From Creative Passion To Profit

Partnering with another creative can open doors — but it can also bring drama if you’re not prepared. From clashing visions to financial headaches, not all partnerships are built to last. So, how do you protect yourself and give your collaboration the best chance of success?

In this episode:

“Partnerships That Work: How to Build Creative Collaborations That Last”

We walk through the key ingredients of a successful creative partnership — from shared values and clear communication to choosing the right legal structure. Whether you're thinking of teaming up with a friend, fe...

Running a Community Interest Company (CIC) is all about making a difference — but that doesn’t mean you get to skip the taxman. Many social enterprises are surprised to learn they’re still subject to corporation tax, VAT, PAYE, and other reporting rules.

In this episode:

“Community Interest Companies and Tax: What You Need to Know”

We break down the essential tax rules for CICs — covering corporation tax, VAT, payroll, grants, and smart tax planning tips. If you’re running a CIC or thinking of starting one, understanding your tax obligations is vital to building a...

If you’re building a business that’s all about making a difference — but you still care about generating profit — a social enterprise might be your perfect fit. And when it comes to legal structures, a Community Interest Company (CIC) is one of the most popular options out there.

In this episode:

“Community Interest Companies (CICs): Could This Be the Right Business Model for You?”

We break down what a CIC actually is, how it compares to a charity, and what makes it different from a private company. From the community interest test to the all-i...

Think social enterprises are just fluffy charities with no financial backbone? Think again. In this week’s episode, we’re talking about real businesses — the kind that make money and a difference.

In this episode:

"Social Enterprises: Doing Good and Making Profit"

We explore what social enterprises actually are, how they work, and why they’re reshaping the business world. From CICs and cooperatives to community benefit societies and charities, you’ll learn about the different models and how to choose the one that fits your mission — and your money goals.

With decades...

Many employees miss out on tax relief simply because they don’t know they’re entitled to it. If you’ve spent your own money to do your job, you may be able to claim that back — and this episode shows you how.

In this episode:

"Claiming Tax Relief Online: How Employees Can Save Money and Boost Take-Home Pay"

We cover what expenses you can claim, how to claim online, and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re working in a theatre, gallery, studio — or anywhere else — you may be entitled to claim tax relief on...

Working for yourself can sound like the ultimate dream — no boss, flexible hours, total freedom. But once reality hits, it’s not unusual to feel isolated, overwhelmed, or even nostalgic for your old nine-to-five.

In this episode;

"Five Motivation Tips for Solopreneurs"

I share five practical tips to help you stay motivated when you're building a business on your own. Whether you're working from the kitchen table or a co-working space, these ideas will help you keep going — even on the days when it feels like nothing’s working.

I’ve spent deca...

Working for yourself can sound like the ultimate dream — no boss, flexible hours, total freedom. But once reality hits, it’s not unusual to feel isolated, overwhelmed, or even nostalgic for your old nine-to-five.

In this episode;

"Five Motivation Tips for Solopreneurs"

I share five practical tips to help you stay motivated when you're building a business on your own. Whether you're working from the kitchen table or a co-working space, these ideas will help you keep going — even on the days when it feels like nothing’s working.

I’ve spent deca...

We all have business habits. We have some good habits that give us the edge in business, and we have bad habits that quietly hold us back from the progress we want to make.

In this episode;

"Four Bad Business Habits to Break"

I dig into four specific bad habits that nearly every business owner falls into at some stage, even if we think we’re doing everything right.

Whether you’re just starting out, or you’ve been running things for decades, these habits can sneak up on you and chip a...

If you’ve ever found yourself dreading book-keeping, losing track of invoices, or feeling like you’re running your business through a fogged-up windscreen, this episode of is for you.

I’ll walk you through why cloud accounting isn’t just another buzzword or a painful admin exercise, but a genuine game-changer for freelancers, small business owners, and anyone who wants to take control of their finances.

I promise the next half ten minutes will be worth your time spent listening.

Timestamped episode summary:

When it comes to describing your business, do you really think your legal structure or job title tells the whole story? In this episode of "From Creative Passion To Profit", I dig into what really matters when you’re talking about your business—and why the usual labels often do you a disservice.

