Broke Business Emma Edwards

How to Overcome Tax Time Anxiety with Mandy Stonard 

Tax time can be a source of anxiety and fear for many business owners due to the complexity and uncertainty surrounding tax obligations. The pressure to accurately file taxes, the fear of audits, and the possibility of unexpected financial liabilities can all contribute to this unease. However, there are effective ways to overcome tax time anxiety. Firstly, staying organised throughout the year by maintaining well-organised records and financial documents can significantly reduce last-minute stress. If you want more of these golden tips, join this conversation with Mandy Stonard and learn more. 

Mandy Stonard from H&R Block will help us squash that signature tax time anxiety. Whether it's getting a MyGov inbox message or stressing over getting audited (seriously, why is this my nightmare?), tax time can be a big worry for many businesses. Mandy explains what needs to happen at tax time, how to ensure you're compliant, and what happens if you do get flagged by the ATO.

Episode Highlights:


[00:01] Episode intro and what’s in for you today with Mandy Stonard
[03:00] A quick snapshot of who Mandy is and what she does 
[04:38] Why business owners have anxiety and fear during tax time
[06:27] The unnecessary stress on tax and what we can do
[09:32] How concrete record keeping can keep you in control over tax-time anxiety
[10:08] How long should you be keeping your business records 
[11:25] Good record-keeping best practices in this digital era
[14:56] Commercial break
[17:07] What happens if you get flagged by ATO for non-compliance
[20:48] Why self-education is not always factored in as a business expense
[24:55] What you should be doing to avoid the tax bill shock
[32:20] Reserving tax if you are doing a side hustle besides your main business
[33:52] ATO tax payment plans you should know
[40:00] Wrap up and end of the show

Standout Quotes:


“A concrete record keeping in your business is not only a way of helping you control your anxiety during tax time. It is the only solution.”- Mandy [09:33]
“ATO has a certain expectation of income vs. expenses of any business level. If your expenses are a lot higher than your income, the ATO will be drawn to find out why."- Mandy [17:14]
“Self-education is still one of the grey areas in tax. Sometimes you may incur an expense from your business to further education that is related to your business, but the tax auditor declines to accept that deduction.” - Mandy [20:48]
“Though ATO provides flexible tax payment plans, they will overcharge you. On the brighter side, you will have the extra flow of money for your business just in case you meet investment opportunities. ”- Mandy [34:42]

Mentioned in this episode:H&R Block tax course: https://www.hrblock.com.au/income-tax-course/

Thanks to our Season Sponsor, H&R Block.

As Australia’s leading tax experts, the team is here to help, offering ongoing support for individuals and small businesses and FREE BAS services for all newcomers. Get more, for sure, with H&R Block.

Visit hrblock.com.au to book an appointment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Art of Being Brave in Business with Iolanthe Gabrie

Being brave in business is all about embracing courage and taking bold steps. It means having the audacity to pursue innovative ideas, face challenges head-on, and make tough decisions without fear. Playing it safe often leads to stagnation and missed opportunities, so pushing boundaries, thinking outside the box, and embracing calculated risks is the way to go for any successful business. Additionally, bravery fosters a culture of resilience, encouraging teams to take the initiative and explore other territories. Join this conversation with Iolanthe Gabrie, and let’s chat more about that.

Iolanthe Gabrie is a sought-after digital marketing authority, business mentor, and author. She builds exceptional online voices and develops productive, engaged communities across social media platforms for individuals, businesses, and organsations. In this episode, Lolathe talks about the importance of bravery and gumption in business.

Tune in!

Episode Highlights:


[00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guest; Iolanthe Gabrie
[02:17] Iolanthe’s backstory and the value she brings to the business space
[03:14] Importance of bravery in business and why Iolanthe wrote about it
[05:36] Why Iolanthe’s book, 100 Days of Brave, is so valuable
[08:07] What you can do to become a confident business owner
[10:36] Some things that separate a business that succeeds and one that does not
[18:32] Commercial Break
[20:28] The role of bootstrapping in the long-term success of a business
[34:24] Facts about when you become a new business owner
[35:30] Who Iolanthe describe herself as in business?
[42:06] Call to action and ending the show

Standout Quotes:


