Welcome to the latest episode of The Business Awards Show, 'Why Numbers Count with the FD Consultant Romesh Jeyaseelanayagam'.

Romesh is a finance expert, podcast host and a long-time judge for the Best Business Women Awards. The conversation blends business wisdom, personal stories, and a good dose of humour about life as an accountant who once turned up to a barefoot office in a suit!

Romesh shares how, after a successful corporate career in FTSE 100 companies, he transitioned to working with start-ups and SMEs. He eventually launched The FD Consultant, which offers part-time "fractional" finance director services. His mission? To make top-level financial expertise accessible and affordable for growing businesses that can't yet justify a full-time FD.

Romesh's passion is helping business owners turn data into clear, simple insights that drive smarter decisions. He explains this is a much better alternative than getting lost in technical accounting jargon. As he puts it, "Numbers don't lie—they tell your story."

Additionally, the discussion dives into common financial pitfalls—like how SMEs can manage cash flow effectively and failing to spot profit opportunities. Throughout, Romesh manages to make numbers sound fun!

He also chats about his experience as a judge for the Best Businesswomen Awards. Initially unsure what to expect, Romesh says he was impressed by the integrity, robust process, and sense of community the awards foster. His insights illuminate the benefits of entering business awards and how to make your entry stand out.

Moving on, the conversation turns to Romesh's own business podcast, "Strive and Thrive," co-hosted with innovation expert Mike Oliver. The show explores all things entrepreneurship—from networking and leadership to time management and innovation—featuring guests who share lessons from their own business journeys.

It's an inspiring, warm, and practical conversation about the realities of running and scaling a business—with plenty of laughs, and some insightful learnings for entrepreneurs looking to scale or enter awards.

About Romesh

Romesh Jeyaseelanayagam brings warmth and clarity to the often intimidating world of business finance. As the founder of The FD Consultant, a collective of part-time finance directors, Romesh has spent over 15 years transforming how growing businesses approach financial leadership. With his engaging personality and deep expertise, Romesh bridges the gap between corporate financial best practices and the practical needs of SMEs, start-ups, and scale-ups. His journey from qualifying at a Top 4 accounting firm and working in senior finance roles at FTSE 100 companies to supporting high-growth ventures gives him a unique perspective that resonates with business owners seeking both financial rigour and practical, commercial guidance.

{1:45} Why Romesh started The FD Consultant five years ago.

{5:30} Essential advice to owners about their numbers.

{7:48} The difference between The FD Consultant and an accountant.

{12:15} The service that Romesh delivers to clients.

{14:42} The point clients need Romesh's help.

{19:45} Being a judge of the Best Businesswomen Awards.

{26:34} The Strive and Thrive podcast.

{30:41} Romesh's one big tip.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

https://bestsmeawards.co.uk/

Connect with Romesh: https://www.thefdconsultant.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rfjconsultingservices/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefdconsultant

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

X: https://x.com/ConsultantFd

Strive and Thrive podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@StriveAndThriveSeries

https://open.spotify.com/show/1aOiYxnQxaLnOWWIc2YAEE

Listen to our latest discussion Why you need a will with Nellie McQuinn.

Nellie addresses the misconception that wills are only for the wealthy. She notes that an estimated 72% of adults in the UK don't have a will. Young people in particular, believe they have no need to have one. Nellie soon explodes that myth!

She talks about the four key reasons why everybody needs a will.

• Guardianship - her number one priority. Any child under the age of 18 will be at the mercy of the courts without a will in place.
• "Common Law Partnerships" - there is no such thing in UK law, so without a will a surviving partner can be left with nothing.
• Blended families - A complex situation that needs the clarity a will offers.
• Avoiding family conflicts - a will ensures every family member knows where they stand whether they like it or not.

Poignantly, Nellie has designed an app to preserve the emotional legacies of loved ones. She explains the importance of passing on the stories of each family member from one generation to another and is currently raising funding to develop the concept.

But Nellie is not just a willwriter. She is an award-winning willwriter! She recently won a Silver Award for Best New Business at the Best Businesswomen Awards. And she was delighted to be a finalist in the British Will and Probate Awards. Discover why she entered at such an early stage of her business, and why she'll continue doing so.

This is a brilliant episode for anyone thinking of starting a business, wondering whether entering awards is a good idea at an early stage, or wants more information about wills and what they mean to you and your family.

