

Building Margin
Steve Coughran
Welcome to Building Margin: Strategies for Business Owners Who Want to Think Bigger and Earn More. If you're a construction or service business owner working harder than ever, but still struggling with cash flow, profit margin, or burnout, this podcast is for you. Hosted by Steve Coughran of Coltivar, Building Margin helps you take back control of your business, stop guessing with your numbers, and start making decisions that actually move the needle. Each episode dives into what really drives success: clear strategy, confident leadership, and a business that doesn’t depend on you for everything. You’ll learn how to grow your business with less stress, improve financial clarity, and create margin—in your time, your team, and your bottom line. Whether you’re trying to scale, step back, or just finally get ahead, this show helps you build something that lasts.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 18, 2023 • 48min
25: The Ins and Outs of Strategic Finance with Keith Downham
In this episode, Steve Coughran is interviewed by Keith Downham, Co-Founder of Coltivar Growth Partners, on "The Ins and Outs of Strategic Finance." They discuss Steve's entrepreneurial journey, the synergy between strategy and finance, and the difference between a strategic CFO and a traditional CFO. This insightful conversation offers valuable lessons on how strategic finance drives long-term business success. Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. www.coltivar.com

Oct 11, 2023 • 50min
24: Be Strategic or Be Gone with Rich Horwath
In this episode, Steve Coughran hosts Rich Horwath, CEO of the Strategic Thinking Institute, to explore the critical role of strategic thinking in today’s volatile business world. They discuss common strategic missteps, the concept of Strategic Fitness, and how strategic leadership drives long-term value and team performance. Tune in for real-life examples and insights on strategy, tactics, and measuring success. Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. www.coltivar.com

Oct 4, 2023 • 45min
23: How Momentum and Speed Make or Break a Startup with Thomas Walle
In the latest episode of the Business Strategy podcast, host Steve Coughran dives deep into the world of startups with a special guest, Thomas Walle, the CEO of Unacast. Together, they explore the critical role that momentum and speed play in the success or failure of a startup. Throughout the conversation, Walle shares valuable insights on how to harness momentum by implementing OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) to align the organization and achieve desired results. They also discuss the comparison between OKRs and Coltivar's proprietary IARs systems (Initiatives, Actions, and Results). Additionally, Coughran and Walle provide expert advice on kickstarting a quarter to gain an advantageous head start and cultivating a culture of urgency within a startup environment. Tune in to this captivating episode to discover the secrets behind making or breaking a startup through strategic momentum and lightning-fast execution.Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. www.coltivar.com

Sep 27, 2023 • 15min
22: Defining Your Strategic Problem
In this episode, hosted by Steve Coughran, listeners are enlightened about the criticality of clearly identifying their strategic problem. Steve emphasizes that understanding and articulating the strategic problem at hand is fundamental to pursuing the right initiatives that will effectively overcome the challenge. By defining the strategic problem, businesses can align their resources, efforts, and strategies towards addressing the core issue. This comprehensive approach enables organizations to build resiliency, adapt to market changes, and maximize firm value in the long run. Steve's insightful discussion underscores the significance of a strategic problem as the foundation for developing impactful solutions and driving success in today's dynamic business landscape.Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. www.coltivar.com

Sep 20, 2023 • 25min
21: Crafting an Ideal Customer Profile
In this episode, hosted by Steve Coughran, listeners are guided through the art of crafting an ideal customer profile. With an emphasis on clear, concise language and a persuasive tone, Coughran dives into the process of identifying customer values, digging deep into their urgent problems, and analyzing macro trends that impact their space. By leveraging statistics, anecdotes, and direct address, he compels listeners to understand the importance of creating an ideal customer profile. Highlighting the significance of triggers and using data-driven insights, Coughran empowers individuals to align their companies with their target customers' needs. Through this strategic approach, businesses can enhance the overall customer experience, foster clarity, and maximize long-term value. Tune in to the Business Strategy podcast to gain valuable insights and actionable steps for crafting an ideal customer profile that drives success in the world of stock investing.Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. www.coltivar.com

