The Business BFF with the Women's Accountant

In this episode, host Emma Bowdler, Founder of The Women’s Accountant, debunks the romanticised view of business ownership often portrayed by business gurus and motivational speakers. They share several harsh realities that new business owners face, such as tax bill shock, working with undesirable clients, making poor hires, investing in irrelevant systems, and working harder for less money initially. The speaker emphasises that these challenges are part of the learning process and provide valuable lessons that employees would miss. The goal is to prepare and inform potential and current business owners about the unglamorous aspects of running a business while fostering a community for shared experiences and support.00:00 The Harsh Reality of Business Ownership01:50 Tax Bill Shock: The Unseen Burden03:38 Dealing with Difficult Clients05:43 Hiring Mistakes: Lessons Learned07:02 Investing in the Wrong Resources08:20 The Hard Work and Low Pay Paradox10:42 Learning from Mistakes: The Silver Lining

In this episode, host Emma Bowdler, founder of The Women's Accountant, challenges the traditional professional services culture that equates long hours and physical presence with professional value. Through personal anecdotes and alarming industry statistics on burnout, the host argues that this mentality is driving talented individuals away from professions like law, accounting, and allied health. Advocating for a balanced work-life approach, the host shares insights on setting boundaries, choosing energising clients, and redefining success. The episode calls for a shift in mindset to prioritise sustainable success without sacrificing personal well-being.  00:00 Introduction and Personal Story 01:12 The Toxic Culture of Professional Services 03:51 The Impact on Future Professionals 05:12 Choosing a Different Path 05:29 The Glorified Job Trap 07:35 Working Differently 09:27 What Needs to Change 

In this episode of 'The Business BFF,' host Emma Bowdler, founder of The Women's Accountant, discusses the harsh reality businesses face in the current challenging landscape. She shares actionable insights and strategies for businesses in crisis, emphasising the importance of brutal honesty, stopping financial bleeding, engaging with creditors early, eliminating problematic clients, and investing in professional help. Emma also emphasises the importance of maintaining marketing efforts, building financial reserves, and knowing when to close a business strategically. Tune in for practical advice on navigating through tough times and ensuring business continuity.  00:00 Introduction: The Brutal Business Landscape 01:01 Key Differences Between Survivors and Failures 01:42 Welcome to the Business BFF Podcast 02:17 Step 1: Brutal Honesty 04:09 Step 2: Stop the Bleeding 05:40 Step 3: Addressing Tax Obligations 06:29 Step 4: Letting Go of Problem Clients 06:58 Step 5: Seeking Professional Help 08:09 Step 6: Focusing on Revenue Recovery 09:08 Step 7: Building Financial Buffers 10:20 When Business Isn't Viable

In this episode, host Emma Bowdler, founder of The Women's Accountant, discusses the often-overlooked benefits of running a business as a mother. She challenges the societal notion that working mums might be negatively impacting their children. Instead, she argues that children are gaining invaluable lessons through witnessing their mothers handle real responsibilities, solve problems, and exhibit strong work ethics. These kids are learning critical life skills, including accountability, problem-solving, confidence, financial literacy, and setting boundaries. The episode emphasises that entrepreneurship teaches children resilience and that mothers can successfully balance a thriving business with being present and loving. The host invites listeners to share their own experiences on Instagram.00:00 Introduction: The Guilt of Working Mums01:40 Teaching Accountability Through Business03:27 Instilling a Strong Work Ethic05:35 Problem-Solving Skills in Action07:42 Building Confidence and Leadership09:14 Fostering Entrepreneurial Thinking11:10 Prioritising Family Over Work12:48 Conclusion: Raising the Next Generation