About Nellie McQuinn

Nellie McQuinn is the Founder and CEO of AWAY Wills, a new kind of Will-writing company built for modern families. After a decade in children's television, most recently as Vice President, Head of Production at Moonbug Entertainment where she helped bring CoComelon and Blippi to global audiences, she had a major career pivot and retrained as a Will-writer whilst 6 weeks postpartum.

Becoming a mum of two shifted her focus from children's stories to family legacies. She saw that while media had embraced innovation and inclusivity, the world of Wills was still weighed down by tradition. AWAY Wills was born to change that, offering plain-English guidance for real, modern lives, from blended families to digital legacies.

{1:22} Why Nellie became a willwriter.

{3:45} Where the name "Away Wills" came from.

{4:35} Why everybody needs a will.

{8:01} The fallacy of "common law" partners.

{8:56} Why blended families must have a will.

{14:05} When not having a will can be disastrous.

{15:16} Nellie's app for preserving emotional legacies.

{18:25} Nellie's trip to Ireland to trace her Grandfather's journey.

{21:25} Why Nellie entered awards at such an early stage of her business.

{24:53} The challenges of starting a business and Nellie's tips for budding entrepreneurs.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

https://bestsmeawards.co.uk/

Connect with Nellie: https://www.awaywills.com/

https://www.nelliemcquinn.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/away-wills/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570424698308

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

X: https://x.com/AWAYWills

Our latest episode features an interview with Kayleigh Lloyd, the founder of brand studio Lloyd Creative. She helps ambitious female founders build personality-packed brands that are unapologetically true to who they are. With over 15 years of industry experience and a passion for bringing bold ideas to life, she helps women show up with confidence, clarity and personality.

Kayleigh discusses how she grew her confidence and business acumen by surrounding herself with successful businesswomen. She found early support in female-focused networking communities like Found & Flourish and Six Degrees in Exeter. This focus on supporting and celebrating others inspired her to create the "Outrageously You" awards, which started as a party for her own clients. The awards are unique because they celebrate personality, passion, and community, with categories like "Brave," "Vibrant," "Confident," and "Magnetic".

Kayleigh tells us about next year's awards and how she is planning an expansion to include workshops, brand photoshoots, and is looking for collaborators.

Kayleigh, emphasizes that branding is about much more than a logo—it's a "cocktail of elements" including color, font, and consistency that reflects a brand's personality, instills confidence in the founder, and acts as a magnet for ideal clients. She explains her brand discovery process allowing business owners to get the result that truly reflects their owner's personality.

We also get some valuable business tips from Kayleigh, including the need to surround yourself with people you aspire to emulate.

Kayleigh proves to be a ball of positivity and energy, and her branding business and awards are a beacon of creativity and support for ambitious businesswomen. Anyone interested in understanding how to create impact with their brand, or looking for a different kind of awards, must listen to this discussion.

{1:30} What led Kayleigh to set up her own business five years ago.

{3:45} Having the flexibility to work around children.

{4:53} How Kayleigh grew her business.

{6:21} How Kayleigh learned to run a business.

{7:55} Being part of various communities.

{9:30} Tips for shy networkers.

{10:46} Setting up her own awards in 2024.

{13:48} Where the "Outrageously You" name came from for her awards.

{14:55} How to get involved in the awards in 2026.

{17:04} Where and when is the final.

{18:04} Why branding is so important to any business.

{20:15} How Kayleigh works with client to create their brands.

{21:34} Kayleigh's tips for entrepreneurs.

{25:53} Ensuring personal branding is looked after.

{26:21} Designing the OY Award branding.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Kayleigh: https://www.outrageously-you.com/

https://www.lloyd-creative.co.uk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lloyd-creative/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KLloydCreative

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

Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/lloydcreative/

In this interview with Jackie Groundsell, founder of the long-running 1230 Women's Company, we garner some brilliant insights based on over 25 years in business.

Celebrated as the Queen of Connections, Jackie shares the fascinating story behind building one of the UK's first female-only business networks at a time when the landscape was still dominated by men. She is a recognised business mentor, consultant, radio show host and international speaker.

Furthermore, listeners will discover how Jackie grew the network from a single London lunch to over 32 groups nationwide, offering training, collaboration, and support for women in business. Her events include regular lunchtime meetings, conferences, expos, speednetworking, and networking bingo events!

She also highlights the essential role of local business communities and how involvement can open doors to unexpected partnerships, collaborations, and even award-winning opportunities.

