

Strategy Meets Finance
Steve Coughran
Welcome to Strategy Meets Finance, the podcast for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to start, grow, and run a business that lasts.Most business owners struggle because they treat strategy and finance as separate. But without a clear strategy, your finances won’t support long-term growth. And without strong financial planning, even the best business ideas fall flat.On this show, we bring both sides together—so you can grow your business with confidence, improve cash flow, increase profit, and make better decisions.Hosted by Steve Coughran, a former CFO and founder of Coltivar, each episode shares simple tools, real examples, and practical advice from working with companies of all different sizes. You’ll learn how to set smart goals, fix money leaks, build stronger teams, and create lasting value.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 26, 2024 • 10min
3 Things to Measure in Any Business | Ep 107
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Steve Coughran delves into the "3 Things to Measure in Any Business," simplifying the complex world of finance for leaders inundated with metrics, KPIs, and detailed reports. This clutter of data can often cloud judgment, steering focus away from the true drivers of financial success. Steve champions the power of simplicity, arguing that the essence of financial clarity can be distilled into three pivotal measures: sales, margin, and profit. Each of these metrics forms the cornerstone of effective financial management, providing clear insight into the health and direction of a business. "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication," Leonardo da Vinci once said, a principle that resonates deeply in today's financial discourse. Starting with sales, Steve highlights its role as the primary indicator of demand for your products and services, reflecting the strength of your brand and the quality of the customer experience. Next, he moves to margin, focusing on gross profit to evaluate pricing strategies and cost efficiencies, essential for ensuring a business's financial viability. Lastly, profit, specifically operating profit, is discussed as the definitive measure of a business's core operational success, offering insights into operational efficiency and the need for strategic adjustments in spending or structure. By prioritizing these fundamental metrics—sales, margin, and profit—Steve Coughran encourages leaders to embrace a simpler, more focused approach to financial analysis. This method not only demystifies complex financial concepts but also guides informed decision-making and strategic planning. As we navigate the ever-changing landscapes of business, Steve reminds us of the enduring value of simplicity in achieving financial clarity, strategic direction, and sustained profitability._______________________________________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

Mar 18, 2024 • 18min
Navigating Beyond the Numbers with Soufyan Hamid | Ep 106
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Steve Coughran sits down with Soufyan Hamid, Founder of the Finance Circle, to delve into "Navigating Beyond the Numbers." The conversation kicks off with a discussion on the challenges finance professionals, especially those with an accounting background, face in focusing on the core message without getting bogged down by the minutiae. Soufyan shares insights on what's often missing in finance presentations, emphasizing the importance of structuring them differently from the traditional Profit & Loss format. He introduces the concept of "reversing the narrative" to make financial information more relatable to diverse audiences. The dialogue then shifts to the power of visuals in finance presentations. Soufyan points out that while visuals are a finance professional's greatest asset, they often become a point of contention, with many falling into the trap of creating overly complex, 60-slide decks that lose the audience's attention. He offers practical advice on streamlining presentations to make them more engaging and impactful. Furthermore, Soufyan provides valuable tips and tricks for public speaking tailored to finance professionals. He covers everything from utilizing body language that captivates the audience to strategies for making topics, typically perceived as dull, fascinating and engaging. This episode is a must-listen for finance professionals looking to elevate their communication skills and connect more effectively with their audiences, regardless of their financial acumen._______________________________________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