In this special episode of the Business BFF Podcast, host Emma Bowdler pulls back the curtains to introduce Emily, the practice manager and operations ninja at The Women's Accountant. Emily shares her journey into accounting and business operations, her role within the firm, and the systemsshe has implemented to keep things running smoothly. The discussion also dives into the dynamics of their working relationship, the human side of business, and what makes their practice unique. Tune in to learn about Emily’s role inmaintaining structure, the importance of having processes in place, and their plans for the future. Join us for an open and honest conversation on achieving success in the world of women-led businesses. 00:00 Introduction to the Business BFF Podcast01:51 Meet Emily: The Operations Ninja02:42 Emily's Journey into Accounting04:54 Joining the Women's Accountant08:27 A Day in the Life at the Women's Accountant10:15 The Importance of Systems and Processes16:21 Balancing Work and Personal Life20:37 Celebrating Milestones and Looking Ahead28:43 Advice for Aspiring Leaders30:41 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of the Business BFF podcast, host Emma Bowdler, founder of The Women's Accountant, tackles the harsh reality that often the biggest obstacle in a woman's business success is herself. Emma discusses five common self-sabotaging behaviours—winging it without a plan, letting fear take control, chasing someone else's version of success, trying to do everything alone, and avoiding financial numbers. Providing real-life examples and actionable steps, Emma empowers listeners to recognise and address thesehabits to build fulfilling and profitable businesses. Grab a coffee, get cozy, and join the conversation about building a business that truly works for you. 00:00 Introduction: The Real Reason Your Business Feels Stuck01:00 Welcome to Business BFF: Meet Your Host Emma Bowdler01:35 Self-Sabotage #1: Winging It Without a Plan04:37 Self-Sabotage #2: Letting Fear Run the Show07:24 Self-Sabotage #3: Chasing Someone Else's Version of Success09:53 Self-Sabotage #4: Doing It All By Yourself12:48 Self-Sabotage #5: Avoiding Your Numbers15:36 Conclusion: Taking the Next Right Step

In this episode of the Business BFF podcast, host Emma Bowdler, founder of The Women's Accountant, discusses a common but sneaky issue faced by many growth-minded business owners: growing broke. Despite increasing sales, client lists, and team sizes, many business owners find themselves struggling with profits. Emma identifies four primary reasons for this phenomenon: outdated pricing, absorbing rising costs without adjusting prices, forgotten subscriptions, and reinvestment without clear ROI. She offerspractical tips for sustainable growth, including rebuilding pricing structures, conducting regular money audits, understanding cash conversion cycles, and updating service packages. The episode emphasises the importance of maintaining strong profit margins and operational clarity to achieve stable and meaningful business growth.00:00 Introduction to Growing Broke01:35 Defining Growing Broke03:08 Common Reasons for Growing Broke09:59 Conscious Scaling: The Solution13:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Business BFF, host Emma Bowdler, founder of ⁠The Women's Accountant⁠, shares a practical step-by-step framework to reset your business at the start of the new financial year in July. Emma discusses the importance of a year-end review to identify what worked and what didn't, the significance of revisiting and realigning your goals, the necessity of simplifying and streamlining processes, the need for resetting habits and structuring time effectively, and the critical role of accountability in ensuring progress. These strategies are designed to help business owners stay focused on their goals, enhance client relationships, and create a business that supports their desired lifestyle. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you refresh your business and set it up for success in the months ahead.  00:00 Introduction: Resetting Your Business for Success 00:41 Welcome to the Business BFF Podcast 01:17 Realigning and Resetting for the New Financial Year 01:45 Year in Review: Analysing Past Performance 04:34 Revisiting and Realigning Your Goals 09:17 Simplifying and Streamlining Your Business 12:51 Resetting Habits and Structuring Time for Growth 15:23 The Importance of Accountability 17:40 Conclusion: Taking Charge of Your Business 

