by Debra Robinson | Aug 7, 2025 | Blog, Cash Flow Confidence, Dirty Little Secrets about Cash Flow, DLS
A Note from Debra: Elevate Your Skillset With Cashflow Clarity
Whether navigating growth, weathering uncertainty, or simply trying to make sense of the numbers — one truth always holds: Cash Flow = Empowerment
As I prepare for retirement, after years of working alongside incredible business owners, I have become a cashflow expert.
If you’re a business owner, CFO, bookkeeper, or any accounting professional looking to level up your financial expertise; a cash flow forecasting tool will offer a higher-level service to your clients.The following truths have held steady no matter the industry, economy, or stage of business:
1. Bring in Outside PerspectiveAdding a Fractional CFO to your financial team, helps educate owners on how to read their financials through a CEO’s lens — not just a CPA’s. Numbers tell a story. Learning what your story is will help you make decisions proactively, not reactively.
2. Follow the Money Can you trace the money story from your Profit & Loss to your Balance Sheet? Most can’t. But this connection holds the key to your cash flow story and how to learn what your total outflow of cash is on a monthly basis.
3. Tighten Up Accounts Receivable (Money In)You’ve earned it — get paid faster. A strong A/R system accelerates cash inflow and helps to build your cash reserves.
4. Control Accounts Payable (Money Out) You want money to go out as slow as possible. Strategic A/P management helps you control the outflow of money while holding on to your cash reserves.
5. Build a Forward-Looking Budget Cash flow isn’t just about today — it’s about 90–120 days ahead. Real planning replaces reaction with precision.
What’s Next – Clarity creates confidence. Cash flow creates freedom.
Elevate your skillset by learning how to build a cash flow forecast. A cash flow forecasting tool has always been more about just budgeting. It’s about financial empowerment.
Click to see a short video on why cash flow forecasting will help maximize profitability and optimize cash flow: Cash Flow Consulting Video
Still Available: SWOT Analysis + 8-Month Forecasting Package
This offer is one of my impactful educational packages.
SWOT Analysis Package
- A custom 8-month cash flow forecast tailored to your current financials
- Clear guidance on minimum cash-on-hand targets to keep your business stable
- A one-time strategic analysis to assess where you are now — and identify quick wins
- A 1:1 consultation where I walk you through your forecast and help you model what’s likely ahead
by Debra Robinson | Jun 19, 2025 | Blog
Establishing healthy cash flow is crucial to all businesses. To just be making a profit month over month may not be enough to execute proactive strategies.
These past few years coming out of the Pandemic have been like none I’ve seen before. Most of my clients received “free” money with the PPP loans. Took on low interest debt with the EIDL loans that brought in unprecedented amounts of cash than most business owners have seen than in previous years by just being profitable. And yet, many are still struggling with cash flow and low bank balances each month.
I had 3 BIG WINS with my clients in 2023. All hired me during 2020 at the beginning of the Pandemic. All these owners were struggling with cash flow and had some if not a lot of debt. It takes a lot of discipline and coaching for an owner to lift their heels to change money habits that were keeping them stuck:
- One business sold in 2023 for top line gross revenues and was acquired by a larger business.
- Another business took an offer at the end of 2023 to be sold and will close in 2024.
- My biggest success story is my young client that worked very diligently and maintained focus and held true to our financial priorities that produced year-over-year growth. From approximately $750K in sales in 2020 to $2.44M in sales in 2023! Not only is that a stunning metric. But the business ended with a huge net profit; cash reserves north of $350K (125% increase from the year before), and no business or credit card debt or business loans.
Now is the time to understand cash flow, change some of those money habits, and educate yourself on how to understand your financials from a CEO’s perspective, different than your CPA’s. Here are my top 5 money habits to work on in 2024.
- Being complacent with the financials. I strongly encourage you to take “ownership” of your financials by educating yourself on how to read your Profit and Loss, Balance Sheet, Accounts Receivable Report and Accounts Payable Report monthly. Does your bookkeeper print out these monthly reports and review them with you?
- Relying only on your CPA. A CPA is focused on taxes, not maximizing net profits, and optimizing cash flow. This takes proactive strategies monthly; not on a yearly basis to build up cash reserves and maximize profitability. Will you be surprised with how much taxes you may owe in April?
- Trying to do it yourself. Many business owners try and tackle their financial situation alone with the notion that they’re saving money. Are you an expert in cash flow projections? Do you have the discipline to ensure your financials are always current? Do you know how to do a monthly budget in a proactive cash flow forecasting arena?
