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 control
- 10:43 – How to cut through jargon and translate numbers into insights you can actually use to make decisions
- 13:04 – Profit First as a tool to identify what’s broken and where to focus
- 17:01 – 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 grind
- 28:11 – Customising Profit First to stay flexible and resilient through ups and downs
- 29:57 – Common misconceptions about Profit First
- 37:55 – 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.
QUOTES
“Profit First is not just opening bank accounts and moving money around. That’s only the first step. It’s about understanding what area needs focus and what needs fixing.” – Katie Crismale-Marshall
“Working on your business, even when you’re overwhelmed, is about taking baby steps. Step by little step, you create a business that can run without you.” – Katie Crismale-Marshall
“Business owners want things simple and easy. So I kept on working on the business, building a team, and pulling myself out of the equation.” – Steven Mulligan
“Don’t be scared to ask a question. Everybody is in a situation where the economy is unstable and money is a big thing. Just reach out, ask the questions.” – Steven Mulligan
RESOURCES
Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
CONNECT WITH STEVEN MULLIGAN
- Website: https://numberkrunchers.com.au/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-mulligan-b1bb5192/
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/UCGh889iRtnzqDh8RVPY7YCw
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profitfirstanz