In this episode of the Business BFF podcast, hosted by Emma Bowdler, founder of The Women's Accountant, we dive into understanding and overcoming the role of a bottleneck in your business. Emma shares personal insights and practical tips to help you identify if you are the one holding your business back. You'll learn about common signs of being a bottleneck, including a lack of delegation, perfectionism, and micromanaging. Emma provides actionable steps, like conducting a role audit, empowering your team, and creating efficient systems, to help you step back from daily operations and focus on strategic growth. Tune in for honest advice and real talk to help your business flourish.00:00 Introduction: Are You the Bottleneck?00:59 Welcome to Business BFF01:35 Understanding the Bottleneck02:47 Signs You're the Bottleneck05:57 Overcoming Fear and Letting Go06:55 Practical Steps to Delegate and Empower10:19 Benefits of Not Being the Bottleneck11:36 Conclusion: Lead, Don't Control12:54 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of The Business BFF podcast, host Emma Bowdler, founder of ⁠The Women's Accountant⁠, demystifies the often overwhelming tax lodgements that business owners must handle. Emma covers the key lodgement types, including income tax returns, business activity statements (BAS), instalment activity statements (IAS), super guarantee contributions (SGC), fringe benefits tax (FBT), single touch payroll (STP), and tax file number declarations. She provides detailed timelines for each, shares tips for those who are behind on their lodgements, and stresses the importance of staying on top of tax obligations to alleviate stress. Emma also introduces a downloadable tax lodgement calendar to help listeners stay organised. This episode is a mix of practical advice and motivational support designed to help business owners navigate tax time smoothly. Don't miss the chance to get empowered and informed about your business taxes!00:00 Introduction to Tax Time00:38 Welcome to the Business BFF Podcast01:13 Understanding Income Tax Returns02:39 Business Activity Statements (BAS) Explained03:56 Instalment Activity Statements (IAS) Overview05:21 Super Guarantee Contributions (SGC)06:39 Special Lodgements: Fringe Benefits Tax and More09:29 Catching Up on Overdue Lodgements12:23 Staying on Track with Tax Obligations14:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'The Business BFF' podcast, host Emma Bowdler, founder of the Women's Accountant,  recounts a pivotal moment in December 2009 when everything changed. As a single mum juggling a busy life, she decided to leave her job after her boss denied her a day off without pay to care for her daughters. This life-altering choice led her to start her accountancy practice in January 2010. She shares the valuable lessons she's learned on her journey to financial independence, the importance of setting boundaries, and tips on how you can take control of your financial future. Don't miss this empowering story of resilience, determination, and success.00:00 Life-Changing Moment in 200901:56 Starting a New Journey02:59 The Importance of Financial Independence04:45 Setting Boundaries in Business07:35 Overcoming Challenges and Growing11:40 Steps to Take Control of Your Financial Future13:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'The Business BFF' podcast, host Emma Bowdler, founder of the Women's Accountant, demystifies tax planning for business owners. Emma explains that proactive tax planning is not just about compliance, but a strategic tool to save money, grow your business, and reduce stress during tax season. She breaks down essential tax strategies, such as maximising deductions, prepaying expenses, managing invoices, and leveraging superannuation contributions. Emma also busts the myth that paying taxes is bad, emphasising that it signifies business profitability and growth. The episode is packed with practical tips and strategies to help you plan, avoid tax surprises, and optimise your financial health. So grab your favourite beverage, get comfy, and tune in for an informative chat that promises to make tax time less daunting and more manageable.00:00 Introduction: Why Tax Planning Matters00:47 Welcome to Business BFF01:23 Understanding Tax Planning02:22 The Importance of Paying Taxes04:11 Common Tax Strategies07:21 Superannuation Tips10:44 Managing Debtors and Stock13:11 Final Thoughts and Advice16:04 Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode of The Business BFF, host Emma Bowdler (founder of The Women’s Accountant) dives deep into the four most important numbers that every business owner should track. These aren't your typical revenue and profit figures. Discover the metrics that truly matter for business growth, including retention rates, conversion rates, average sale value, and sales per customer. Learn how to leverage these key numbers to increase revenue, improve profitability, and build a more sustainable and successful business.  Key Takeaways: Retention Rates: The percentage of clients who continue to use your services over time. Conversion Rates: The number of inquiries converted into paying customers. Average Sale Value: The average amount spent by each customer per transaction. Sales Per Customer: The number of transactions each customer makes annually. Improving these metrics can significantly increase revenue without the need to acquire new clients constantly. Timings:  00:00 Introduction 01:14 Retention Rates 05:57 Conversion Rates 09:59 Average Sale Value 12:13 Sales Per Customer 15:00 Conclusion 

In this episode of The Business BFF, host Emma Bowdler (founder of The Women’s Accountant) dives deep into the importance of systems and processes for your business. This episode explores how implementing robust systems can significantly impact your business's success. We discuss how systems can: Increase consistency and improve results: Streamline tasks and enhance client experiences. Simplify staff training and onboarding: Facilitate smooth transitions and reduce reliance on individual team members. Save you valuable time: Automate repetitive tasks and free up your time for strategic growth. Enhance business value: Make your business more attractive to potential buyers. Reduce stress and improve work-life balance: Gain peace of mind knowing your business can run smoothly even when you're away. Key Takeaways: Consistent systems lead to predictable outcomes and happier clients. Well-defined processes make it easier to train and onboard new staff. Automation saves time and allows you to focus on high-level tasks. Systems make your business more valuable and attractive to potential buyers. Strong systems reduce stress and improve your work-life balance. Timings:  00:00 Introduction 01:26 Consistency leads to better results 03:18 Easier to train or replace staff 06:36 Good systems save time 08:23 Makes the business more saleable 09:37 Reduce stress and improve work-life balance 11:41 Systems and processes need regular checkups 14:11 Tools to help you get started 16:58 Conclusion 

