea look like? And so many more thoughts that could spark in that quiet moment at this time of year.

In this episode:

• Reflections on the year in business
• What to consider before your financial year-end
• The benefits of forward planning in business and tax
• Creating achievable personal and business goals
• Allow your Christmas musings to be free and creative, but don’t try to come to conclusions on your own
• The importance of regular conversations with your accountant

Whether you're winding down or gearing up for a busy January, this is a timely and useful listen for business owners, sole traders and anyone managing personal or company finances.

To speak with the team or get ahead with your plans, visit www.optps.co.uk

Subscribe to the channel, leave a comment with your business goals, and follow us for more practical insights in 2026.

#NewYearBusinessPlanning #YearEndAdviceUK #TaxPlanning2026 #OptimumLive
 

The episode can be watched and listened to from any of the following locations:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OptimumPS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimumProfessionalServices/live

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimum-ps

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xHt43HDhn7SipOn9euUTx?si=bd239b1d0dc2497d

This is a Visual PR Productions broadcast – “At Visual PR Productions, we produce authentic, engaging, conversation-led video content and broadcasts. No scripts, no hard sell, just genuine, credible dialogue. Whether it’s for marketing, podcasts, training, panel shows, live events, or inductions, we help everyone feel at ease on either side of the camera. Then, with smart automation, we repurpose and share your content across the platforms that matter.”

https://www.visual-pr.co.uk/
[email protected]

@visualpruk 

What did the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget 2025 actually deliver, and how will it affect you or your business?

In this episode of Optimum: LIVE, recorded the morning after the Budget announcement, host Chris Dawes of Visual PR Productions sits down with Michael Blaken (Accounts Director) and Jon Lacey (Finance Director) from Optimum Professional Services to explore the key takeaways and their real-world impact.

This is a free-flowing, one-take conversation that cuts through the headlines and soundbites to bring you practical insight and plain-English analysis. Whether you're a business owner, company director, landlord, employee or self-employed, this episode breaks it all down into bite-sized, easy-to-digest chunks.

We cover:

·        Headline tax and allowance changes for individuals and businesses

·        What it means for employers and the self-employed

·        National Insurance, pensions and investment-related updates

·        Impacts on property, inheritance, and capital gains

·        What steps should you consider now and in the months ahead

This is your opportunity to hear professional insight from Optimum’s finance experts just hours after the Autumn Budget was delivered.

To speak to the team or find out how the Budget changes may affect your circumstances, visit www.optps.co.uk

Subscribe, comment and share for more timely financial insight and guidance.

#AutumnBudget2025 #UKTaxUpdate #BusinessFinanceUK #OptimumLive

The episode can be watched and listened to from any of the following locations:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OptimumPS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimumProfessionalServices/live

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimum-ps

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xHt43HDhn7SipOn9euUTx?si=bd239b1d0dc2497d

This is a Visual PR Productions broadcast – “At Visual PR Productions, we produce authentic, engaging, conversation-led video content and broadcasts. No scripts, no hard sell, just genuine, credible dialogue. Whether it’s for marketing, podcasts, training, panel shows, live events, or inductions, we help everyone feel at ease on either side of the camera. Then, with smart automation, we repurpose and share your content across the platforms that matter.”

https://www.visual-pr.co.uk/
[email protected]

Optimum: LIVE Episode 22 - MTD for ITSA – What it really means for you

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD for ITSA) is coming, and if you’re self-employed or a landlord, the rules are changing significantly. In this episode of Optimum: LIVE, hosted by Chris Dawes from Visual PR Productions, we are joined by Optimum’s Kaci Luker (Accountant) and Mandy Gibson (Tax Supervisor) to explain what this major change means for you.

From whom it affects to what you’ll need to do differently, we break down MTD in simple, practical terms. This is essential viewing for anyone earning income outside of PAYE, especially sole traders, property landlords, and anyone currently submitting self-assessment tax returns.

In this episode, we cover:

• What MTD for ITSA actually is
• Who needs to comply and when it starts
• What quarterly submissions will look like in practice
• The impact on software, bookkeeping and deadlines
• Why acting early could save you time, money and stress

Whether you’re an individual preparing for the change or a business advising clients, this conversation will give you clarity and confidence ahead of the new requirements.