 “When you make a decision to become self employed, you have to be brave because you are turning to what you generationally used to call a way of securing a a life of freedom. You are choosing to be totally self-reliant in taking full responsibility for your financial well-being.”- Iolanthe [03:47]
“Dreaming it does not automatically guarantee you to earn it. You need more than that. You need grit, a support network, and a sound mental health. Self employment is not something to take lightly.”-Iolanthe [05:46]
“One of the differences between a business that succeeds and one that fails is relentlessness.”-Iolanthe [10:37]
“Bootstrapping only serves a business when it is at its most tight cashflow stage, mostly at its first year of business.” - Iolanthe [20:29]

Resources Mentioned


100 DAYS OF BRAVE by Iolanthe Gabrie: https://www.100daysofbrave.com/shop/p/100-days-of-brave

Stay ConnectedIolanthe Gabrie

Personal Website: https://iolanthegabrie.com/

Company’s Website: https://www.100daysofbrave.com/

Facebook: https://facebook.com/rubyassembly

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/100daysofbrave/

Emma Edwards

Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816

LinkedIn: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration

Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration

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Thanks to our Season Sponsor H&R Block.

As Australia’s leading tax experts, the team are here to help, offering on-going support for individuals and small businesses, and FREE BAS services for all newcomers. Get more, for sure, with H&R Block. 

Visit hrblock.com.au to book an appointment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

3 things business owners need to know this EOFY

During this time of the year, when we're immersed in thoughts and preparations for tax and the upcoming financial year, it's crucial for you as a business owner to address this less glamorous topic, “tax deductions.”  While it may not be the most thrilling topic for business owners to contemplate, understanding tax deductions can be incredibly empowering. Taking charge of your taxes not only alleviates stress but also allows you to feel confident about your business's financial success. Staying informed about changes and updates related to tax claims will be a crucial part of this process, ensuring a smoother and less stressful experience. With a proactive approach to taxes, you can focus more on growing your business and feeling positive about its profitability.

In this episode, we are joined by Mandy Stonard from our season sponsor, H&R Block, to talk about three MEGA things business owners need to know for this EOFY and the financial year ahead. Listen and get insights on the changes in how we deduct assets in the business, entertainment expenses, when food and drink are claimable, and changes to work from expenses.

Episode Highlights:


[00:01] Intro and a bit about our guest today, Mandy Stonard
[02:15] A bit about Mandy's background and what she does in the tax space
[03:26] Important changes to the way we deduct asset expenses in our businesses
[07:17] Common mistakes Mandy sees business owners making in asset depreciation 
[11:56] The biggest mistake business owners keep making when it comes to entertainment expenses
[13:17] Why the ATO tightened its allowances and rules around entertainment expenses
[15:28] Avenues to claim tax deductions when it comes to food and drinks 
[17:35] Commercial Break
[19:11] The change in how the deductions appear in the tax returns 
[21:29] Changes to the way we substantiate work-from-home claims 
[27:36] Changes to the shortcut method for work-from-home cents-per-hour claims 
[28:56] How the proof of expenses has changed record keeping for working-at-home 
[33:01] Wrap up on the three things you need to know about tax deduction 
[35:54] Ending the show

Standout Quotes:


“ATO tightened its allowances and rules around entertainment expenses to make sure it’s clear for everybody, and we’re doing the right thing.”-  Mandy Stonard [13:52]
“There are no specific self-employed deduction; it is a general based because the rules are the same, whether you are employed or in business."- Mandy Stonard [21:30]

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Thanks to our Season Sponsor H&R Block.

As Australia’s leading tax experts, the team are here to help, offering on-going support for individuals and small businesses, and FREE BAS services for all newcomers. Get more, for sure, with H&R Block. 

Visit hrblock.com.au to book an appointment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business after burnout, with Dr. Yumiko Kadota

After experiencing burnout, it becomes crucial to prioritise self-care and mental well-being in order to regain balance and avoid falling into the same trap again. This shift involves recognizing the signs of burnout, setting boundaries, and implementing effective techniques to give yourself time to nourish yourself. By valuing self-care and establishing a healthy work-life balance as business owners, we can foster creativity, productivity, and sustainable growth. This new perspective allows you to develop a more balanced and mindful approach to your business, leading to increased fulfilment and success in the long run.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Yumiko Kadota, a medical doctor and author of Emotional Female, to talk about the business after burnout, cultural abuse of financial success, how to find intrinsic motivation, and being brave enough to walk your own path outside of expectations. Dr. Yumiko experienced burnout in its most dangerous form after working 24 hours on core shifts 19 days straight, which led to very severe mental and physical burnout. Mentally and physically exhausted beyond repair, it took Dr. Yumiko 18 months of significant recovery to sleep properly again and years of medication to repair her mental condition. 

