

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

Jul 21, 2025 • 13min
Why Most Entrepreneurs Fail on Shark Tank... And In Real Life | Ep 174
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthShark Tank is entertaining—but it’s also one of the best crash courses in real-world finance. This episode breaks down the biggest money mistakes founders make on the show (and in real life), what investors actually care about, and why revenue is not the same as wealth. If you’re building a business, thinking about buying one, or just want to get smarter with money, this one’s packed with takeaways that could save you from costly mistakes. _______________________________________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

Jul 17, 2025 • 15min
Why I’d Never Want to Be a Partner at an Accounting Firm | Ep 173
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthIn this episode, Steve shares the real reason he left Ernst & Young and why he’d never want to be a partner at an accounting firm. It all started with a conversation that made him question everything, and the lessons he’s learned since might surprise you. If you’re considering the traditional career route or if you’re stuck between the grind and your personal life, this episode is for you. You won’t want to miss this personal story and a perspective shift that could change how you think about 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. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Jul 14, 2025 • 13min
The Truth About Buying Boring Businesses (What the Gurus Aren’t Telling You) | Ep 172
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthSteve pulls back the curtain on the whole "buying boring businesses" trend that’s being pushed by influencers. While the idea of grabbing a laundromat or a small trade business might sound like an easy path to profit, there’s a lot more to the story. Steve explains why the numbers being shared out there are often misleading and what’s really going on behind the scenes when it comes to profits, capital expenditures, and cash flow. By the end, you’ll see why understanding these details is crucial to making smart business decisions—and avoiding costly mistakes. If you're thinking about buying a business, or just curious about what’s really happening in these deals, this episode's for you. _______________________________________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

Jul 9, 2025 • 20min
Starbucks is Quietly Winning - Here’s the $1B Lesson Hidden in Their Financials | Ep 171
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthLevers of Profit Calculator: coltivar.com/levers-of-profit-calculator Ever wondered what makes Starbucks so profitable? In this episode, we take a deep dive into Starbucks' business model and financials. Learn how the company generates billions, what their revenue per store looks like, and how they maintain strong profits. We’ll also compare Starbucks to its competitors like Dunkin' Donuts and Dutch Bros to give you a better understanding of what sets them apart. By the end of this episode, you'll not only know how Starbucks operates but also how the business’s numbers and strategies align. Plus, you'll gain valuable insights on how you can apply these lessons to your own business or investments. Get ready to dive into the real story behind Starbucks’ financial success and how you can think more strategically about your own financials. _______________________________________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

Jul 3, 2025 • 23min
Why 99% of People Stay Broke and How You Can Escape the Trap | Ep 170
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthTry out our free tools and calculators: coltivar.com/tools Most people stay broke because they’re playing the wrong game. The typical formula of getting a job, saving, and hoping for the best simply doesn’t work. In this episode, Steve breaks down why 99% of people remain stuck in the time-for-money trap, how financial illiteracy keeps us from wealth, and why the traditional saving mindset is a myth. Learn the three key levers of wealth and a simple roadmap for how to escape the cycle of working for money and start building wealth that works for you. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how to shift from being a worker to an owner, and start taking actionable steps towards financial freedom. Get ready for a mindset shift, practical steps, and a call to take charge of your financial future today. _______________________________________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 30, 2025 • 30min
How to Buy a Business Even if You’re Broke | Ep 169
Discover how to buy a profitable business without needing a hefty wallet. Learn about innovative strategies like seller financing and SBA loans that make business acquisition accessible. The discussion highlights vital financial metrics to evaluate deals and stresses the importance of cash flow. Avoid common pitfalls that can derail your plans, ensuring a smoother investment journey. With practical tips and valuable resources, you’ll be empowered to take control of your financial future through business ownership.

Jun 23, 2025 • 12min
4 Simple Profit Levers Every Business Owner Needs to Know (+ Free Calculator) | Ep 168
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthLevers of Profit Calculator: coltivar.com/levers-of-profit-calculatorWant to know how to boost your business’s profitability? There are just four key levers that make all the difference: price, volume, cost of goods sold, and operating expenses. Once you understand these, you’ll be equipped to make smarter decisions that drive real results.In this episode, Steve walks you through a free tool he created that calculates how small changes to these four levers can impact your profit. With just two simple inputs—cost of goods sold and operating expenses—you’ll instantly see how adjusting each lever can improve your bottom line.Whether you're leading a team or sitting in a meeting, this tool gives you the confidence to make decisions based on real data._______________________________________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 16, 2025 • 26min
If I Had to Learn Finance All Over Again, Here’s What I’d Do | Ep 167
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthWhy do so many businesses struggle with cash flow—and how can you avoid the same fate? In this episode, Steve reveals one of the biggest hurdles he sees business leaders face: a lack of financial literacy. But it’s not about complex accounting—it’s about understanding the story behind the numbers so you can take action.Steve shares his journey of learning the basics of finance and why getting these fundamentals right could be a game-changer for your business. From income statements to balance sheets, he breaks down the essentials that all business owners need to know. Tune in to learn how understanding your numbers can help you make smarter decisions and set your business up 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. LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com

Jun 10, 2025 • 12min
Why I’m Back—and What I Hope It Means for You | Ep 166
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthSteve is back! After taking a break to focus on his business, Coltivar, he's returning to the Boosting Your Financial IQ podcast with fresh insights and a new tool to help you level up your financial game.In this episode, Steve shares why financial literacy is key for business owners and how understanding your numbers can make a huge impact. He also introduces a free tool to help you find the best profit levers for your business and explains how small changes can lead to big results.Whether you're new to finance or looking to sharpen your skills, this episode will give you the real-world tips and tools you need to boost your financial IQ and grow your business.Get ready for more episodes to help you dominate your financial future!_______________________________________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

Apr 14, 2025 • 12min
What Is a Good Profit Margin for a Small Business? | Ep 165
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth What is a good profit margin for a small business? Steve unpacks the truth behind profit margins—what they really mean, why they vary across industries, and how to know if your business is healthy.With practical examples, real stories, and actionable strategies, Steve helps you move beyond just chasing revenue to building a business that consistently creates profit by design. _______________________________________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