As an experienced awards judge, Jackie provides insider insights into what makes an entry stand out. From demonstrating passion and clarity to aligning applications with the right categories, she explains what judges really look for.

Jackie goes on to share her top networking tips – from avoiding common mistakes like "business card dumping" to the importance of meaningful follow-up. Essentially, her advice emphasises that effective networking is about building relationships, not making quick sales, and that even one well-nurtured connection can change the course of a business.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, awards entrant, or networking newcomer, this episode is packed with practical strategies, inspirational stories, and timeless advice from one of the UK's most respected business connectors.

{1:49} Why Jackie set up 1230 TWC.

{6:35} The changing perceptions of networking.

{7:50} The difference in how men and women network.

{9:22} Why you must get involved in the local business community.

{12:44} Starting a radio show.

{16:20} What Jackie looks for in awards entries.

{20:15} Engaging fully with a charity as a business.

{21:56} The challenge of putting on major events.

{24:52} Networking no-nos.

{27:08} Tips for networking newbies.

{29:32} How to follow up after networking.

{32:51} Business cards - yes or no?

{35:45} More about 1230 TWC.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Jackie: https://1230.co.uk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1230-the-women's-company-ltd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1230Jackie/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1230jackie/

Evolution of FInance for Businesswomen Event: https://1230.co.uk/events/evolution_of_finance_businesswomen_finance_mental_health_22october/?occurrence=2025-10-22

In this interview with Jennie Bayliss we learn about her extensive entrepreneurial journey and latest innovative venture, Letterbox Cocktails. Jennie shares how her path began over 15 years ago with an award-winning virtual PA company. Over the years, she has expanded with a portfolio across premium drinks, mentoring, and programme leadership.

A major turning point came when Jennie's team entered and won the Business Show £100,000 VIP Launchpad competition. This transformed Letterbox Cocktails from a side hustle into a fully-fledged business. Since then, the brand has gone on to win the Best New Business Award at the SME Bedfordshire Awards and has reached the finals of the Best Business Women Awards, recognised for its innovation, packaging, and product excellence. She also ran a successful crowdfunding campaign, which not only raised essential funds for branding and packaging, but also boosted visibility.

Jennie explains the inspiration behind Letterbox Cocktails: her desire to move away from service-based businesses to a tangible product, redefining luxury in the ready-to-drink cocktail market. The unique concept of cocktails that fit through a letterbox caters to time-poor consumers. The company has already expanded into weddings and seasonal gifting, and expects growth in corporate clients.

Looking ahead, Jennie shares her plans to secure investment, scale the business toward £8–10 million annual turnover, and exit within seven years. She is aiming to outsource production as a practical growth strategy and sees awards and PR as key tools for credibility and exposure.

Throughout the conversation, Jennie highlights the importance of building strong networks, staying adaptable, and avoiding perfectionism in the startup phase. Her advice for entrepreneurs is to focus on visibility, customer needs, and execution over details like logos. For her, success comes from persistence, risk-taking, and leveraging every opportunity, from awards to mentoring.

This is an episode with some impactful lessons for both budding and established entrepreneurs.

{2:05} How Jennie ended up in the world of cocktails.

{5:45} Going through a crowdfunding process.

{7:12} Why Jennie chose to start a cocktails business.

{9:12} The uniqueness of the product and the benefits of home delivery.

{10:55} The best-selling cocktails.

{11:32} Letterbox Cocktail's typical clients.

{12:25} The preparation for VIP Launchpad.

{14:28} Did Jennie expect to win at VIP Launchpad?

{15:21} Winning the Best New Business at the Beds SME Awards.

{16:33} The PR Jennie has gained through awards.

{18:22} Longer term plans for Letterbox Cocktails.

{19:22} Producing in-house v outsourcing.

{20:07} Jennie's business tips.

{22:30} The essential need to do something different.

{23:05} Jennie's advice for startups.

{25:46} Stop procrastinating - take action!

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Jennie: https://www.letterbox-cocktails.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.letterbox-cocktails.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/letterboxcocktails1

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@letterbox_cocktails

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LetterboxCocktails

In this episode of The Business Awards Show, our interview with Clare Haynes, coach, trainer, and founder of Wildfire, reveals her 20+ years' journey as a conversation coach. Clare shares how she transitioned from fundraising and sales into coaching, the challenges of starting a business before the age of social media, and the importance of networking and community.

She offers practical communication tips, such as the power of the pause and refraining from habitual apologies. Additionally, she reflects on gender differences in coaching, especially regarding men forced to attend.