- Management of Expenses: Just because you want it, doesn’t mean you should buy it! Are you spending more money than is coming in each month? Are you using your business bank account as a personal spending account? Do you have the discipline and know how to manage a monthly budget?
- Debt Servicing: If you are servicing credit card debt, car loans, business loans, I strongly encourage you to take a breath and stop the bleeding! Can you identify and create a strategy for what expenses should be reduced to eliminate credit card debt?
2024 Financial Resolution? Some people say it takes 21 to 45 days to break a habit. I would like to suggest that you consider adding a subject matter expert to help bring the discipline, strategies, conversations, and education to help you transform your financial arena. Don’t take things for granted.
My cash flow modeling and consulting will accomplish:
- Taking control of your financials.
- You will learn the importance of reading a Balance Sheet along with your Profit and Loss.
- Creating a monthly budget that will be tied to cash flow projections 8 months into the future.
- You will learn what your monthly outflow of cash is against your monthly inflow of cash revenues showing you a positive or negative action against your cash reserves.
- Creating an accounts receivable process will bring in more money faster and build up cash reserves.
- Creating an accounts payable process that includes debt servicing that will keep more money in your bank account; helping to build up cash reserves.
Centennial Revenue Management remains dedicated to providing you with valuable insights, tips, and strategies to empower your financial arena.
See how far an expert can take you!
Schedule your complimentary consultation today by calling (303) 901-4823
by Debra Robinson | Apr 14, 2025 | Blog, Dirty Little Secrets about Cash Flow
How are you looking at your finances? In the early days of your business, you likely followed simple, smart financial habits. But as your business grew, those fundamentals may have been left behind. I’m helping my clients return to the 1, 2, 3’s of cash flow—the basics that keep businesses thriving, not just surviving.
Why the CEO Perspective Matters
A CPA focuses on taxes and compliance, but a CEO thinks bigger. Cash flow isn’t about the next 30 or 60 days—that money is already in motion. To control your future, you need to look 90 days ahead and build cash reserves and sustainable growth.
Shift your mindset from reactive to proactive, and take control of your money—and your company’s future.
Quick Cash Flow Check:
✅ Is your bookkeeper keeping your financials current? ✅ Do you have an accounts receivable process? ✅ Do you have an accounts payable process? ✅ Do you have a debt servicing strategy?
Pro Tips for Strong Cash Flow:
- Get involved. Know your numbers.
- Build a team of experts. Make informed decisions.
- Slow down outflow. Control outgoing cash to protect your future.
Financial Habits for Long-Term Success:
- Follow the Money: With your team of Subject Matter Experts
- Break Bad Money Habits. Small changes create big results.
- Learn how to do cash flow forecasting: Invest in financial health
Get Back to Basics and Reclaim Control
Refocus on the fundamentals to maximize profits, optimize cash flow, and put more money where it belongs—in your pocket.
Webinar Recap: Cash Flow Secrets Every Unskilled CPA Should Know
Did you miss Debra Robinson’s webinar? Don’t worry, it’s time to uncover the dirty little secrets that could change everything!
👉 Click to Watch Now – On Demand
NEXT STEPS: Try a SWOT package, with an 8-month cash flow forecast, tailored to your business. Get expert guidance on the minimum cash balance you need and a one-time analysis to help you make smart short-term decisions. Plus, enjoy a one-on-one consultation to review your forecast and plan for the future.
by Debra Robinson | Feb 6, 2025 | Cash Flow Confidence, Dirty Little Secrets about Cash Flow
Capture Your Vision and Run Towards Financial Success In Your Business
Now is the perfect time to take a closer look at how your business is managing its finances. Whether you’re looking to improve cash flow, plan for growth, or simply reduce stress around tax season.
1. Confident Decision-Making
Keeping Your Bookkeeper Accountable. When you have a complete financial picture, you’re not guessing at your next move—you’re making informed, confident decisions, with the accurate numbers.
2. More Control Over Cash Flow
Follow the Money. A 360° overview lets you track every dollar coming in and going out, so you can prevent surprises and keep operations running smoothly. It also helps identify trends, giving you the ability to plan ahead and avoid cash flow gaps.
3. Take Action with a SWOT Package
Take a moment to pause and consider what might be possible if you stop reacting and begin creating proactive strategies to sustain a business model that will be there 90 to 120 days from now.
4. Take Control of Your Expenses
Bad Money Habits You Need to Break . A thorough financial review reveals opportunities for cost-saving that you may not even know exist. Having full visibility into your finances makes it easier to control expenses and improve your bottom line.
