Your year-end accounts shouldn’t just be a box-ticking exercise. In this episode, Nicola walks you through what your accounts are really telling you about your business — and how to use them to make smarter decisions.

You’ll learn what each key report means, from the profit and loss to the balance sheet, and how to spot trends that reveal your business’s true financial health. Nicola also explains the difference between cash and profit, why your accountant’s adjustments matter, and how to read your figures with confidence.

If you’ve ever looked at your accounts and felt unsure what they actually mean, this episode will help you turn them into a powerful tool for clarity and control.

What You’ll Learn:

• The key sections of your year-end accounts and what they show you.
• The difference between cash flow, profit, and retained earnings.
• How to use your accounts to make better strategic decisions.

Resources & Links:

I’ve written a book that expands on the topics in this podcast and comes with a companion guide. Learn more at www.thenumbersquarter.co.uk/book.

About the Podcast:

The Balanced Business – The Director’s Handbook is a 12‑part podcast series hosted by Bedford‑based Chartered Accountant Nicola Hageman. Designed for UK small business owners and company directors, the podcast explains how to run a Limited company with more clarity, confidence, and control. Each episode covers a practical topic – from choosing your business structure and staying compliant with HMRC to budgeting, VAT, systems, and delegating. The series is based on Nicola’s book and companion guide, available at www.thenumbersquarter.co.uk/book.

About Nicola and The Numbers Quarter:

Nicola Hageman is the founder of The Numbers Quarter, a friendly and approachable accountancy practice based in Bedford. She specialises in helping owner‑managed businesses grow their profits, plan for the future, and reduce stress. Nicola is known for her plain‑speaking advice and passion for aligning personal and business goals.

Connect with Nicola:

• Instagram – www.instagram.com/nicola_hageman
• LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/in/nicolahageman
• Website – www.thenumbersquarter.co.uk