For help getting MTD-ready, visit www.optps.co.uk to speak with the team at Optimum Professional Services.

Subscribe, follow and share if you found this useful, and let us know your questions in the comments.

The episode can be watched and listened to from any of the following locations:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OptimumPS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimumProfessionalServices/live

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimum-ps

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xHt43HDhn7SipOn9euUTx?si=bd239b1d0dc2497d

This is a Visual PR Productions broadcast – “At Visual PR Productions, we produce authentic, engaging, conversation-led video content and broadcasts. No scripts, no hard sell, just genuine, credible dialogue. Whether it’s for marketing, podcasts, training, panel shows, live events, or inductions, we help everyone feel at ease on either side of the camera. Then, with smart automation, we repurpose and share your content across the platforms that matter.”

https://www.visual-pr.co.uk/
[email protected]

Optimum: LIVE Episode 21 - How Much Can You Actually Earn Tax-Free in the UK?

In this slightly tongue-in-cheek episode of Optimum: LIVE, Chris and Michael take a clear and practical look at one of the most common questions asked by individuals and small business owners alike:
"How much money can I actually earn without paying tax?"

It’s not just about the personal allowance. With multiple thresholds and tax-free bands across income, dividends, savings and capital gains, understanding what you can really earn tax-free in the UK has never been more important.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

• Personal Allowance
• Trading Allowance
• Property Allowance
• Rent-a-Room Relief
• Dividend Allowance
• Savings Allowance
• Starting Race for Savings
• Capital Gains Tax Allowance
• ISA Savings Interest
• Premium Bond Winnings
• With an overarching discussion of how to structure your income for maximum tax efficiency

Whether you're self-employed, employed, drawing dividends, or earning from multiple sources, this episode offers simple, up-to-date guidance to help you keep more of what you earn.

Need tailored tax advice? Visit www.optps.co.uk to speak with the team at Optimum Professional Services.

Like, subscribe, share and comment if you found this useful — and let us know what tax topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes.

#TaxFreeIncome #PersonalAllowanceUK #DividendTax #OptimumLive

The episode can be watched and listened to from any of the following locations:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OptimumPS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimumProfessionalServices/live

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimum-ps

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xHt43HDhn7SipOn9euUTx?si=bd239b1d0dc2497d

This is a Visual PR Productions broadcast – “At Visual PR Productions, we produce authentic, engaging, conversation-led video content and broadcasts. No scripts, no hard sell, just genuine, credible dialogue. Whether it’s for marketing, podcasts, training, panel shows, live events, or inductions, we help everyone feel at ease on either side of the camera. Then, with smart automation, we repurpose and share your content across the platforms that matter.”

https://www.visual-pr.co.uk/
[email protected]

Optimum: LIVE Episode 20 – Things to Consider Before Selling a Business

Thinking of selling your business? In this episode of Optimum: LIVE, Chris and Michael explore the essential steps every business owner should take before starting the sale process.

Selling up isn’t just about agreeing a sale price — it's about preparation, structure, and understanding the tax and legal implications. Whether you're looking to retire, cash in, or move on to your next venture, this episode is packed with practical insights.

They discuss:

• Why timing matters when planning a business sale
• The importance of financial clarity and tidy accounts
• How your business structure can impact tax and legal outcomes
• What buyers really want to see during due diligence
• When to involve accountants, solicitors, and advisors in the process

Whether you’re planning to sell in a year or five, it's never too early to start thinking ahead.

For tailored advice on business exit planning, visit www.optps.co.uk to speak to our team today.

Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments — we may cover them in a future episode.