5. Stress-Free Tax Season
Understand How Corporate Taxes Affect Your Personal Return. One of the biggest headaches for small business owners is tax season, but it doesn’t have to be. With a comprehensive financial overview, you can approach tax time with confidence—and maybe even discover some unexpected tax savings.
As extra set of eyes, Centennial Revenue Management can guide you forward by being proactive, not reactive. If you’re thinking about expanding, hiring, or investing in new opportunities, a 360° financial overview is essential.
Why It Matters for You
As a business owner, you deserve to feel confident and in control when it comes to your financial future. A 360° financial overview allows you to plan more effectively, make better decisions, and—most importantly—ensure your business is on the path to long-term success.
If you’re ready to dive deeper into your finances and unlock the full potential of your business, I’d love to help. Let’s chat about how Centennial Revenue Management can give you the insights and clarity you need to move forward with confidence in 2025.
Schedule your complimentary consultation today by calling (303) 901- 4823
by Debra Robinson | Dec 22, 2024 | Blog, Blog, Cash Flow Confidence, Outsourced CFO, Payroll, Taxes, Trusted Adsvisors
As we bid farewell to this year and welcome a new one, I want to take a moment to wish you all the very best: happiness in your heart, joy this season, and peace in our world. Happy Holidays!
As we look ahead to 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our financial goals and dreams. What do you want to achieve in the year ahead? Whether you’re a business owner or an individual working toward personal financial growth, this season is a great opportunity to celebrate your progress, renew your commitment to your goals, and stay thankful for the possibilities that lie ahead.
The best gift you can give your business this season—and in the year to come—is a strategy for success. And a key part of that strategy is healthy cash flow, the gift that keeps on giving.
A Healthy Cash Flow: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
One of the best ways to achieve financial freedom is by being proactive and creating strategies that support a healthy cash flow and long-term growth. Too often, business owners focus on the day-to-day hustle and neglect the financial systems that keep their business stable and thriving. But I’ve seen firsthand how the right tools and strategies can help entrepreneurs take control of their finances and achieve lasting success.
So, let’s get started on the right foot. Here’s my recipe for the Profit Pie—a formula that’s helped many businesses thrive, even in challenging times. Ready to bake some financial success into your future? Here’s how:
Ingredients for the Profit Pie:
- 2 cups of Accepting Help
The first step toward success is realizing you don’t have to do everything alone. Partner with a professional who can help you craft a solid roadmap for growth. Whether it’s a CFO or a Cash Flow Strategist, the right guidance can make all the difference. - 1 cup of the Right Tools
Whether you’re using a SWOT analysis, a customized CFO package, or even something as simple as a well-organized spreadsheet, the right tools are essential for growth. The key is to be proactive, not reactive. Learn to anticipate financial challenges and opportunities before they happen. - 3/4 tablespoon of Commitment to the Plan
Discipline and consistency are essential to success. Once you’ve crafted your financial plan, stick with it. Set goals, identify strategies, and watch as your commitment pays off in the long run. The rewards are there if you stay the course. - 1/2 teaspoon of Education and Practice
The more you learn about cash flow management, the more confident you’ll become in your financial decisions. Educate yourself on everything from budgeting to forecasting, and practice implementing these strategies in your business. It’ll pay off in spades. - 1 pinch of Faith for Success
Surround yourself with experts, mentors, and people who believe in you and your vision. Trust the process, trust your team, and trust in your ability to create the financial future you’ve always wanted.
The Team Effort of Cash Flow Management
If you’ve been managing your business finances solo, it might be time to consider enlisting some expert help. Cash flow management is a team effort—it’s not something you should be doing on your own. A cash flow consultant or a CFO can help you make informed decisions, navigate financial challenges, and plan for the future with confidence. In 2025, let’s focus on working on your business, alongside a strong support team of financial experts, so you can confidently scale your operations.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
As the year comes to a close, I’m deeply grateful for the trust my clients have placed in me. It’s been an honor to help so many dedicated, hardworking business owners navigate their financial journeys, and I’m thankful to have had the opportunity to educate, guide, and serve in ways that truly make a difference.
If you’re ready to take your cash flow strategy to the next level in 2025, I’d love to work with you. Whether you need help collaborating with your CPA or simply want guidance on building a financial roadmap for the new year, I’m here to support you. Find confidence and comfort in the financial health of your business this holiday season and beyond.
Schedule your complimentary consultation today by calling (303) 901-4823. Together, we’ll make 2025 your most financially successful year yet!
Wishing you all the joy, peace, and prosperity the holiday season can bring. Let’s set the stage for an amazing 2025!
