Finance Focus

Tracy Smart and Sam Jones
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Finance Focus

Finance Focus helps businesses navigate the ever-evolving world of finance. Each episode features expert insights, practical advice, and in-depth discussions on topics such as crowdfunding, trade finance, angel investing and debt. Hosted by Tracy Smart from The Smart Team and Sam Jones from Satellite Finance.

Episodes

  1. 5D AGO · BONUS

    Angel Investing Tips with David Ford

    How do you secure funding from an angel investor and ensure your startup is investment-ready? In this special episode, hosts Sam Jones and Tracy Smart are joined once again by angel investor David Ford, who shares his top insights for founders embarking on their fundraising journey. From choosing the right investors to crafting a compelling pitch, David provides practical advice on how to navigate early-stage investment. He explains why securing investment is about more than just numbers, why relationships matter, and how founders can set themselves up for long-term success. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to raise funds, this episode is packed with valuable guidance to help you attract the right investors and avoid common pitfalls. (00:00) - Angel Investing Tips with David Ford (00:17) - Understanding Angel Investing (01:59) - Choosing the Right Investors (04:12) - Effective Pitching Strategies (05:39) - Common Pitfalls and Red Flags David Ford: An Oxford-based angel investor specialising in life sciences and healthcare startups. With a background in biochemistry and decades of experience in the investment world, David transitioned into angel investing full-time, focusing on early-stage businesses with strong vision and leadership.Finance Focus helps businesses navigate the ever-evolving world of finance. Each episode features expert insights, practical advice, and in-depth discussions on topics such as crowdfunding, trade finance, angel investing and debt. Hosted by Tracy Smart from The Smart Team and Sam Jones from Satellite Finance. Connect with Tracy on LinkedInConnect with Sam on LinkedIn Finance Focus is produced and edited by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.

    8 min

  2. FEB 26

    How to Secure Funding from an Angel Investor

    Are you ready to take your startup to the next level but struggling to secure early-stage funding?  In this episode of Finance Focus, hosts Tracy Smart and Sam Jones are joined by experienced angel investor David Ford to explore the world of angel investing. David shares his journey from biochemist to full-time investor, explaining what angel investors look for in a startup, how to build trust with investors, and why securing funding takes longer than many founders expect.  Whether you’re an entrepreneur seeking investment or simply curious about how early-stage businesses get off the ground, this episode offers valuable insights into the process of raising capital. (00:00) - How to Secure Funding from an Angel Investor (00:39) - Understanding Angel Investing (00:59) - David's Journey into Angel Investing (04:25) - Involvement in Business Decisions (05:30) - What Makes a Good Investment (06:43) - Challenges and Risks in Angel Investing (09:10) - Building Trust with Founders (16:13) - Fundraising Timelines and Strategies (22:18) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts David Ford: An Oxford-based angel investor specialising in life sciences and healthcare startups. With a background in biochemistry and decades of experience in the investment world, David transitioned into angel investing full-time, focusing on early-stage businesses with strong vision and leadership.Finance Focus helps businesses navigate the ever-evolving world of finance. Each episode features expert insights, practical advice, and in-depth discussions on topics such as crowdfunding, trade finance, angel investing and debt. Hosted by Tracy Smart from The Smart Team and Sam Jones from Satellite Finance. Connect with Tracy on LinkedInConnect with Sam on LinkedIn Finance Focus is produced and edited by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.

    23 min

  3. FEB 19 · BONUS

    Trade Finance Tips with Steve Rose

    Thinking about using trade finance to grow your business but unsure where to start? In this special bite-sized episode of Finance Focus, hosts Tracy Smart and Sam Jones sit down with Steve Rose, CEO of Tint Financial Services, to break down the essentials of trade finance in under ten minutes. Steve shares expert insights on what makes a successful trade finance transaction, key do’s and don’ts, and how to structure funding efficiently. From assessing existing financial arrangements to understanding insurance, logistics, and documentation, this episode provides a clear roadmap for businesses looking to fund cross-border transactions. What documents do you need? How much of your trade will be funded? What red flags should businesses avoid? Get the answers to these crucial questions in this focused and informative discussion. (00:00) - Trade Finance Tips with Steve Rose (00:18) - Overview of Trade Finance (00:57) - Tips for Successful Trade Transactions (02:49) - Funding and Documentation Steve Rose: CEO of Tint Financial Services and CFO at The Storm Group, a trade finance expert with a background in financial services and commercial banking. With experience at Barclays, Aspen Insurance, and Bibby Financial Services, Steve now focuses on helping SMEs grow through trade finance solutions.Finance Focus helps businesses navigate the ever-evolving world of finance. Each episode features expert insights, practical advice, and in-depth discussions on topics such as crowdfunding, trade finance, angel investing and debt. Hosted by Tracy Smart from The Smart Team and Sam Jones from Satellite Finance. Connect with Tracy on LinkedInConnect with Sam on LinkedIn Finance Focus is produced and edited by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.