In this episode of The Business BFF podcast, host Emma Bowdler (founder of The Women’s Accountant) explains why your profit and loss statement might not match your bank account. We explore common reasons for this discrepancy, including accrual accounting, the exclusion of GST and loan repayments, the impact of drawings and dividends, and the treatment of asset purchases. Emma breaks down these concepts in an easy-to-understand way, helping you gain a clearer picture of your business's financial health.  Key Takeaways: Accrual Accounting: Income and expenses are recorded when invoiced or incurred, not when money is received or paid. GST and Tax Exclusions: GST and income tax are not reflected on the profit and loss statement. Loan Repayments: Only the interest portion of loan repayments is included as an expense on the P&L. Drawings and Dividends: Withdrawals by business owners do not directly impact the profit and loss. Asset Purchases: The full cost of assets is not expensed immediately but depreciated over time. Timings: 00:00 Introduction 01:21 Accrual Accounting 03:45 GST and Tax Exclusions 05:02 Loan Repayments 06:36 Drawings and Dividends 08:08 Asset Purchases 09:53 Conclusion 

This podcast episode from The Business BFF, with Emma Bowdler (founder of The Women’s Accountant) focuses on handling challenging clients. Host Emma Bowdler emphasises the importance of setting clear boundaries and recognising when to end client relationships that are no longer serving your business. The episode provides practical advice on breaking up with clients professionally, including sample scripts and tips for attracting ideal clients. By implementing these strategies, business owners can create a more positive and profitable client experience.  Key Takeaways:  Identify and Address Problem Clients: Recognise and document the behaviours of difficult clients (late payments, unreasonable demands, disrespect). Set Clear Boundaries: Establish non-negotiable standards and communicate them clearly to clients upfront through contracts and engagement letters. Recognise When to Part Ways: Identify signs that it's time to end a client relationship (e.g. dread, ignored boundaries, and unprofitability). Break Up Professionally: End client relationships directly and professionally without over-explaining. Focus on your business needs and offer referrals. Attract Ideal Clients: Define your ideal client, audit your messaging to align with their needs, and raise your standards to attract the best clients for your business.  Timings: 00:00 Introduction 01:22 Set your standards and boundaries 03:29 Recognising it’s time to break up 06:06 How to break up professionally 08:24 Meeting the right clients 09:12 Audit your messaging 10:52 Raise your standards 13:30 Benefits of breaking up 15:23 Conclusion 

In this episode of The Business BFF podcast, host Emma Bowdler (founder of the Women's Accountant), explores setting powerful goals for 2025. Emma guides listeners through the process of defining their ideal business and lifestyle, identifying key gaps, and stepping into the CEO role. Key Takeaways:  Define Your Ideal Day & Life: Visualise your perfect workday, considering not just financial goals but also lifestyle and work-life balance.  Identify & Address Gaps: Honestly assess areas for improvement, such as skill gaps, time management, confidence, and mindset.  Embrace the CEO Role: Delegate, make data-driven decisions, invest in growth, and prioritise high-value work.  Develop Powerful Habits: Implement daily routines that support your goals, such as daily bookkeeping or weekly planning.  Embrace Discomfort: Step outside your comfort zone with bold actions like raising prices or pitching to dream clients.  Success is Not a Solo Journey: Being in business can be lonely at times, so surround yourself with the right people.  Own Your Own Values: How you see yourself sets the tone for how other people see you. Timings:  00:00 Introduction 01:15 Define Your Ideal Day & Life 03:45 Identify & Address Gaps 05:36 Embrace the CEO Role 09:02 Develop Powerful Habits 11:42 Embrace Discomfort 14:26 Success is Not a Solo Journey 15:31 Own Your Own Values 17:20 Conclusion 