If you’ve ever hesitated before introducing yourself as a freelancer, self-employed, a charity, or a voluntary organisation, you’re not alone.

I’ll challenge some of the common perceptions (and misperceptions) of what makes a 'real' business, and show you why that think...

If you run a business, you know how cash flow can feel like a constant headache. But what if managing your business’s lifeblood could get a whole lot easier? In this episode of "From Creative Passion to Profit", I’m getting into the topic of cash flow management.

Not just as a concept you’ve heard tossed around, but as a practical, vital skill you can actually master.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been struggling to stay ahead, this episode arms you with seven straightforward strategies I’ve seen work first-hand...

My business life has always revolved around one essential principle: helping creative professionals and entrepreneurs get control of their finances and build sustainable businesses.

Having started from modest roots, and after years of managing my own business, I know how crucial it is to value both your passion and your time. That’s why, in this episode of "From Creative Passion to Profit", I’m posing a rhetorical question that’s triggered debates at studios, exhibitions, and online forums:

Should artists work for free?

In fact, it’s not just a question for artists...

Are you feeling bogged down by creative goals that seem too big, too vague, or just plain out of reach? If so, this episode of "From Creative Passion to Profit" is just for you.

I often hear from creatives who are overwhelmed by ambitions that feel a galaxy away, and I know how frustration can quickly turn into stalled momentum.

In this week’s episode, I break down how turning your dreams into SMART targets—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound objectives—can be a game changer.

Whether your goal is to earn more f...

If you've ever found yourself tangled in the creative complexities of your business and side-lined the financial aspect, then this episode of "From Creative Passion to Profit" is exactly what you need.

In "Why Ignoring Your Numbers is Killing Your Business," I share insights drawn from over thirty years of experience with creatives, emphasising the stark reality of financial ignorance.

Many creatives embark on their career purely driven by passion, but neglecting the role of numbers can transform their endeavour from a thriving business into a costly hobby.

Through this episode, I go...

If you’re a creative professional who’s been shying away from the nitty-gritty of managing invoices, then today’s episode of "From Creative Passion to Profit" is a must listen for you.

We're talking about the art of invoicing - an aspect of business that many creatives often deem unglamorous but is fundamentally integral to reinforcing your respect, sustaining your business, and ultimately driving your profit.

In this episode, I'm exploring why invoicing is much more than just a transactional necessity; it’s about establishing boundaries, setting professional standards, and ensuring you get paid for your...

Whether you're a painter, musician, designer, filmmaker, or writer, understanding how to safeguard your creative endeavours can ensure that your work remains yours and that you fully benefit from your hard work.

We'll be exploring three critical domains: copyright, trademarks, and patents, and I'll share practical tips that you can apply to protect your creations in the UK and beyond.

By listening to this episode you'll learn about your automatic copyright protection - a unique shield that wraps around your creations the moment they're made.

Timestamped summary

00:00 "Protecting Creative Work"

Developed by psychiatrist Elizabeth Kubler Ross, the Kubler Ross Greif Cycle is a brilliant model described the emotional stages people go through following a loss. But what's this got to do with business?

In this episode of "From Creative Passion to Profit" titled "Emotional journey of creatives: the Kubler Ross Grief Cycle", we're exploring this remarkably relevant topic for creatives and freelancers: the Kubler Ross Grief Cycle.

You’ll get to learn about how this psychological model, originally crafted to define the emotional stages after personal loss, has practical applications in navigating the fluctuating, often un...

In this episode of "From Creative Passion To Profit" we're talking about social enterprises, focusing on how they can be a great intersection between creativity and social good.

Social Enterprises in the UK: Models for Impact and Profit

We'll explore various business models prevalent in the UK, such as community interest companies (CICs) and cooperatives, and how they align profit with purpose.

By listening in, you'll learn about the structures that best serve your project's mission, whether it's addressing environmental issues or supporting community growth.

This is a must-listen for aspiring...

Welcome back to another episode of "From Creative Passion to Profit", with me, Mahmood Reza.

In this episode, titled "The Paradox Power of Procrastination for Creatives" we explore the multifaceted world of procrastination.

We often view procrastination as a negative force, linked to laziness and inefficiency.

However, I'd like to challenge this perception by exploring how procrastination, if harnessed correctly, can be a powerful tool for creative individuals.

