The Profit First Podcast Australia and New Zealand

Katie Crismale-Marshall

TRANSFORM ANY BUSINESS FROM A CASH-EATING MONSTER TO A MONEY-MAKING MACHINE USING PROFIT FIRST METHODOLOGY

  1. Episode 5: The Money Habit That Saves Your Business And Your Life with Mike Michalowicz

    May 6

    Episode 5: The Money Habit That Saves Your Business And Your Life with Mike Michalowicz

    Did you know your team’s biggest productivity killer isn’t skill or motivation, but money stress? Financial worry is the silent thief of business growth and here’s how to stop it. In this episode, Mike Michalowicz, author of Profit First, joins Katie to unpack his latest book The Money Habit. He reveals why financial stress isn’t just a personal issue but a business problem, and how clarity accounts can transform both your household and your company. You’ll learn why money worries drain productivity, how to set up a simple framework that works in any season of life, and why intentionality, not deprivation, is the real key to financial freedom. This isn’t just about spreadsheets or stinginess. It’s about building a system that gives you control, confidence, and peace of mind, whether you’re paying off debt, preparing for retirement, or simply wanting your team to show up focused and energized. In this episode of The Profit First Podcast Australia and New Zealand podcast, you’ll learn the following: 14:38 – How personal financial stress can sabotage business success16:08 – The hidden productivity killer that drains focus and output19:26 – How “clarity accounts” eliminates confusion, arguments, and stress in finances23:25 – Five core account categories and how they create balance29:13 – How to adapt your money system to different life stages and unexpected challenges32:06 – Why denial is the worst financial plan and how to build resilience for emergencies before they happen32:56 – How one simple account can kickstart lasting financial clarity (and why messy progress beats perfection) Your business and personal finances are like two legs. You can’t walk straight if one is weak. Whether you’re leading a team or running your household, The Money Habit offers a framework that adapts to your life and business. Listen in and start building a system that works for you instead of against you. CONNECT WITH KATIE CRISMALE-MARSHALL     Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profitfirstanz/Website: https://www.profitfirstaustralia.com.au/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/profitfirstanz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh889iRtnzqDh8RVPY7YCwFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profitfirstanz

    32 min
  2. Episode 04: Turn Busy Work Into Real Profit That Pays You Back with Laura O'Hagan

    Apr 6

    Episode 04: Turn Busy Work Into Real Profit That Pays You Back with Laura O'Hagan

    Being fully booked doesn’t guarantee profit. Here’s how to fix the hidden leaks in your business. Running a business may look straightforward from the outside, but behind the scenes it’s a constant juggle of cash flow, expenses, and services that don’t always add up. In this episode, profit and growth consultant Laura O’Hagan reveals why so many business owners feel busy yet broke. She shares her proven framework, explains why Profit First is just one tool in a bigger toolkit, and walks us through the exact steps she uses to help owners stop stressing about bills and start keeping more of their hard‑earned money. If you’re wondering why your business feels full but your bank account feels empty, this conversation will give you the clarity, confidence, and practical strategies you need to finally make your business work for you. In this episode of The Profit First Podcast Australia and New Zealand podcast, you’ll learn the following: 00:25 – Why businesses struggle with profit despite being busy07:24 – The threshold where profit transformation begins10:44 – How Profit First fits into a broader framework14:05 – The first 30 days that change everything17:14 – How to uncover which services are profitable, which are draining cash, and how to restructure pricing for sustainable margins20:55 – Why seeing costs in black and white shifts mindset, reduces fear of price increases, and helps you make confident decisions26:33 – The KPIs every business owner must track Want to learn how to stop stressing about bills, wages, and tax and start keeping more of your hard‑earned cash? Do you want to break free from the cycle of being busy but not profitable? Then stop guessing and start running a business that pays you back. This conversation will show you exactly where to begin. CONNECT WITH LAURA O’HAGAN Website: https://laurajohagan.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurajohagan/ CONNECT WITH KATIE CRISMALE-MARSHALL     Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profitfirstanz/Website: https://www.profitfirstaustralia.com.au/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/profitfirstanz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh889iRtnzqDh8RVPY7YCwFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profitfirstanz

    30 min
  3. Episode 03: Why Small Businesses Struggle With Profit (And How To Finally Fix It) with Nathan Rigney

    Mar 31

    Episode 03: Why Small Businesses Struggle With Profit (And How To Finally Fix It) with Nathan Rigney