Mar 13, 2024 • 15min
Financial and Economic News: March 13, 2024
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthMajor stories developing on the global economic front, including:Government Funding Fiasco Averted… For NowBiden Unveils Bold Budget AgendaWall Street Vexed by Tech ValuationWall Street Bets on BoringGold Glitters Amidst Inflation UncertaintyBoeing Experiencing Heavy TurbulenceBitcoin Bounce Creates Thousands of MillionairesIPO Reveals Reddit RichesGoogle Billionaire Seeks ESG EdgeInflation Sees February Flare-Up FinWeekly has the latest updates on top market topics and other financial news: the US narrowly avoided a government shutdown with a $460 billion funding package, while President Biden unveils a bold $7.3 trillion budget proposal for fiscal year 2025. Wall Street strategists dispel concerns of a tech bubble, even as investors shift towards short-volatility bets. Gold prices remain steady amidst inflation uncertainty, while Boeing faces heavy turbulence with its stock plummeting. Bitcoin's rally creates thousands of new millionaires daily, and Reddit pursues a high-stakes IPO. Meanwhile, Google co-founder Sergey Brin eyes ESG investments, and US core inflation sees a February flare-up, signaling ongoing economic challenges. Tune in for insights into these dynamic economic trends shaping our world.Disclaimer:BYFIQ, LLC is a wholly owned entity of Coltivar Group, LLC. 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.byfiq.com/terms-and-privacy-policy for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Mar 11, 2024 • 21min
Creating or Investing in a Real Estate Fund | Ep 105
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Steve Coughran sits down with DJ Ologo, the Managing Director of Aso Custom Homes LLC, to explore the intricate world of "Creating or Investing in a Real Estate Fund." Together, they delve into the essential aspects potential investors should be aware of before committing their capital to a real estate fund, emphasizing the critical due diligence processes required to identify promising opportunities and mitigate risks. DJ Ologo shares his expert advice and personal experiences, offering valuable tips for individuals aiming to raise their own real estate investment funds. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of real estate investments and enhance their financial acumen in this lucrative sector._______________________________________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

Mar 6, 2024 • 14min
Financial and Economic News: March 6, 2024
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthMajor stories developing on the global economic front, including:Congress’ Patchwork Plan to Avert ShutdownNvidia’s Rise Echoes Tesla Hype TrainBond Bulls Buy the DipInvestors Up Their Macy’s BidNYCB Face Real Estate ReckoningChina Unveils Lofty Economic AmbitionsChina Doesn’t Bite on AppleJetBlue Grounds Spirit Takeover PlansBoeing’s Reputation Takes a NosediveTech Stocks in TurmoilFinWeekly has the latest updates on top market topics and other financial news: Congress recently unveiled a $436 billion package to fund a quarter of US government agencies, aiming to avert shutdowns and resolve ideological disputes. In tech, Nvidia's soaring stock echoes Tesla's past surge, highlighting belief in transformative tech like AI while urging caution. Despite rising yields, bond investors anticipate economic slowdowns, eyeing US Treasury bonds. Meanwhile, Arkhouse Management and Brigade Capital persist in their Macy's bid, offering a 33% premium. At the same time, New York Community Bancorp faces credit downgrades, impacting stocks and investor confidence. In Asia, China sets a 5% growth target amid economic challenges, but transparency concerns linger. Tech giant Apple's iPhone sales plummet in China, signaling market dominance struggles. In aviation, JetBlue Airways abandons Spirit Airlines bid, facing regulatory hurdles. Meanwhile, Boeing faces FAA scrutiny over quality control lapses, emphasizing safety concerns. Finally, Apple and Tesla stocks stumble, raising worries about sector overvaluation and triggering market downturns. Tune in for insights into these dynamic economic trends shaping our world.Disclaimer:BYFIQ, LLC is a wholly owned entity of Coltivar Group, LLC. 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.byfiq.com/terms-and-privacy-policy for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Mar 5, 2024 • 7min
Don’t Let Growth Bankrupt Your Business | Ep 104
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Today, we're delving into a critical topic: "Don’t Let Growth Bankrupt Your Business." It's a cautionary tale we often overlook amidst the allure of expansion. Ignoring or inadequately managing working capital can swiftly lead to financial turmoil, particularly during rapid growth phases. Picture this: as your business scales up, revenue streams increase, but so do operational expenses. Without careful attention to working capital, the gap between cash inflow and outflow widens, potentially crippling your company. Join us as we dissect the intricacies of working capital management and explore strategies to safeguard your business's financial health amidst growth. Stay tuned for invaluable insights on navigating the growth journey without risking bankruptcy._______________________________________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