Mentioned in this episode:

Training

Training

Training

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The perils of being paid late as a creative!

As a business owner, I know how frustrating it can be when payments don't come in on time. It's not just the money that's at stake, but your entire business operation.

In this week's episode of From Creative Passion to Profit, we're diving into the critical topic of getting paid on time.

I promise, by the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer picture of why timely payments matter and how they impact your cash flow, mood, and motivation.

You’ll he...

In this episode, a topic that affects not just your creative career but also your personal life. Yep, we're talking money and relationships!

Money Management Tips for Couples

Talking about finances can be a minefield for many couples, often leading to tension and arguments. It's actually one of the biggest reasons for separations, but it doesn't have to be that way.

Through this episode, my goal is to give you the confidence to face your financial life together, making sure that when times are tough, finances won't add extra stress.

You're...

In this episode we're covering a topic that might not instinctively come to mind when you think of creativity and numbers: the collaboration between artists and businesses.

People often assume these two worlds don't align due to their different focuses - art on creativity, business on profitability - but this episode will challenge that notion.

Over more than three decades, I've witnessed how successful partnerships between artists and businesses can lead to ground-breaking results.

We'll uncover the common ground shared by these seemingly disparate entities and explore how both sides can come together...

As a creative entrepreneur, establishing financial boundaries might not be the first thing on your mind, but it's essential for the sustainability of your business.

In this episode "Financial Boundaries for Creatives," I delve into why setting financial boundaries is crucial for protecting your time, energy, and income.

We'll explore how to see yourself as an employee of your own business, and how creating separate accounts and paying yourself regularly can transform your creative pursuit into a profitable business.

Whether you're a freelancer, self-employed, or just starting, this episode can guide you towards...

Creative Success = Financial Balance with Flexible Budget Plans

As a creative individual, dealing with irregular income can be daunting.

In this episode of From "Creative Passion To Profit", titled "How Creatives Can Budget for Regular Income," I, Mahmood, tackle one of the biggest challenges faced by those in the arts and creative world—budgeting.

Have you ever felt the high of being fully booked and having commissions flying off the shelves, only to be met with silence and income droughts the following month?

You're not alone.

But here's the go...

"If you don't drive your business, you will be driven out of business." - B.C. Forbes

If you’re like most creative professionals, you often think your artistic work isn't compatible with business. But ignoring the business side can hamper your potential and drain your passion.

My aim in "From Creative Passion to Profit" is to bridge the gap between creativity and business, helping artists thrive in both realms.

With 25+ years of transforming numbers into business success, I'll share key mindset shifts to elevate your creative career economically and sustainably.

Th...

Welcome to another episode of Numbers Knowhow, where we dive into the significance of attitude in business. I'm Mahmood Reza, your host, and for nearly three decades I've been guiding businesses, entrepreneurs, and even charities to success.

In this episode, "The Power of Attitude," we delve into how your mindset shapes your business journey.

If you're a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone intrigued by personal development within a business framework, this episode is for you. By tuning in, you'll understand the concept of attitude and mindsets, explore the different types of mindsets, and learn...

Budgeting: The Strategic Path to Business Growth

Where you are today may not be where you want to be tomorrow, but it's influenced by your past.

My business journey of over 25 years has been about helping business owners and entrepreneurs navigate the often complex world of finance. Today, I'm excited to share one of the most powerful tools you can wield - budgeting.

This episode of Numbers Knowhow, "The Power of Budgeting," is designed to upend the commonly held misconceptions about budgeting and show you how transformative it can be for your business.<...

Welcome to another episode of Numbers Knowhow, where we break down complex financial concepts into digestible pieces. I'm your host, Mahmood Reza, and today we're talking economies of scale.

You've probably heard the term before, perhaps in boardroom meetings, financial news articles, or even casual business conversations.

But what does it actually mean?

More importantly, how can you, no matter the size or field of your business, harness the power of economies of scale to reduce costs, increase profits, and ultimately grow sustainably?

In the episode, I'll explain this concept through...