In this episode of The Business BFF Podcast, host Emma Bowdler, founder of ⁠⁠The Women's Accountant⁠⁠, explores how to reignite your passion for your business or recognise when it's time to move on. Key Takeaways Rediscover Your "Why": Reflect on your initial motivations for starting your business. Reconnecting with your original purpose can reignite your enthusiasm. Set New Goals: Establish ambitious, achievable goals that align with your professional and personal aspirations. This could involve launching new products, expanding into new markets, or simply reducing your workload. Streamline Operations: Automate tasks and delegate responsibilities to free up time and reduce stress. Identify and outsource non-essential activities so you can focus on what you enjoy most. Celebrate Your Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, both big and small. This could involve creating a wins board or sharing your successes with a supportive network. Professional Development: Invest in your professional development. It doesn’t have to be formal or expensive but focus on something to reignite your passion for your business. Consider Exiting Strategically: Recognise that exiting your business is not a failure but a potential opportunity. If you feel burnt out or misaligned, explore strategic exit options, such as selling your business or transitioning your role. Timings: 00:00 Introduction 00:58 Rediscover Your "Why" 02:06 Set New Goals 03:08 Streamline Operations 05:13 Celebrate Your Wins 07:29 Professional Development 08:19 Consider Exiting Strategically 13:25 Conclusion

In this episode of The Business BFF podcast, host Emma Bowdler, founder of The Women's Accountant, discusses the pitfalls of pricing based on self-worth and the benefits of value-based pricing. Emma shares her insights on why 'charge your worth' is a toxic concept that keeps women in business small, explaining how emotions can lead to inconsistent pricing. She introduces value-based pricing and provides actionable strategies to help women entrepreneurs price their services based on the results and transformations they deliver. Tune in for tips on overcoming imposter syndrome, avoiding comparison pitfalls, and shifting your pricing mindset to reflect true client outcomes.    Show Notes 00:00 Welcome to The Business BFF Podcast  00:35 The Problem with 'Charge Your Worth'  01:27 The Dangers of Pricing Based on Self-Worth  02:52 Real-Life Examples of Pricing Pitfalls  07:43 Understanding the Root Causes  09:44 Reframing Your Pricing Mindset  10:41 Practical Strategies for Value-Based Pricing  14:12 Final Thoughts and Staying Connected 

In episode two of The Business BFF podcast, host Emma Bowdler, founder ofThe Women's Accountant, discusses the importance of establishing business boundaries and non-negotiables to protect your time, energy, and mental health. Emma shares personal anecdotes and practical steps for defining and maintaining these boundaries, identifies warning signs of slipping boundaries, and emphasizes the significance of communication in setting and upholding these limits. The episode encourages business women to reclaim their balance and freedom, providing actionable advice to achieve the work-life harmony they originally set out for. Show Notes00:00 Welcome to the Business BFF Podcast 00:40 The Reality of Running Your Own Business 01:02 Understanding Business Boundaries and Non-Negotiables 03:48 Identifying Your Non-Negotiables 08:30 Warning Signs Your Boundaries Are Slipping 10:38 Reestablishing and Communicating Boundaries 13:54 Conclusion and Resources 

In the debut episode of 'The Business BFF' podcast, host Emma Bowdler, founder of The Women's Accountant explains the motivation behind launching the show. Emma discusses the pitfalls of typical business advice, the pressure women face in trying to manage everything, and the prevalence of incorrect business and tax advice in podcasts. She emphasizes creating businesses that align with personal values and offers candid, no-nonsense discussions aimed at helping women entrepreneurs build successful, unique businesses on their own terms.  Show Notes:  00:00 Welcome to the Business BFF Podcast  01:17 Why Start a Podcast Now?  01:35 The Flaws in Typical Business Advice  02:54 The Pressure on Women in Business  04:05 Misinformation in Business Podcasts  04:58 Conclusion and Takeaways 

Hi there, I'm Emma Bowdler, founder of The Women's Accountant. I am so excited to introduce you to The Business BFF, the podcast where fierce and fabulous women in business come together to dish out real talk, genius strategies, and the kind of honest advice only your besties would give. Whether you're dreaming big, hustling hard, or somewhere in between, this podcast is your go-to for navigating the internet. In each episode, we'll dive into topics that matter to business owners and hear from industry-leading experts on all things from how to unlock your cash flow to creating a business plan you'll actually use. You can expect plenty of laughter, light bulb moments, and maybe even a truth bomb or two along the way. So if you're ready to level up your business and have a little fun, hit the subscribe button and be sure to tune in to the Business BFF because every business needs a bestie. To talk to Emma and find out more about what we do, visit our website.