Feb 28, 2024 • 15min
Financial and Economic News: February 28, 2024
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthMajor stories developing on the global economic front, including:Budget Battle in Congress as Shutdown LoomsUS Dollar is Riding HighNVIDIA Surge Sparks Market ShakeupsApple Ditches EV for AIWood Trades Chips for CodeBuffet Sits on Record ReservesAnt Overruns CitadelTelecom Titan Considers TakeoverXi Scrutiny Spurs China Brain DrainElon’s Tunnel Vision Proves Short-SightedFinWeekly has the latest updates on top market topics and other financial news: In Congress, the looming threat of a shutdown sparks concerns beyond Capitol Hill, while the US dollar rides high amidst global economic uncertainty. NVIDIA's soaring success prompts market shifts, Apple pivots from EV to AI, and Cathie Wood reshuffles her portfolio. Warren Buffett's record reserves contrast with frustration over scarce investment opportunities. Ant Group's bold bid against Citadel signals a power shift in finance, while President Xi's crackdown sparks a brain drain in China's financial sector. Telecom titan Charter eyes a takeover, and Elon Musk's Boring Company faces criticism over its Vegas Loop project. Tune in for insights into these dynamic economic trends shaping our world.Disclaimer:BYFIQ, LLC is a wholly owned entity of Coltivar Group, LLC. 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.byfiq.com/terms-and-privacy-policy for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Feb 26, 2024 • 9min
3 Financial Terms that Will Make You Sound Smarter in Business | Ep 103
Delve into key financial terms like profit margins, capital expenditures, and free cash flow to enhance business acumen. Learn how mastering these terms can elevate financial intelligence and boost confidence in financial conversations.

Feb 23, 2024 • 7min
Tired of Living Check to Check? Listen to This... | Ep 102
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Today, we're diving into a critical issue affecting millions: living paycheck to paycheck. With over 60% of Americans caught in this cycle, it's clear that relying solely on wages makes it incredibly challenging to get ahead financially. However, there's hope. We'll explore the upside of equity participation in business and how it offers a path to building lasting wealth at a much faster pace than traditional methods. By investing in businesses, individuals can tap into the power of ownership and entrepreneurship to create multiple streams of income and secure their financial future. But it's not just about investing money; it's also about investing in yourself. I encourage you to prioritize improving your financial acumen and skills. By expanding your knowledge and expertise, you'll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of the financial world and unlock opportunities for wealth creation. So, if you're tired of living check to check, tune in and learn how to take control of your financial destiny._______________________________________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

Feb 21, 2024 • 11min
Financial and Economic News: February 21, 2024
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthMajor stories developing on the global economic front, including:Capital One Discovers Golden OpportunityTo Hike or To Hold?Home Depot’s Slumping SalesChina’s Rate Cut GambleJapan’s Economic ReckoningUK Recession Puts Sunak Under ScrutinyBarclays Banks on Bold TransformationProductivity Boom Powers Economic EfficiencyFinWeekly has the latest updates on top market topics and other financial news: Capital One's bold move to acquire Discover for $35 billion signals a seismic shift in the credit-card market, while investors speculate on potential Federal Reserve interest-rate hikes. Home Depot's slumping sales underscore broader challenges in the housing market, contrasting with China's ambitious rate cut to stimulate its property sector. Japan grapples with a technical recession, prompting discussions on effective policy measures, while the UK's mild recession tests economic promises and puts pressure on the Bank of England. Amidst this backdrop, Barclays unveils a transformative plan to boost returns and confidence in the UK's financial sector. Finally, Wall Street economists predict a post-Covid productivity boom driving economic growth and stability, fueled by factors like AI tools and government investments. Tune in for insights into these dynamic economic trends shaping our world.Disclaimer:BYFIQ, LLC is a wholly owned entity of Coltivar Group, LLC. 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.byfiq.com/terms-and-privacy-policy for additional important information.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com