    7 min

  4. FEB 12

    Funding Global Trade with Trade Finance

    How can businesses navigate the complexities of international trade while maintaining cash flow and mitigating risk? In this episode of Finance Focus, hosts Sam Jones and Tracy Smart sit down with Steve Rose, CEO of Tint Financial Services, to explore the world of trade finance. They discuss how trade finance supports SMEs in expanding globally, the risks and benefits involved, and the role of emerging technologies in making trade funding more efficient. Whether you’re an importer, exporter, or just curious about global trade, this episode provides practical insights to help businesses manage international transactions with confidence. (00:00) - Funding Global Trade with Trade Finance (00:13) - Overview of Trade Finance (00:58) - Meet Steve Rose (02:09) - Understanding Trade Finance Mechanisms (03:32) - Funding Periods and Transaction Sizes (07:23) - Risks in Trade Finance (11:15) - The Impact of the ELECTRADE Documentation Act (15:46) - Technological Innovations in Trade Finance (18:02) - Digitisation and Supply Chain Finance (20:34) - Conclusion and Contact Information Steve Rose: CEO of Tint Financial Services and CFO at The Storm Group, a trade finance expert with a background in financial services and commercial banking. With experience at Barclays, Aspen Insurance, and Bibby Financial Services, Steve now focuses on helping SMEs grow through trade finance solutions.Takeaways from the episode: Understand Trade Finance for Your Business: Trade finance bridges the payment gap between importers and exporters by funding transactions. If your business is involved in international trade, explore how trade finance can help you manage cash flow and reduce risks.Assess the Risks and Benefits: Before using trade finance, evaluate the risks, such as fraud, perishable goods, and geopolitical disruptions. Ensure you have reliable trading partners and a strong legal and insurance framework to protect your transactions.Leverage Technology for Better Trade Management: Digital advancements such as tracking devices, automated documentation, and blockchain can enhance trade security and efficiency. Look into how digital tools can streamline your trade operations and reduce paperwork delays.Stay Updated on Trade Regulations: The Electronic Trade Documentation Act (ETDA) is revolutionising trade by allowing digital documentation exchange. Keep up with regulatory changes to ensure compliance and take advantage of faster, more efficient trade processes.Explore Alternative Funding Options: Trade finance is one of many financial solutions available to businesses involved in global trade. Compare options like invoice financing, loans, and overdrafts to find the best fit for your company’s growth strategy.Finance Focus helps businesses navigate the ever-evolving world of finance. Each episode features expert insights, practical advice, and in-depth discussions on topics such as crowdfunding, trade finance, angel investing and debt. Hosted by Tracy Smart from The Smart Team and Sam Jones from Satellite Finance. Connect with Tracy on LinkedInConnect with Sam on LinkedIn Finance Focus is produced and edited by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.