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Numbers Knowhow, where we delve deep into the lifeblood of small business success—trust. I'm Mahmood, your host, and today we'll break down why trust is more than a mere buzzword. It’s the backbone of customer loyalty, employee retention, and valuable relationships with suppliers. Imagine your local cafe where the barista remembers your favorite order, or a plumber who consistently shows up on time. These aren’t just random acts of kindness; they're strategic moves that build an unshakable foundation of trust. Trust is what keeps customers coming back, makes employees loyal, and es...

If you're a business owner or an entrepreneur, you might have experienced the thrill of landing a huge deal or seeing your sales skyrocket almost overnight.

The sense of accomplishment and the rush of excitement can be intoxicating.

But what if I told you this rapid growth could actually put your business at serious risk?

In this week's Numbers Knowhow podcast episode titled "The Growth Trap: Avoiding Overtrading," I’ll guide you through the treacherous waters of rapid growth and help you avoid the pitfalls that could lead to financial disaster.

We...

"Passion might drive the car, but it's the planning, effort, and numbers that fill the gas tank, map the route, and ensure you reach your destination, helping you to Plan It, Do It, PROFIT."

Today, I'm going to challenge a belief that's so commonly accepted in business circles: the idea that passion alone can lead to success.

The truth?

It's utter nonsense.

I'm Mahmood Reza, and in this episode of Numbers Knowhow, we're diving deep into why passion without planning and sweat is a recipe for failure.

The heart...

In this episode of Numbers Knowhow, I’ll be covering a topic that’s often overlooked but incredibly impactful: kindness in business.

Now, you might be thinking, isn’t business supposed to be cutthroat and competitive?

Yet, my own experience and a wealth of research suggest otherwise.

Kindness isn’t just a nice to have; it’s a game changer.

We often think of kindness as a sign of weakness, especially in the business world where aggression and dominance are sometimes seen as the keys to success. But let's flip the script.

Financial Accountability is Your Roadmap to Sustainable Business Growth

These words resonate deeply with the essence of financial accountability, a subject that often gets side-lined in the hustle of running a business.

But what if I told you that the art of being financially accountable can help steer you not just towards survival but to true business success?

This episode is all about dissecting the backbone of financial accountability and helping you understand how keeping a tight rein on your fi...

The Balanced Business Journey: Managing Isolation and Growth

I know all too well that the path to business ownership can often feel isolating.

It’s a road many of us have walked, with its unique set of challenges and triumphs.

In our latest episode titled, "The Lonely Road of Business Ownership," I'm talking you through this solitary journey, and proving that you’re not alone in this experience.

We'll explore various ways to reframe the feeling of isolation into opportunities for growth and creativity.

Timestamped Summary:

The Human Side of Business Ownership

“Ships do not sail themselves. They need a captain with a steady hand on the wheel, eyes on the horizon, and sometimes an ability to weather the storm." – Mahmood Reza

Owning a business isn't just a financial venture; it's an emotional journey that tests your resilience, decision-making skills, and interpersonal abilities.

In my latest episode of "Numbers Knowhow", "The Human Side of Business Ownership: A Journey Beyond the Balance Sheet," I dive deep into the often-overlooked human elements that drive business success.

This episode isn't just...

How does YOUR 'garden' grow?

"Think of your business as a garden," I tell people.

It helps take the complexity out of the financial jargon.

Where you are today with your business may not be where you want to be tomorrow, but it’s shaped by the seeds you're planting today.

Hi, I'm Mahmood Reza from Numbers Knowhow and in this episode of the Numbers Knowhow podcast, I've boiled it all down to simple terms.

Whether you’re just starting out or trying to scale to new heights, understanding the...

In this episode of the Numbers Knowhow podcast, "Financial Jargon and How to Explore It Like a City", we're going on a quick trip away to demystifying those intimidating financial terms that often leave business owners feeling lost and out of control.

Hi, I'm Mahmood Reza.

Imagine stepping off a plane in a foreign country without knowing the language – that’s what it’s like diving into financial statements if you’re not familiar with the terminology.

But fear not, just as you’d pick up a few key phrases to survive in a new plac...

Whether you're a business owner, artist, or creative, mastering your business finances is key to staying sustainable and making a profit.

Hi I'm Mahmood Reza the man behind Numbers Knowhow.

In our latest episode, I'm unveiling the philosophy behind "Numbers Knowhow" — and how three simple steps can transform your financial future.