

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 17, 2025 • 13min
3 Must Have Metrics for Business Owners | Ep 159
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Running a business is like spinning plates—but how do you know if it's truly efficient?In this episode, Steve reveals three key metrics every business must measure to drive growth and 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 10, 2025 • 14min
Cash Flow for Business Owners: How to Forecast, Manage, and Get More of It | Ep 158
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Where’s your cash going? Even thriving businesses can feel stuck when money flows in and out without clarity.In this episode, Steve Coughran reveals why cash flow confusion isn’t your fault — and how to fix it. Learn the key steps to forecasting, managing, and boosting your cash flow so you can stay in control and grow with confidence._______________________________________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 3, 2025 • 7min
Let's Play Cash Flow Trivia | Ep 157
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Think you understand cash flow? Steve puts your financial knowledge to the test in this interactive trivia-style episode.From the difference between profit and cash flow to why profitable companies still go bankrupt, this episode breaks down key financial concepts that every entrepreneur and business owner needs to know. Whether you're a finance pro or just getting started, this one will challenge what you think you know.Are you ready? Let’s play._______________________________________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 26, 2025 • 9min
If You’re Looking for a Job, Listen to This | Ep 156
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Steve has hired countless employees, and the hiring process never fails to shock him. From no-shows to unpolished resumes, he’s seen it all.In this episode, he shares the brutal truths job seekers need to hear—why some candidates never get a second look, the simple mistakes that ruin your chances, and the key habits that make you stand out.If you’re looking for a job (or ever will), this is the episode you can’t afford to miss._______________________________________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 24, 2025 • 9min
The One Truth I'll Never Stop Sharing About Finance | Ep 155
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Most professionals know financial literacy is crucial, yet few follow through.In this episode, Steve Coughran uncovers why so many start strong but fail to finish—and what it takes to break the cycle. Through real-world insights and hard-hitting truths, Steve shares why there are no shortcuts to financial success, how distractions derail progress, and what separates those who thrive from those who stay stuck.If you’re ready to take control of your financial future, this episode will challenge you to commit, build real skills, and unlock new opportunities._______________________________________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 17, 2025 • 12min
3 Things I Learned as CFO of a Billion Dollar Company | Ep 154
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth What does it really take to lead the financial strategy of a billion-dollar company?Steve Coughran reveals the three biggest lessons he learned as CFO—insights that every business leader needs to know. From simplifying financials to uncovering hidden risks on the balance sheet, these takeaways can help you drive massive value.But the most important lesson? It’s not what you think. Tune in now to find out._______________________________________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 10, 2025 • 7min
Don't Let Numbers Be an Excuse for Inaction | Ep 153
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Too many leaders hide behind financial data, delaying action until every number is perfectly in place. But in reality, execution drives results—not spreadsheets.In this episode, Steve challenges the mindset that waiting for the “right” data is necessary and explains why intuition, strategy, and decisive action matter more.If you want to grow and scale, stop using numbers as a crutch and start making moves._______________________________________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 3, 2025 • 6min
If You Want to Be a Profitable Entrepreneur, Listen to This | Ep 152
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth Got a brilliant business idea? Great! But can you explain your unit economics, break-even point, or burn rate? Most people can’t—and that’s why they fail. In this episode, discover why financial literacy is the ultimate game-changer for turning ideas into profitable realities. From decoding lifetime gross profit to mastering the four levers of profitability, Steve reveals the essential numbers every entrepreneur and business leader must know.Don’t miss out on the free tools and insights that can transform your career and business. Tune in now to elevate your financial game!_______________________________________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

8 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 7min
Can You Fake It Till You Make It in Finance? | Ep 151
Jump into the challenges of stepping into leadership roles where financial fluency is key. Discover why relying on 'faking it' in finance can backfire. Gain insights on mastering financial statements and the four levers of profit. Explore free resources designed to boost your financial literacy with over a hundred video lessons. This discussion highlights the essential connection between finance and strategic decision-making to drive business success.

Jan 22, 2025 • 2min
BYFIQ Hits One Million Downloads!
Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growthMaster business finance for free with 100+ video lessons—no gimmicks, no hooks, just valuable knowledge: https://www.byfiq.com/What began as a simple idea to teach financial literacy has grown beyond my wildest dreams—all thanks to you. Your support, shares, and feedback make this journey possible, and I’m truly honored to have you along for the ride.Thank you for being part of this mission. Here’s to empowering even more leaders together! Cheers!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