#HolidayCashFlow #BusinessStrategy #FinancialSuccess #HealthyCashFlow #ProfitPie #FinancialPlanning #CFO #BusinessGrowth
by Debra Robinson | Oct 22, 2024 | Blog, Cash Flow Confidence
Navigating cash flow shouldn’t feel like a haunted house! As we approach the end of the year, it’s crucial to uncover any ghosts and goblins that might be lurking in your finances, sabotaging your net profits and cash flow.
The Top Financial Concerns Going Into the End of 2024
Cash flow remains a top challenge with higher inflation and increasing business expenses.
- Are you overspending?
- Are you collecting your accounts receivable in a timely manner?
- Are you juggling vendor bills just to make payroll?
Many small business owners find it hard to pay themselves regularly.
- Are you showing a profit on your Income Statement but struggling to find cash for your own paycheck?
Servicing debt continues to be a struggle as well.
- Are you accumulating more credit card debt without addressing your existing loans beyond just the interest owed?
Tax season is creeping up—do you have strategies in place to offset NET PROFITS to help get more money in your pockets?
- Have you met with your CPA, or do you plan to in the 4th quarter to create proactive strategies?
- Have you considered investing more into your employee base to offset profits that you may pay in taxes instead?
Payroll costs are higher than ever, yet productivity isn’t keeping pace.
- Do you know your payroll percentage relative to cash revenues? Is it in line with industry standards, or are you overstaffed?
- Or are you not generating enough CASH revenue to this expense item on your Profit and Loss?
If you’re feeling uncertain, click below to explore our financial resources that will help banish those scary money woes!
Don’t Be Cursed – Take Control!
Financial wisdom is your ultimate ghost-busting tool! Gain clarity on your cash flow for the next 8 months—schedule your consultation today!
Don’t let your numbers trick you! Understanding cash flow shouldn’t be scary. As the year comes to a close, it’s vital to pinpoint any ghosts that might be haunting your profits.
Conduct a SWOT analysis to reveal hidden financial fears.
As a cash flow strategist, I’ll dive into your finances, create a working forecast model, and share insights during a 2-hour consultation. If you need help collaborating with your CPA, I’m here for you.
Find confidence and comfort in the financial health of your business. Start today with our offer of a cash flow package to help educate you on the movement of money in your business. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by calling (303) 835-7992.
by Debra Robinson | Sep 12, 2024 | In The News
2024 Marks The 25th Year of the Denver Light The Night walk! In 1999, my sister Patti chaired Denver’s first ever Light The Night walk raising just over $57,000. Fast forward to 2023…The Rocky Mountain chapter raised 1.3 Million!
CLICK TO DONATE TODAY
As a team, we are still fighting for the LLS mission. We are remembering those who have passed from this disease, and supporting and honoring those who are fighting or have beat cancer. I walk in memory of my dear sister, Patti. Please consider joining us on Thursday September 26th in Wash Park! We will continue to bring light to the darkness of those fighting cancer.
Why I champion to find a cure: My younger sister, Patti, lost her battle 16 years ago. She was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 1997. She survived for 10 years after having a lot of chemo and a stem cell transplant. Patti worked tirelessly to raise money and reach out on a personal level to connect with newly diagnosed patients. Patti chaired the VERY first Denver Light the Night Walk with my father Eddie Robinson and spearheaded the event for nine consecutive years until her passing in 2008. Here we are, over 25 years later, and this walk attracts over 3500 walkers each year and raises $1.3 Million dollars towards finding a cure so that one day, nobody will get a diagnosis of this deadly disease. Please help me honor all the families that are affected by a blood cancer by supporting this cause!
Please join my team by coming out to walk or making a donation. A donation of $50, $100, $250 to whatever feels good to you will make a large impact on the three pillars of the LLS Mission: Research, Advocacy and Support! Simply click on the “Donate Now” button to the right.
If you want to signup to participate in the walk, and/or to do some of your own fundraising, please visit my page to donate or register to join in the walk!
DONATE TODAY: https://pages.lls.org/ltn/rm/DenverL24/drobinson
by Debra Robinson | Sep 12, 2024 | In The News
Denver Business Journal CFO Awards
Date: September 12, 2024
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Denver, Colorado – Private Event
The Denver Business Journal is thrilled to host the annual CFO Awards, a prestigious event that celebrates the exceptional financial leaders driving success across Denver’s diverse business landscape. This year’s ceremony will honor the city’s top Chief Financial Officers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and innovation in their roles.
Featured Nominee: We are proud to announce that Debra Robison has been nominated for the Small Company CFO category. This recognition highlights her outstanding contributions and leadership at the helm of financial management in a small business with a 2023 revenue ranging from $5 million to $10 million.
