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Season 3 kicks off with a candid conversation featuring Robert Schogger, co-founder of Metspace London Ltd.

Robert shares his journey from leaving school at 17 to building a successful business, moving from an entry-level "gofer" role in the 1980s to running his own company. A key part of that story is his evolving relationship with business finance...from using post-dated cheques to securing credit lines with established lenders like Arkle Finance of Weatherbys Bank.

A big part of Robert’s success has been his long-term connection with Guild member Nash Giardina at Ideal Leasing & Finance. Their relationship, which spans over two decades, highlights how valuable it is for business owners to work with professionals who truly understand the finance landscape.

This episode dives into the importance of finding the right lender, the right finance product, and how hard that still is in today's market. Robert also shares his frustration with the lack of clear signposting available for business owners trying to navigate the maze funding options.

One question that was asked..."Is the UK the only nation in the world that consists of so many lenders offering so many finance options?" If so, are UK businesses in a unique business finance black hole?

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To listen to the Podcast, all episodes can be found on all the major platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube and https://bfm.buzzsprout.com/

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In this special episode, David and Trevor sit down with Stephen Bassett, Chair of The Guild of Business Finance Professionals, to talk about the state of business lending in the UK.

On March 13, 2025, the Government launched a call for evidence to review the current lending landscape and better understand what’s holding UK businesses back from getting the best financial support they need.

It’s a conversation that builds on previous episodes, all 3 voice the growing concerns and especially around ensuring that business owners’ best interests are at risk unless the signposting to a business finance professional is not high enough.

Are lenders who deal directly with business owners really acting in their clients’ best interests? Or are sales targets taking priority? And is the pressure to compete leading to questionable marketing tactics that are misleading and are leaving many business owners in the dark and, at worst, with the wrong and/or an expensive debt option.

Stephen doesn’t hold back. He’s calling on the Government to recognise the chaos in the marketplace and the urgent need for proper signposting, so that businesses know where to turn for reliable advice before taking on debt.

All three bring deep experience and strong views to the table, tackling the real obstacles businesses face in finding the right finance from the right lenders. They argue that a trusted advisory route is key to helping UK businesses survive, grow, and boost the economy.

Agree? Disagree? Got your own experience to share whether it be good, bad, or ugly? Drop a message and join this ongoing conversation.

Support the show

Please subscribe and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter/X. Just search for 'Business Finance Matters'.

To listen to the Podcast, all episodes can be found on all the major platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube and https://bfm.buzzsprout.com/

All comments are welcomed and may be discussed on future episodes and you may get award a BFM mug!

Thanks for listening

Send us a text

Reflections, Insights, and What’s Next

In the final episode of Season 2, David and Trevor take a well-earned break in the stunning Algarve and look back on the standout moments from the past nine episodes.

As the BFM Podcast marks its first anniversary — alongside The Guild’s birthday on 6 June — a reminder to members: the AGM will take place on 3 June at County Hall, London.

This episode features valuable insights from a recent meeting with Rachael Raymond, Head of Broker Sales, and Ben Frank, Relationship Manager at Funding Circle.

In that meeting, David and Trevor raise important concerns around the use of misleading language in the marketing of debt finance, reinforcing the vital role of qualified professionals — particularly members of The Guild of Business Finance Professionals — in helping businesses secure the right funding.

The pair also revisit some of the season’s most inspiring guest stories. Notably, in Episode 6, former England and Leicester rugby star Rory Underwood reflects on his sporting career, time in the RAF, and his journey as a business owner.

With exciting plans already underway for future seasons, David and Trevor thank you for tuning in and encourage you to keep your feedback coming.

Support the show

Please subscribe and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter/X. Just search for 'Business Finance Matters'.

To listen to the Podcast, all episodes can be found on all the major platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and YouTube and https://bfm.buzzsprout.com/

All comments are welcomed and may be discussed on future episodes and you may get award a BFM mug!

Thanks for listening