 

Tune in!

Episode Highlights:


[00:01] Intro and a bit about our guest today, Dr. Yumiko Kadota
[02:51] A bit about Dr. Yumiko's background and what she does
[03:21] About Dr. Yumiko's book, Emotional Female
[05:56] How Dr. Yumiko accidentally landed into business and her fears of burnout
[08:20] Dr. Yumiko's experience in entrepreneurship coming from medicine field
[11:34] How growing up in a Japanese culture impacted how Dr. Yumiko's financial perspective
[18:24] Dr. Yumiko's belief that pushed her not to invest in her business 
[27:26] Dr. Yumiko's drive from culture and burnout to keep her business small
[34:31] What financial comfortability looks like for Dr. Yumiko
[37:40] Dr. Yumiko's intrinsic motivation and where her inspiration comes from 
[44:33] The importance of having a flexible and backup income plan
[40:46] Commercial Break
[47:39] How Dr. Yumiko's journey from medicine to business has changed her identity
[54:34] Dr. Yumiko’s family's reception of her quitting medicine and what changed
[59:14] What next for Dr. Yumiko and her experience giving her practice to someone else 
[01:05:52] How to reach out and connect with Dr. Yumiko 
[01:06:03] Ending the show

Resources Mentioned

Emotional Female by Dr. Yumiko Kadota: https://www.amazon.com/Emotional-Female-Yumiko-Kadota-ebook/dp/B08NTW8MCD

Standout Quotes:


“Time is more important, and having the time to nourish yourself emotionally and spiritually keeps you healthy.”- Dr. Yumiko [21:25]
“Sadly, we as women feel guilty for being successful; we should be lifting each other and cerebrating each other successes."- Dr. Yumiko [30:27]
“Knowing that there are other avenues for income if you need more puts less pressure on all the individual jobs you have.”- Dr. Yumiko [49:39]
“We deserve to live a good live that we enjoy and not worry so much of others expectation of what we should be doing.”- Dr. Yumiko [49:56]
“It’s out there if you look for it, and you can manifest it; putting it out in the universe and believe it can happen for you is a huge part of manifesting.”- Dr. Yumiko [01:04:18]

Stay Connected

Dr. Yumiko Kadota

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindbodymiko/?hl=en

 

Emma Edwards

Website: https://thebrokegeneration.com/?v=518f4a738816

LinkedIn: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration

Instagram: https://instagram.com/the.brokegeneration

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Thanks to our Season Sponsor H&R Block.

As Australia’s leading tax experts, the team are here to help, offering on-going support for individuals and small businesses, and FREE BAS services for all newcomers. Get more, for sure, with H&R Block. 

Visit hrblock.com.au to boo

How to Stop Winging it in Business with Alice Benham

Winging it in business refers to making decisions without a clear plan or strategy. Instead of carefully thinking through decisions, some entrepreneurs choose to make things up as they go, which can lead to confusion, mistakes, and missed opportunities. Those who take the time to plan and prepare have a better chance of success. Do you want to level up your business game and start winning with a clear plan?

In this episode, Alice Benham, a seasoned business and marketing expert, shares valuable insights on being intentional with our money-making strategies in business. With her impressive experience of building a business from scratch at a young age and achieving remarkable growth, Alice offers practical tips for success. She emphasises the importance of intentionality when it comes to generating revenue and provides guidance on how to go beyond the initial stages of entrepreneurship. Tune in to discover how to build a solid foundation and soar to new heights in your business endeavours.  