#SellingABusiness #BusinessExitPlanning #TaxAdviceUK #OptimumLive

The episode can be watched and listened to from any of the following locations:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OptimumPS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimumProfessionalServices/live

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimum-ps

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xHt43HDhn7SipOn9euUTx?si=bd239b1d0dc2497d

This is a Visual PR Productions broadcast – “At Visual PR Productions, we produce authentic, engaging, conversation-led video content and broadcasts. No scripts, no hard sell, just genuine, credible dialogue. Whether it’s for marketing, podcasts, training, panel shows, live events, or inductions, we help everyone feel at ease on either side of the camera. Then, with smart automation, we repurpose and share your content across the platforms that matter.”

https://www.visual-pr.co.uk/
[email protected]

Companies House New ID Checks Are Here – Are You Ready? – Optimum: LIVE Ep. 19

In this must-watch episode of Optimum: LIVE, Chris is joined by Operations Director Tracey Heath to break down new ID verification rules from Companies House that affect every UK company director and person of significant control (PSC).

From April 2025, these changes began rolling out - but by Autumn 2026, compliance will be mandatory. If you’re a company owner, director, or accountant, this one’s essential viewing.

You’ll learn:

• What identity verification at Companies House actually means
• Who needs to take action (and when)
• What documents you’ll need and how to get your unique code
• How this change links to economic crime prevention and business transparency
• Why it’s better to act now, not later!

Optimum Professional Services are here to help – from our Cheltenham to Swindon offices, we’ll support you through the process with clear guidance and in-person support if needed.

Need advice or want to book a session? Visit https://www.optps.co.uk/companies-house-verification to check out our latest blog post for step-by-step info.

https://signin.account.gov.uk/sign-in-or-create to create or log in to your account.

👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments – or tag someone who needs to see this!

#CompaniesHouse #CompaniesHouseIDVerification #BusinessCompliance #UKDirectors #OptimumLive

The stream can be watched and listened to from any of the following locations:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OptimumPS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimumProfessionalServices/live

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimum-ps

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xHt43HDhn7SipOn9euUTx?si=bd239b1d0dc2497d

This is a Visual PR Productions broadcast – “At Visual PR Productions, we produce authentic, engaging, conversation-led video content and broadcasts. No scripts, no hard sell, just genuine, credible dialogue. Whether it’s for marketing, podcasts, training, panel shows, live events, or inductions, we help everyone feel at ease on either side of the camera. Then, with smart automation, we repurpose and share your content across the platforms that matter.”

https://www.visual-pr.co.uk/
[email protected]

🎥 Optimum Live Ep. 18 | Financial Considerations for Your Buy-to-Let Property - Company or Personal?

Recorded Monday 16th June 2025

Should you buy a rental property through a company or in your own name? It’s a huge decision - and not a simple one.

In this episode of Optimum: Live! Host Chris Dawes gets Michael Blaken from Optimum Professional Services to break it all down. From mortgage implications and stamp duty to tax treatment and future flexibility, we cut through the confusion to help you make a more informed choice.

🏡 Whether you’re a first-time landlord or you’re growing a portfolio, we’ll walk you through:
 ✅ Why many landlords are turning to limited companies
 ✅ The pros and cons of buying through a company vs buying personally
 ✅ How mortgage conditions, tax and stamp duty all affect your profits
 ✅ Why your future plans — whether you want rental income or a portfolio to pass on — may dictate the best route for you

Don’t let confusion cost you. Get tailored advice from the team at Optimum.

➡ Want to know what’s right for you and your portfolio? Visit https://www.optps.co.uk/ or get in touch today for a bespoke consultation.

👍 Like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your questions — we’d love to help you navigate your property journey.

The stream can be watched and listened to from any of the following locations:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OptimumPS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OptimumProfessionalServices/live

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimum-ps

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1xHt43HDhn7SipOn9euUTx?si=bd239b1d0dc2497d

#PropertyInvestment #BuyToLetUK #CompanyVsPersonal #OptimumLive

This is a Visual PR Productions broadcast – At Visual PR Productions, we produce authentic, engaging, conversation-led video content and broadcasts. No scripts, no hard sell, just genuine, credible dialogue. Whether it’s for marketing, podcasts, training, panel shows, live events, or inductions, we help everyone feel at ease on either side of the camera. Then, with smart automation, we repurpose and share your content across the platforms that matter.

https://www.visual-pr.co.uk/
[email protected]