April 11, 2024

From the Trenches to the Boardroom with Michael Harley

On this episode of the Gross Profit Podcast, James Kennedy sits down with Michael Harley, Fractional CFO and the visionary Founder of Breakthrough CFO where his mission is to let you focus on what you do best—running your business—while his team ensures your finances are in impeccable order.
Gross Profit Podcast
The Gross Profit Podcast
From the Trenches to the Boardroom with Michael Harley
Loading
/

Show Notes

In this episode James Kennedy chats with Michael Harley, Fractional CFO and the visionary Founder of Breakthrough CFO.

Michael’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Transitioning from the disciplined life in the British Army to the dynamic world of finance, he has mastered the art of applying military precision to business finance management. At Breakthrough CFO, Michael’s mission is to let you focus on what you do best—running your business—while his team ensures your finances are in impeccable order.

What You’ll Learn:

  • The Art of Business Discipline: Discover how Michael’s military background has shaped his approach to finance, instilling a level of discipline that’s crucial for business success.
  • Identifying Your Business’ Battle Rhythm: Learn about the concept of a business’ battle rhythm and how adhering to it can steer your company towards success.
  • Taking Control of Your Finances: Michael shares his insights on the fundamental financial aspects every business owner should manage effectively, from cash-flow forecasts to long-term financial planning.

Episode Highlights:

  • “Michael, how has your experience in the British Army influenced your approach to financial management?”: An exploration into how discipline and strategic planning in the military can translate into successful business practices.
  • “Can you explain the concept of ‘business’ battle rhythm’ and its importance?”: Michael delves into how a well-defined operational tempo can lead to greater efficiency and success.
  • “What are the common financial pitfalls that businesses face, and how can they be avoided?”: Practical advice from Michael on steering clear of typical financial management mistakes.
  • “For businesses struggling with their finances, what first steps do you recommend to gain control?”: Michael provides actionable steps for businesses to start taking control of their financial destiny.

Michael Harley’s extensive background, from serving in the British Army to holding pivotal roles at Amazon, Trainline, and other fast-growing companies, has equipped him with over 20,000 hours of experience in helping companies manage and optimize their finances. His passion for empowering small and medium-sized businesses in the UK with strategic financial tools is evident in his work with Breakthrough CFO.

Michael poses some crucial questions for every business owner to consider regarding their control over finances, from understanding monthly earnings to preparing for VAT bills and beyond.

This podcast is tagged under:

The Gross Profit Podcast

More Episodes

Merushka Chetty

Chris Gwinn – CFO Adds $1M EBITDA Without Timesheets

In this episode, James Kennedy sits down with Chris Gwinn, CFA and founder of Midwest CFO, to unpack how a fractional CFO helped a $7.5M digital agency boost gross margins from 26% to 48% and add $1M in EBITDA – without forcing creatives into traditional timesheets. Chris shares why he exited a successful process-improvement consultancy to build a more recurring, finance-driven practice, how he uses podcasts as a growth engine, and the simple pricing and cost-allocation shifts any B2B services firm can use to increase valuation.

Listen Now »
Merushka Chetty

Carolina Aponte – Venezuelan Immigrant’s Rise to Top CFO Success

In this episode, James Kennedy sits down with Carolina Aponte – fractional CFO, founder, and co-host of the Breaking Even Better podcast – to trace her journey from teen tour guide in Venezuela to award-winning North Carolina business owner. Carolina shares how she arrived in the U.S. at 20 without a high school diploma, juggled three jobs to survive, and used night classes plus on-the-job learning to climb from receptionist to controller and ultimately firm owner.

They unpack what a great controller actually does, how finance leaders can influence (but not control!) CEOs, and why relationships, resilience, and “improv” are just as important as debits and credits. Carolina also talks about helping more than 10 clients break the $1M revenue barrier and how her team-based model delivers 90%+ client retention.

Listen Now »
Merushka Chetty

Nick Bilotta – The Medieval Accounting Trick That Still Works Today

In this episode, James Kennedy sits down with Nick Bilotta, Founder of Bilotta & Co. CPAs, to explore two powerful concepts often misunderstood in the accounting world: fund accounting and financial storytelling. Nick shares why fund accounting – often dismissed as an “old-school” practice – is becoming more relevant than ever for nonprofits, contractors, and organizations that need transparency, donor confidence, and better decision-making. He also breaks down how great accountants don’t just report numbers – they translate financials into narratives that inspire trust, secure funding, and shape an organization’s future. From motorcycle technician to SEC reporting leader to firm owner, Nick’s unconventional journey gives him a unique perspective on the role of modern CPAs, fractional CFOs, and the importance of clarity in financial communication.

Listen Now »