    21 min

  5. FEB 5 · BONUS

    Crowdfunding Tips with Tim Hammond and Geoff Turral

    How can crowdfunding help you raise capital for your business? Welcome to this bonus episode of Finance Focus where hosts Tracy Smart and Sam Jones discuss the ins and outs of successful crowdfunding with industry experts Tim Hammond and Geoff Turral. They share their top tips for securing investment, building momentum, and making the most of incentives to attract investors. Whether you’re launching your first campaign or looking to refine your strategy, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you make the most of crowdfunding. (00:00) - Crowdfunding Tips in Ten (00:26) - Introduction to Crowdfunding (00:43) - Tim's Top Crowdfunding Tips (02:12) - Geoff's Crowdfunding Insights (02:55) - Understanding Crowdfunding Platforms (03:39) - The Importance of Crowdfunding Support Geoff Turrell: Geoff Turrell is the co-founder of CarCloud, a cutting-edge digital platform revolutionising car management. CarCloud empowers users to manage their vehicles seamlessly, helping them save time and money by digitising paperwork and simplifying ownership costs. With a strong background in entrepreneurship and innovation, Jeff has successfully raised over £1.2 million through crowdfunding campaigns. His journey demonstrates how founders can leverage crowdfunding not just to secure funds, but to build a thriving community of advocates for their business.Tim Hammond: Tim Hammond is the co-founder of Pro Espresso, a subscription-based service that brings professional-grade coffee machines and beans into homes. With a passion for quality and community, Tim has spearheaded multiple successful crowdfunding campaigns, raising significant capital to expand his brand. His expertise lies in crafting compelling campaigns that engage customers and investors alike. Tim’s insights highlight the power of crowdfunding to build loyal customer bases and amplify brand visibility. Finance Focus helps businesses navigate the ever-evolving world of finance. Each episode features expert insights, practical advice, and in-depth discussions on topics such as crowdfunding, trade finance, angel investing and debt. Hosted by Tracy Smart from The Smart Team and Sam Jones from Satellite Finance. Connect with Tracy on LinkedInConnect with Sam on LinkedIn Finance Focus is produced and edited by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.

    5 min

  6. JAN 29

    Raising Funds with Crowdfunding

    How can crowdfunding transform the way businesses raise capital? In this premiere episode of Finance Focus, hosts Tracy Smart and Sam Jones explore the dynamic world of crowdfunding with two special guests: Geoff Turrell of CarCloud and Tim Hammond of Pro Espresso. Together, they share firsthand experiences, tips for successful campaigns, and discuss how this innovative approach is reshaping entrepreneurship. (00:00) - Introduction to Finance Focus Podcast (00:38) - Crowdfunding: Revolutionizing Fundraising (01:22) - Insights from Successful Crowdfunders (04:33) - Navigating the Crowdfunding Process (12:26) - Secrets to Crowdfunding Success (32:10) - Final Thoughts and Takeaways Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode offers practical insights to elevate your fundraising journey.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The pros and cons of crowdfunding versus traditional fundraising.How to choose the right crowdfunding platform for your business.Secrets behind successful crowdfunding campaigns.Strategies to engage investors and maintain campaign momentum.The hidden benefits of crowdfunding, beyond raising capital. Geoff Turrell: Geoff Turrell is the co-founder of CarCloud, a cutting-edge digital platform revolutionising car management. CarCloud empowers users to manage their vehicles seamlessly, helping them save time and money by digitising paperwork and simplifying ownership costs. With a strong background in entrepreneurship and innovation, Jeff has successfully raised over £1.2 million through crowdfunding campaigns. His journey demonstrates how founders can leverage crowdfunding not just to secure funds, but to build a thriving community of advocates for their business. Tim Hammond: Tim Hammond is the co-founder of Pro Espresso, a subscription-based service that brings professional-grade coffee machines and beans into homes. With a passion for quality and community, Tim has spearheaded multiple successful crowdfunding campaigns, raising significant capital to expand his brand. His expertise lies in crafting compelling campaigns that engage customers and investors alike. Tim’s insights highlight the power of crowdfunding to build loyal customer bases and amplify brand visibility. Finance Focus helps businesses navigate the ever-evolving world of finance. Each episode features expert insights, practical advice, and in-depth discussions on topics such as crowdfunding, trade finance, angel investing and debt. Hosted by Tracy Smart from The Smart Team and Sam Jones from Satellite Finance. Connect with Tracy on LinkedInConnect with Sam on LinkedIn Finance Focus is produced and edited by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.

    35 min
  • 6 Episodes

About

Finance Focus helps businesses navigate the ever-evolving world of finance. Each episode features expert insights, practical advice, and in-depth discussions on topics such as crowdfunding, trade finance, angel investing and debt. Hosted by Tracy Smart from The Smart Team and Sam Jones from Satellite Finance.

Information

  • Creator
    Tracy Smart and Sam Jones
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    6
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Tracy Smart and Sam Jones

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