

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

Jun 28, 2023 • 28min
09: The Old and New Way of Building a Strategy
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth In this episode, Steve Coughran explores the evolution of strategy, from its military origins to its modern business application. He contrasts the old, traditional frameworks with today's focus on agility, innovation, and adaptability. Steve shares key insights into building effective strategies using data-driven decisions, collaboration, and customer-centric approaches. He challenges listeners to rethink their strategy and embrace new ways of strategic planning. Whether you're a leader or entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable inspiration for enhancing your strategic thinking.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. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Jun 21, 2023 • 1h 5min
08: The Island of the Four P's With Ed Hajim
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth In this episode, Steve Coughran interviews author and philanthropist Ed Hajim about his book, The Island of the Four P’s. Ed shares his remarkable life story, from being kidnapped as a child to discovering his mother was alive in his 60s. He also discusses his experience building a golf club and becoming the largest endower at the University of Rochester. Throughout, Ed offers valuable lessons on being prepared for life’s challenges, drawing from his journey as a businessman and philanthropist. Tune in for inspiring insights from Ed’s extraordinary life and book.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. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Jun 14, 2023 • 34min
07: What is a Competitive Advantage
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth In this episode, Steve Coughran will be exploring the concept of competitive advantage in business and how it can give companies an edge over their competitors. Our host expert, a seasoned business strategist with extensive experience in the field, Steve will share insights on identifying and leveraging competitive advantages. We'll define what competitive advantage is and explore the different types of advantages that companies can have, including cost leadership, differentiation, innovation, and agility. We'll also discuss strategies for identifying and building upon a company's existing advantages, as well as ways to stay ahead of competitors through continuous improvement and adaptation to new market trends. Whether you're an entrepreneur, manager, or aspiring business leader, this episode is packed with valuable information that will help you understand and harness the power of competitive advantage in your own organization.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. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Jun 7, 2023 • 56min
06: 5 Avoidable Reasons You Could Fail at Starting a Business with Daniel Villani
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Starting a business is an exciting and risky endeavor. While many entrepreneurs have big dreams, not all succeed. Business leaders can take several steps to avoid failing when starting a business. Firstly, it's essential to conduct thorough research on the market and customers before launching a product or service. This research will help identify gaps in the market and customer needs, which can help inform the business's product development and marketing strategies. Secondly, it's crucial to build a strong team with diverse skill sets and expertise. Thirdly, leaders should develop a detailed business plan that outlines their goals and strategies for achieving them. They should also be prepared to pivot and adjust their plans as necessary. Lastly, it's vital to manage finances carefully, including budgeting, seeking funding, and monitoring cash flow. Join us for this episode where I talk with Daniel Villani, Founder and CEO of Villani Analytics, about these topics and the 5 reasons most business leaders fail when building their companies. 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. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

May 31, 2023 • 53min
05: Taking Calculated Risks to Build a Meaningful Business with Paul Tamburello
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Starting a business involves risk, but calculated risks are key to success. In this episode, we speak with entrepreneur and real estate developer Paul Tamburello about how to take smart risks in building a meaningful business. Paul shares his journey, the challenges he faced, and strategies for managing fear, pivoting when needed, and leveraging a strong support network. We also debunk common myths about risk-taking in business. Whether you're new or experienced, this episode offers valuable insights for taking your business to the next level.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. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

May 24, 2023 • 28min
04: How Strategy Drives Financial Value
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth In this episode, Steve Coughran highlights how aligning strategic goals with financial objectives drives business success. He discusses how a well-crafted strategy informs financial decisions, such as investment choices and resource allocation, while focusing on key metrics like revenue growth and ROI. Whether you're a CFO or business leader, this episode offers practical advice on creating a strategy to achieve financial goals and sustainable growth. Tune in for actionable insights on the role of strategy in driving financial value. 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. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

May 17, 2023 • 17min
03: Building a Strategy Blueprint
Learn how to create a strategy blueprint for your business. Explore key components such as purpose, principles, and strategic problem. Understand the importance of a shared vision and evaluating strategic options. Discover the significance of competitive advantages, strategic statements, KPIs, and successful execution.

May 10, 2023 • 30min
02: Getting Started With Strategy
This episode of the podcast explores the four phases of getting started with business strategy. It discusses the importance of benchmarking financial performance, defining roles and leading meetings, building a supportive and diverse community, and provides a step-by-step guide on implementing a strategy.

May 5, 2023 • 29min
01: What is Strategy?
This podcast episode explores the importance of business strategy and finance for success, debunking common myths. It highlights the significance of having a clear strategy in various business scenarios and emphasizes the need for strategy to reach the front line for successful execution.

May 4, 2023 • 3min
Trailer: Building Margin
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Welcome to Building Margin: Strategies for Contractors Who Want to Think Bigger and Earn More If you're working harder than ever but your bank account doesn’t show it, you're not alone, and you're not broken. Hosted by Steve Coughran, former CFO of billion-dollar construction firms, this podcast shares practical strategies to help you take control of your numbers, increase job profitability, and build a business that works for you. It’s honest, straight-up insight from someone who’s been in your boots. 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. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com