Award Categories:
- Micro Company CFO: For companies with 2023 revenue up to $5 million.
- Small Company CFO: For companies with 2023 revenue from $5 million to $10 million.
- Medium Company CFO: For companies with 2023 revenue from $10 million to $50 million.
- Large Company CFO: For companies with 2023 revenue from $50 million to $100 million.
- Extra Large Company CFO: For companies with 2023 revenue above $100 million.
- Public Company CFO: For CFOs of publicly traded companies.
- Nonprofit CFO: For CFOs leading nonprofit organizations.
- Startup CFO: For CFOs of startups, typically under 5 years old and still raising capital.
We look forward to sharing any news of evening of celebration and recognition as we honor the incredible achievements of Denver’s best CFOs!
by Debra Robinson | Sep 12, 2024 | Blog, Blog, Cash Flow, Cash Flow Confidence
Think of it as building your “financial sandbox”—a diverse group of experts who can provide comprehensive support and insight. Here’s a breakdown of who should be in your sandbox:
1. Bookkeeper
- Role: Manages daily transactions and ensures accurate financial records.
- Importance: Foundation of all financial data. Regular reconciliations are essential for precise financial reporting.
2. CPA
- Role: Handles tax compliance and financial oversight.
- Importance: Keeps you aligned with IRS regulations and helps with strategic tax planning.
3. Payroll Specialist
- Role: Manages payroll processing and tax compliance.
- Importance: Ensures accurate and timely payroll, reducing risk of tax issues.
4. Financial Advisor
- Role: Assists with personal wealth management and retirement planning.
- Importance: Provides guidance on growing and protecting your personal wealth.
5. Banker
- Role: Advises on loans, credit lines, and debt restructuring.
- Importance: Helps secure necessary funding and manage financial relationships.
6. Cash Flow Consultant/CFO (Like Myself)
- Role: Offers strategic insights into future cash flow management.
- Importance: Provides a proactive view to optimize cash flow and plan for future financial needs. If you want to know where you stand try a SWOT analysis.
The Power of a Well-Rounded Team Having these experts in your financial sandbox ensures a balanced approach to managing and growing your business. Each brings specialized knowledge that contributes to a comprehensive financial strategy.
Ready to build your financial sandbox?
Start by assembling these experts and watch your financial stability and growth take shape. Be PROACTIVE, not reactive with your financial strategies. Now is the time to collaborate with a CFO/Cash Flow Consultant to help you take charge of your cash flow! By integrating these key players into your financial team and leveraging tools like the SWOT Analysis Package – strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.
by Debra Robinson | Jun 24, 2024 | Blog, Dirty Little Secrets about Cash Flow, Follow the Money
Let me shed light on an unsung hero whose significance cannot be overstated – your bookkeeper, the keeper of your cash flow and the linchpin of your day-to-day financial operations.
I invite you to watch my video, The Role of Your Bookkeeper, where I delve into the vital importance of a bookkeeper and how they should manage your day-to-day financials.
In a recent encounter with a multi-million-dollar client, we uncovered a series of financial missteps that had led them astray.
Here’s a snapshot of the challenges they faced:
- Bookkeeping Oversight:
- The bookkeeper/controller neglected monthly bank reconciliations, resorting instead to monthly journal entries, contrary to our disciplined bookkeeping practices.
- CPA Oversight:
- The CPA overlooked fundamental checks and balances, leading to significant tax liabilities. Were they profitable with bad bookkeeping? Shouldn’t the CPA have intervened to create proactive tax strategies? The CPA did NOT vet the financials; they just took what was provided by the bookkeeper.
- Lack of Financial Literacy:
- The business owners lacked the knowledge to interpret financial statements, blindly trusting these financial “experts.”
In the face of perplexity, let your bookkeeper be your guide to clarity and financial empowerment. Together, let’s navigate the intricate landscape of financial management and pave the way for sustainable growth and success.
The SOLUTIONS we will provide:
- Comprehensive Financial Correction:
- We will meticulously correct their financials for the last few years by “following the money”, and implementing good bookkeeping processes.
- Collaborative CPA Review:
- We will collaborate with a CPA to assess the need for amended tax returns, rectifying errors, and minimizing tax liabilities.
- Financial Literacy Education:
- We are committed to educating the owners and their team on financial literacy, empowering them to make informed decisions.
- Strategic Planning:
- With a solid foundation in place, we will implement cash flow forecasting and develop proactive strategies to facilitate a turnaround.
To delve deeper into the nuances of good bookkeeping practices, I encourage you to read my blog post on “Keeping Your Bookkeeper Accountable” here.
