Build and Exit

Julie Wilkinson
  • 5.0 (6)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

As a chartered management accountant by trade, I uncovered my true potential at 37, moving from a well-paid corporate job to building my own accounting and consultancy firm. Having worked on 5-10 acquisitions or business exits each month for clients, I understand the key challenges business owners face, including getting the real value they want for their business, whilst having the right controls and processes in place so the business can run independently of the owners. The Build and Exit podcast will include conversations, stories and real-life examples of day-to-day challenges business owners face, different methods of growth including acquisitions and top tips on how owners can transition from working in their business to working on it, enabling them to maximize their value on exit. I will also include episodes where I share my own learnings on business management and how Wilkinson Accounting Solutions are planning to continue to grow by acquisition.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    Valuations: 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

  2. 11 AUG

    Grew 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

  3. 20 JUL

    Buy 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

  4. 29 JUN

    134% 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

  5. 11 MAY

    The 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

  6. 27 APR

    Triple 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

  7. 13 APR

    The 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!

    33 min

  8. 30 MAR

    1bn of acquisitions to grow the UK economy with Clive Margetts and Oli Luke

    Over 612,000 Baby Boomer business owners will need to sell or exit their companies in the coming years. The question is—will they get the deal they deserve? In this episode I am joined by Clive Margetts and Oli Luke, founders of Acquisition Masters, to explore how business owners can maximise their exit strategy and secure a profitable sale. The UK economy is facing a serious threat if these businesses fail to sell or get swallowed up by the market leaders. Jobs will be on the line. We explore the nuances of consulting for equity, exit strategies, and the importance of business structure and governance. If you're a business owner looking to sell, scale, or structure your company for the future, this episode is packed with must-know insights to help you exit on your terms.   "612,00 businesses are operated by baby boomers" – Oli   You’ll hear about:   ✅ Why so many Baby Boomers are struggling to sell their businesses ✅ The real value of your business—and how to get the price it deserves ✅ How consulting for equity can boost business value before selling ✅ The transition from owner-operator to investor and why it matters ✅ The biggest risks in M&A, from pricing mistakes to client concentration   Connect with Clive Margetts:   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/clivemargetts/ The Business Success Consultant - https://thebusinesssuccessconsultant.com/   Connect with Oli Luke:   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/oli-luke-3451b150/ Business of Hearing - https://businessofhearing.com/ Listen to Oli’s Podcast – The Business of Hearing - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-business-of-hearing/id1536591535   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!

    48 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

As a chartered management accountant by trade, I uncovered my true potential at 37, moving from a well-paid corporate job to building my own accounting and consultancy firm. Having worked on 5-10 acquisitions or business exits each month for clients, I understand the key challenges business owners face, including getting the real value they want for their business, whilst having the right controls and processes in place so the business can run independently of the owners. The Build and Exit podcast will include conversations, stories and real-life examples of day-to-day challenges business owners face, different methods of growth including acquisitions and top tips on how owners can transition from working in their business to working on it, enabling them to maximize their value on exit. I will also include episodes where I share my own learnings on business management and how Wilkinson Accounting Solutions are planning to continue to grow by acquisition.

Information

  • Creator
    Julie Wilkinson
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    59
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Build and Exit

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