Sep 13, 2023 • 54min
20: Aligning Business Strategy and Exit Planning with Dawn Bloomer
In this episode, host Steve Coughran sits down with renowned Business Strategist Dawn Bloomer to delve into the critical topic of aligning business strategy with exit planning. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the significance of making informed decisions when it comes to selecting the right business entity. They also explore strategies for building a business in a way that mitigates keyman risks, ensuring the continuity of success even in the face of unexpected changes. Furthermore, Coughran and Bloomer shed light on the importance of thoughtful exit planning to maximize firm value. By considering various exit strategies, listeners gain valuable insights on how to navigate the business landscape and create long-term value. Tune in to this episode to gain invaluable advice from these seasoned professionals and take your business strategy to new heights.Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. www.coltivar.com

Sep 6, 2023 • 26min
19: Choosing the Right Entity Structure
In this episode of the Business Strategy podcast, Steve Coughran explores the importance of choosing the right entity structure when starting or scaling a business. From sole proprietorships to LLCs and corporations, Steve highlights how aligning your structure with your strategy can protect assets and drive growth. Tune in for essential insights to help you make informed decisions for long-term success. Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. www.coltivar.com

Aug 30, 2023 • 49min
18: From Software to Skis With Ted Eynon
In this episode of the Business Strategy podcast, host Steve Coughran sits down with the Founder of Meier Skis, based in Denver, Colorado, to delve into his remarkable journey from selling Christmas trees to building a thriving business of crafting handmade skis. The conversation touches on the various pivots and transitions along the way, including detecting gas leaks and developing software. Together, they explore the challenges and grind of entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of putting the customer at the center of every decision. They also discuss the delicate balance between strategy and intuition that has been instrumental in the founder's success. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the entrepreneurial journey and discover how passion, adaptability, and a customer-centric approach can pave the way to building a flourishing business.Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. www.coltivar.com

Aug 23, 2023 • 53min
17: The Do's and Don'ts of Expanding Abroad With Dr. Shan Nair
In this episode of the Business Strategy Podcast, host Steve Coughran talks with Dr. Shan Nair, President of Nucleus, about key strategies for expanding businesses abroad. They discuss the importance of hiring culturally competent leaders, leveraging local experts, and evaluating a company's readiness based on financial strength and market demand. Dr. Nair emphasizes how understanding cultural nuances and working with local professionals can boost the chances of success in new markets. Tune in for valuable insights on unlocking profitable growth through international expansion. Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. www.coltivar.com

Aug 16, 2023 • 21min
16: How to Integrate Finance With Your Strategy
In this episode of the Business Strategy podcast, Steve Coughran discusses the importance of integrating finance with strategy. He explains how clear strategic initiatives guide financial decisions, resource allocation, and long-term success. Coughran highlights the need for a financial plan that aligns with business goals, covering revenue, expenses, and cash flow. He also emphasizes regular financial analysis and continuous monitoring to adapt and stay aligned with strategic objectives. This episode offers valuable insights on merging finance and strategy for business growth. Disclaimer:The views expressed here are those of the individual Coltivar Group, LLC (“Coltivar”) personnel quoted and are not the views of Coltivar or its affiliates. Certain information contained in here has been obtained from third-party sources. While taken from sources believed to be reliable, Coltivar has not independently verified such information and makes no representations about the enduring accuracy of the information or its appropriateness for a given situation.This content is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal, business, investment, or tax advice. You should consult your own advisers as to those matters. References to any securities or digital assets are for illustrative purposes only, and do not constitute an investment recommendation or offer to provide investment advisory services. The Company is not registered or licensed by any governing body in any jurisdiction to give investing advice or provide investment recommendations. The Company is not affiliated with, nor does it receive compensation from, any specific security. Please see https://www.coltivar.com/privacy-policy-and-terms-of-use for additional important information. www.coltivar.com