Clare also reflects on her experiences entering and winning business awards, including the #iAlso 100 Awards, Ladies First Awards, and Women Who Awards, highlighting how awards encourage reflection and business growth. Furthermore, she tells us why entering the Best Businesswomen Awards this year was such a positive experience.

The conversation explores the value of authenticity, knowing your values, and continuous learning as keys to long-term business success. Clare and Debbie go on to discuss how technology impacts human connection and conversations, with Claire stressing the need to "pick up the phone" more often.

Looking ahead, Clare plans to expand into charity work, making coaching and communication support more accessible to vulnerable groups.

{1:29} Clare's business journey to starting Wildfire.

{3:30} Getting a coaching business off the ground.

{4:39} The importance of networking on the journey.

{5:22} Clare's tips for confident conversations.

{7:00} The difference working with men and women.

{8:34} Working with groups.

{9:39} When awards appeared on the radar.

{10:40} Being nominated for the #iAlso 100 and the brilliance of Small Business Britain.

{14:08} The Ladies First Awards.

{15:21} The difference between business awards.

{17:50} Providing a deep dive into your business for awards applications.

{19:40} Clare's secret to business longevity.

{22:30} Clare's top 3 values.

{22:45} Maintaining personal development and an ongoing commitment to networking.

{24:27} Meeting people on social media and then meeting them IRL.

{27:13} How the generations learn from each other in business.

{28:30} How tech is killing conversations.

{31:36} The benefit of coaching over the phone in some scenarios.

{33:31} Wildfire's future plans.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Clare: https://scottmedia.uk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wildfire-uk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clare.haynes.Wildfire/

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wildfirespark

Pinterest: https://uk.pinterest.com/wildfiresparks/

Small Business Britain: https://smallbusinessbritain.uk/

f:Entrepreneur #iAlso 100: https://f-entrepreneur.com/fentrepreneur-100/

In this episode of the Business Awards Show, host Debbie Gilbert interviews Sophie Goffin, known as The Purry Godmother, a finalist in the Best Business Women Awards and the Small Awards.

Sophie shares her journey from studying animal behavior to creating a business dedicated to cat care, where she combines her academic background with hands-on experience to address issues like feline separation anxiety, enrichment, and well-being.

We hear how Sophie's business grew organically from pet sitting, particularly after discovering that many cats suffer when left alone. This realization inspired her to specialize exclusively in cats, offering care that goes beyond feeding to include play, stimulation, and comfort. Her dedication not only benefits cats but also helps owners enjoy guilt-free holidays, knowing their pets are happy and engaged.

The discussion highlights Sophie's turning point when she decided to invest in a business coach, Dominic Hodgson, who encouraged her to develop strong branding and premium services. Out of this came her memorable brand identity The Purry Godmother, reflecting her love of animals and her creative approach to marketing, using 'Disneyfication'.

Sophie also speaks about the challenges and responsibilities of working in the unregulated pet care industry. She emphasizes the importance of insurance, first aid training, safety procedures, and trust between clients and carers. Furthermore, she believes high standards are essential for peace of mind for any cat owner who views their cat as part of the family.

The conversation shifts toward awards, where Sophie outlines how entering them has boosted her reputation and credibility. Awards not only validate her work but also strengthen client trust in a field where professional recognition matters. Indeed, it's become part of her growth strategy.

Closing the episode, Sophie offers practical business advice: learn good marketing beyond just social media. She stresses the value of networking, email marketing, and creative campaigns, which have helped her attract the right clients. Sophie's story is an inspiring example of resilience, reinvention, and building a business that aligns passion with professionalism.

{1:48} Sophie's journey to setting up her business.

{3:18} A daunting step.

{4:06} How damaging a knee forced a change in direction.

{7:28} How working with a business coach was a gamechanger.

{8:36} Disneyfying the business to create her brand.

{9:28} Where Sophie's love of animals came from.

{10:50} What Sophie offers her customers.

{14:01} Starting an online membership group.

{14:56} Making the final of the Small Awards.

{16:15} When awards first appeared on the radar.

{17:45} The dangers of an unregulated pet industry.

{21:49} What you need to start a petsitting business.

{24:21} Where new clients come from.

{25:43} Entering more awards.

{27:18} To let cats out or not.

{32:53} Sophie's number one business tip.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Julie: https://www.thepurrygodmother.co.uk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thepurrygodmother/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepurrygodmother

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepurrygodmother