From the Tools to the Boardroom - The Best of the Know Your Numbers Podcast

In this very special episode of The Know Your Numbers Podcast, Craig Alexander Rattray takes a sunny moment in Crete to reflect on the journey so far, and to share some of the best insights, most powerful lessons, and biggest turning points from over 25 incredible guests.

From footballers-turned-financiers to business owners fighting for survival, from funding experts to accountants on a mission to deliver real value - this episode brings together some of the most memorable and meaningful moments.

If you’ve ever felt alone, overwhelmed or just wanted to hear from people who truly understand the rollercoaster of running a business – this is the one for you.

 

 

Key Themes Covered:

✅ How getting financial clarity changes everything
✅ The emotional cost of not knowing your numbers
✅ Real stories of risk, resilience, and rebuilding
✅ What banks and funders really want to see
✅ Why ignoring your finances can quietly sink you
✅ The mindset shift from doer to director
✅ And the undeniable truth: You don’t know what you don’t know

 

  Key Takeaways:

✅ Every business has a story behind the numbers – but clarity and structure make a difference
✅ Don’t wait until it’s too late – ask for help early
✅ You need up-to-date information to make good decisions – otherwise you're flying blind
✅ It's not a weakness to bring in support – it's how the best businesses grow
✅ From cash flow to confidence – the right systems change the whole game

 

 

Memorable Quotes (Direct from the Guests):

“You wouldn’t jump in a car, put a blindfold on, and expect to get to your destination safely.” – Craig Alexander Rattray

“You can build a business from anything – but you need to learn how to run it properly.” – Peter Archibald

“This will change everything – real-time satellite imagery, the internet of things... and real global impact.” – Chris Newlands

“I went from earning over £100k to selling photocopiers for £18k. I had to start over.” – Lee Mair

“We don’t sell accounts. We sell insight. That’s where the value is.” – Laura Taylor

“If you get the right funding, the right team, and the right focus – you can turn anything around.” – Jordan Howard

 

 

 

 

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

📌 Know Your Numbers Website – Helping business owners go from chaos to clarity
📌 SpaceAye – Chris Newlands’ groundbreaking platform for global change
📌 Mair Finance – Lee’s mission to support footballers into finance
📌 Halden Construction – Peter’s company rebuilding stronger
📌 Bright Flamingo – Laura Taylor’s consultancy for modern accountants