    Are you working harder than ever but still not seeing profit? Here’s why (and how to fix it). In this episode, Nathan Rigney, a seasoned Profit First advisor and accountant, breaks down the psychology behind cash flow, why most business owners unknowingly sabotage their own profits, and how to finally take control of your finances without drowning in spreadsheets. Learn how to stop being a slave to your business and start paying yourself what you’re worth. Because running a business isn’t just about sales and systems. It’s about truly understanding the money that fuels it. This conversation is packed with practical insights that will help you see your numbers differently, make smarter decisions, and finally generate the profit your hard work deserves. In this episode of The Profit First Podcast Australia and New Zealand podcast, you’ll learn the following: 03:26 – Why traditional accounting fails most entrepreneurs and how Profit First simplifies cash flow06:46 – The different types of accountants and why not all of them are equipped to solve your business problems09:45 – How your relationship with money impacts your success and why self-awareness is just as important as technical knowledge14:01 – How the right financial team can help you stop struggling18:02 – What a Profit Generator really does23:19 – How to start thinking like a business owner26:14 – Must-hear advice for accountants and business owners who want to thrive instead of just survive If you’ve ever felt like your business is running you instead of the other way around, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to take back control. Nathan’s insights prove that profit isn’t about luck - it’s about strategy, mindset, and making the right financial choices. Tune in, take notes, and start building the profitable business you deserve. CONNECT WITH NATHAN RIGNEY Website: https://ngraccounting.com.au/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-rigney/ CONNECT WITH KATIE CRISMALE-MARSHALL     Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profitfirstanz/Website: https://www.profitfirstaustralia.com.au/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/profitfirstanz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh889iRtnzqDh8RVPY7YCwFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profitfirstanz

    22 min
  4. Episode 02: Stop Cash Flow Chaos With Profit First with Steven Mulligan

    Mar 23

    Episode 02: Stop Cash Flow Chaos With Profit First with Steven Mulligan

    Running a business shouldn’t feel like drowning in numbers you don’t understand. In this episode, hospitality consultant and Profit First professional Steven Mulligan shares how he helps business owners cut through the overwhelm, simplify their finances, and finally see where their money is going. From breaking down complex reports into plain language to tackling the unique challenges of the hospitality industry, Steven reveals how Profit First isn’t just about bank accounts - it’s about creating clarity, confidence, and control. You’ll hear how business owners can shift from gut-feel decisions to structured cash management, why simplicity beats complexity every time, and how asking the right questions can transform not just your business, but your peace of mind. In this episode of The Profit First Podcast Australia and New Zealand podcast, you’ll learn the following: 08:25 – How fast-moving costs and hidden “black holes” make cash flow harder to control10:43 – How to cut through jargon and translate numbers into insights you can actually use to make decisions13:04 – Profit First as a tool to identify what’s broken and where to focus17:01 – How to pivot when things go wrong (and why focusing on your passion can reignite growth)22:47 – Practical steps to simplify operations, reduce stress, and create systems that free you from daily grind28:11 – Customising Profit First to stay flexible and resilient through ups and downs29:57 – Common misconceptions about Profit First37:55 – A simple but powerful advice for breaking through confusion and finding the right financial guidance This conversation is packed with practical takeaways for anyone who’s ever thought, “Where is my money going?” and wants a clear, actionable answer. CONNECT WITH KATIE CRISMALE-MARSHALL     Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profitfirstanz/Website: https://www.profitfirstaustralia.com.au/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/profitfirstanz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh889iRtnzqDh8RVPY7YCwFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profitfirstanz

    32 min
  5. Episode 01: Fix Your Money Leaks And Build Profit Freedom with Dean Evans

    Mar 16

    Episode 01: Fix Your Money Leaks And Build Profit Freedom with Dean Evans

    Stop chasing big jobs. Fix the leaks in your business bucket first. In this episode, Dean Evans from Workshop Whisperer reveals how auto repair business owners across Australia and New Zealand transformed their shops by embracing Profit First. You’ll learn why traditional accounting leaves you blind, how simple systems can give you control, and how discipline around cash flow can change not just your business, but your entire lifestyle. Dean breaks down the exact steps Workshop Whisperer uses to help clients stop money leaks, negotiate better margins, and finally see profit flow into their pockets. If you’re thinking, “I’m just not good with numbers,” this conversation will show you how the right system makes managing money simple, empowering, and even exciting. In this episode of The Profit First Podcast Australia and New Zealand podcast, you’ll learn the following: 00:00 – How Profit First helps you plug the leaks in your business01:35 – How real growth happens when you listen to demand, strip away complexity, and turn simple solutions into scalable programs03:48 – Profit First as a critical system for managing cash flow and building resilience07:49 – The first steps to financial transformation and how Profit First immediately exposes hidden financial gaps11:41 – Shifting focus to controlling expenses and keeping profit in your pocket15:00 – The three keys to freedom and how Profit First creates quick, confidence‑boosting financial wins18:44 – Turning disciplined cash flow management into unforgettable retreats, family experiences, and the freedom to live a life you once thought out of reach21:40 – Game‑changing tools to control cash flow, boost profitability, and finally run a business that works without you If you’ve ever felt like your business is running you instead of the other way around, this episode is your wake-up call. You’ll realise Profit First isn’t just about numbers. It’s also about freedom, confidence, and building the life you actually want. Tune in, take notes, and start plugging those leaks today. CONNECT WITH KATIE CRISMALE-MARSHALL     Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profitfirstanz/Website: https://www.profitfirstaustralia.com.au/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/profitfirstanz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh889iRtnzqDh8RVPY7YCwFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profitfirstanz