Episode Highlights:


[00:01] Episode intro and what’s in for you today
[03:27] A bit about Alice Benham and the value she brings to the table
[05:19] How Alice’s financial journey in business has been like
[08:54] How long it took her to be confident and grounded in her business
[12:33] Memories of shame from mistakes earlier made in business
[17:06 ] Alice’s relationship with money
[21:11] The best and easiest way to deal with your money issues
[30:04] The infinite nature of money
[37:43] Commercial Break
[39:15] Strategies Alice uses to help her clients come out of their financial chaos
[01:04:00] Call to action and ending the show

Standout Quotes:


 “No one feels ready for business. The more a business grows, the more financial complexity you have to manage.”- Alice [14:17]
“In business, the lessons are hard, and they do not stop.”- Alice [15:36]
“The best and easiest way to sort your money issues is to start a business. You cannot avoid it.’-Alice [21:11]
“You cannot run a business and not be good with money because if you don’t, your business will fail.” - Alice [21:53]
“Fulfilment does not rest on that next level of income. Things get harder the more you make money.  ”-Alice [30:04]

Stay Connected

Alice Benham

Website: https://www.alicebenham.co.uk/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/alice_benham/

Podcast: https://www.alicebenham.co.uk/podcast

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Thanks to our Season Sponsor H&R Block.

As Australia’s leading tax experts, the team are here to help, offering on-going support for individuals and small businesses, and FREE BAS services for all newcomers. Get more, for sure, with H&R Block. 

Visit hrblock.com.au to book an appointment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Power of Profit First, with Najma Khan

In business, "Profit First." is a powerful concept about how we handle money. Instead of waiting until the end to pay yourself, why not pay yourself first? It's a revolutionary idea that challenges the traditional mindset. By prioritising your own profit, you become more motivated, focused, and driven to make your business thrive. So, why not dare to put yourself first and watch your success soar? Profit is what we all desire, yet we often overlook its importance. 

In this episode, our special guest Najma Khan enlightens us on the cash flow management system known as Profit First. If you haven't come across it before, Profit First is a system derived from Mike Michalowicz's book of the same name. It suggests dividing your business finances into different accounts and allocating sales, income, and invoices across these accounts based on specific percentages. Emma, our host, has been gradually implementing this system for the past six months and is already witnessing a significant shift in her approach to cash flow management. 

This episode will reignite your confidence and empower you to master the art of managing your business finances. Get ready to take control!

Tune in!

Episode Highlights:



[00:01] Episode intro, what’s in for you today & quick bio of the guest; Najma Khan
[03:33] A bit about Najma Khan and the value she brings to the world
[07:49] It’s not late to start your business’ financial management journey 
[09:04] The concept of Profit First, and why you MUST pay yourself first
[10:41] Accounts you must have for your business to thrive and scale up
[11:40] Common problems to encounter when implementing the profit-first concept
[14:21  When profit first becomes magic, and a game changer
[17:50] Why money is attracted to clarity and organisation
[20:20] Best practices with your profit account
[26:27] Why money is just a mindset



[30:26] Commercial Break
[31:38] Profit first among solopreneurs versus companies
[33:38] Core principles of Najma’s program and how she helps clients 
[42:50] Golden takeaway nuggets from the episode
[45:22] Best ways to reach out, connect and get Najma’s services
[48:01] Call to action and ending the show

Standout Quotes:



 “There is no shame in not being super confident in managing business finances. Sincerely, it is complicated, hard, different and uncertain.”- Emma [01:56]
“There is nothing like being late in business. Every time is perfect to start your entrepreneurship journey. It is all about making a decision and sticking to it.”- Najma [07:49]
“Sales minus expenses equals is outdated and does more harm to you as an entrepreneur. Successful businesses embrace sales minus profit equals expenses. They pay themselves first, and that is the secret. ’-Najma [09:38]
“When we get clarity in our business, we gain confidence. Confidence is what helps us know how to effectively run our businesses and make better decisions.” - Najma [18:21]
“When you reward yourself as a business owner from the profit account, it is like your business rewarding you for a job well done. In return, your attitude towards the business even becomes more remarkable, and you work with joy.  ”-Najma [23:22]



“Every money battle is started and won in the mind. It is just a mindset. When the mindset changes, everything changes. ”-Najma [26:27]

Resources Mentioned

A free beginner's guide to Profit First that you can download here. 

Melanie Jane Wood: https://speakingstyles.com.au/

Stay Connected

Najma Khan

Website: https://www.latrobebookkeeping.com.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockettoprofit/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/najmakhan/

Profit First Professionals: https://www.profitfirstaustralia.com.au

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Thanks to our Season Sponsor H&R Block.

As Australia’s leading tax experts, the team are here to help, offering on-going support for individuals and small businesses, and FREE BAS service