    24 min
  6. Snapshot #7: Beyond Profit First and Into Forecasting, Financial Teams, and Peace of Mind

    Feb 25 ·  Bonus

    Snapshot #7: Beyond Profit First and Into Forecasting, Financial Teams, and Peace of Mind

    Profit First is brilliant … but it’s just the starting line. In this snapshot, Katie and Craig Minter dive into how financial peace of mind evolves from simple bank accounts into forecasting, team building, and money mindset shifts that actually free you to grow. Think of it as moving from “profit buckets” to a full-blown financial brain care model that keeps your shoulders relaxed and your business future clear. You’ll learn:Why Profit First is a powerful starting point (but not the whole journey)How simple bank accounts can create peace of mind and open the door to growthThe role of forecasting in turning clarity today into confidence tomorrowWhy building the right financial team matters more than expecting one person to do it allHow money mindset and archetypes shape the way you make financial decisions Profit First gives you clarity today, but the real magic happens when you evolve into forecasting, team building, and mindset shifts. This episode is your reminder that financial peace isn’t just about numbers, but also about freedom, confidence, and the future you’re building. Listen to the full episode here Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/episode-10-the-financial-strategy-thats-more/id1800335872?i=1000722552337 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/3JhKuHLLvwB5c1BfSb1PHz Watch the full episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VACWv50CtBE CONNECT WITH KATIE CRISMALE-MARSHALL     Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profitfirstanz/Website: https://www.profitfirstaustralia.com.au/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/profitfirstanz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh889iRtnzqDh8RVPY7YCwFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profitfirstanz

    8 min
  7. Snapshot #6: The Profit First Shift That Shows You Exactly What to Fix in Your Business

    12/17/2025 ·  Bonus

    Snapshot #6: The Profit First Shift That Shows You Exactly What to Fix in Your Business

    Most tradies think the money sitting in their bank account means they’re doing okay,  until it quietly disappears.  In this snapshot, Katie breaks down why that happens, and how the first Profit First principle (small plates) stops the bleed instantly. Then she dives into serving sequentially, the Profit First principle that confuses most business owners at first, but becomes the game-changer once they understand it. Katie shows how allocating revenue in a strict order reveals the true health of your business, exposes hidden problems fast, and gives you a clear plan for what to fix next. If your business feels busy but the bank account tells a different story, this conversation shows you how Profit First turns uncertainty into clarity, and clarity into profit. You’ll learn:Why money “disappears” when it sits in one or two accountsHow the small plates principle stops overspending on autopilotThe simple purpose of multiple bank accounts — and why tradies make better decisions with themWhat “serving sequentially” really means inside Profit FirstWhy an underfunded operating expenses account is a warning sign, not a failureHow starting with just 1% profit rewires your thinking and improves cash flowThe allocation order that keeps GST, profit, owner pay, tax, and expenses exactly where they need to beHow Profit First gives you direction instead of overwhelm For tradies who aren’t sure whether Profit First will work for them, this snapshot gives a grounded, real-world look at why the system creates confidence, structure, and profit, without complicating your bookkeeping. Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/episode-03-why-your-business-isnt-profitable-and-how/id1800335872?i=1000700038916 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/5CgYSl88OpebfzzbQ3ni8u?si=a885fc545e5b4119 Watch the full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/9CT842jK69w CONNECT WITH KATIE CRISMALE-MARSHALL     Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profitfirstanz/Website: https://www.profitfirstaustralia.com.au/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/profitfirstanz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGh889iRtnzqDh8RVPY7YCwFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profitfirstanz

    6 min

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TRANSFORM ANY BUSINESS FROM A CASH-EATING MONSTER TO A MONEY-MAKING MACHINE USING PROFIT FIRST METHODOLOGY