Building Margin

Building Margin

Download on the App Store

Building Margin episodes

  • 109: What Paris Taught Me About Margin

    Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth 

    Most businesses don’t fail because they lack hustle, they fail because they lack margin. In this heartfelt episode, Steve shares a powerful realization sparked by a family trip to Paris. 

    Through personal stories and sharp insights, he unpacks why financial margin alone isn’t enough, and how operational and leadership margin are just as critical to your success. If you’re feeling stretched thin, stuck in the grind, or constantly running but never catching up, this episode is your wake-up call. 


    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

    12 min
  • 108: The Hidden Value Killers in Your Business Model

    Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth 

    More growth doesn’t always mean more profit. Steve uncovers the silent value killers hiding inside your business model and how to fix them. 

    If your revenue is rising but your margins aren't, it's time to take a closer look under the hood. Get ready to rethink profitability and discover the simple shifts that lead to smarter, more scalable 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

    12 min
  • 107: Is Your Business Actually Sellable?

    Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth 

    What makes a business truly sellable and why should it matter even if you never plan to sell? In this epsiode, Steve challenges founders to think differently about value, risk, and how to future-proof their companies. 

    Whether you're years from exiting or never intend to, this conversation will reshape how you build and lead. 


    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

    13 min
  • 106: The 5 Metrics Every Founder Must Know

    Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth 

    Most founders track revenue but what about the metrics that really matter? Steve reveals the five financial indicators every founder must know cold to grow profitably, lead with clarity, and build a sellable business.

    These aren't numbers for your accountant—these are the signals that guide smart strategy, cash flow, and value creation. Whether you're scaling now or planning your exit, this episode gives you the financial blueprint to stop guessing and start building 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

    18 min
  • 105: Scale with Systems, Not Just Headcount

    Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth 

    Think you’re scaling? You might just be multiplying chaos. 

    In this episode, Steve breaks down the dangerous myth that growth means adding more people and reveals why true scale is built through systems, not headcount. 

    With stories, red flags, and a powerful 3-pillar framework, he shows you how to escape the growth spiral and build a business that runs without you. If you're the bottleneck, the firefighter, or the answer to every question this episode is your wake-up call.


    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

    12 min
  • 104: You’re Making Money- So Why Is There No Cash?

    Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth 

    Your income statement says you're winning, so why does it feel like you're broke? Steve unpacks one of the most common (and costly) issues business owners face: the disconnect between profit and cash. 

    Through relatable stories and a simple four-step framework, he explains why profit is just the story and cash is the truth. If you've ever skipped a paycheck to make payroll or felt financially stuck despite growing revenue, this episode is your roadmap to clarity, control, and real cash flow 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

    16 min
  • 103: Why I'm Doubling Down on Construction and What That Means for You

    Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth 

    After 100+ episodes on strategy and finance, Steve is shifting gears—and getting laser-focused. In this special re-release, he shares why he’s doubling down on the construction industry.

    Steve opens up about his background as a CFO in construction, the lessons he’s learned helping companies scale profitably, and why niche focus creates bigger impact. You’ll hear what to expect moving forward (more stories, more specificity, more value), and why this change might be exactly what your business needs—even if you’re not in construction.

    If you're in the trades, this is your cue to lean in. If you're not, there's still plenty to learn about strategy, financial clarity, and the power of choosing a lane.


    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

    6 min
  • 102: Strategy Trivia You Must Know

    Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth 

    Think you know strategy? In this interactive episode, Steve puts your business knowledge to the test with a round of strategy trivia.

    From the key difference between strategy and strategic planning to how to measure if your company’s strategy is actually working, this episode challenges common misconceptions and reveals the essential frameworks top businesses use to win.

    Whether you're a beginner or a strategy master, see how you stack up—because getting this wrong could cost 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

    14 min
  • 101: A Resource to Help You with Strategy and Cash Flow

    Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth 

    Most entrepreneurs chase growth, but what if scaling too fast is the very thing that takes your business down?

    In this episode, Steve unpacks the fundamental flaw that causes even promising companies to fail—and it has nothing to do with bad ideas, weak teams, or lack of vision. It all comes down to one essential financial principle that separates thriving businesses from those that burn out.

    Ignore it, and you risk losing everything.

    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 min
  • 100: When It Comes to Strategy, Make Sure You Have These 5 Things

    Want to grow your business? Download your free roadmap today: coltivar.com/growth 

    Is your business set up for success in 2025, or will you look back wishing you'd done things differently?

    Steve Coughran breaks down the five essential components every company must have in place—from a clear strategy to financial forecasting and KPIs. Without these, you're flying blind. Learn how to set your business up to drive growth, cash flow, and long-term value before it's too late.

    Don't wait—tune in now to get ahead. 

    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

    9 min

About Building Margin

From the publisher's feed

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…

More shows like Building Margin

Strategy Meets Finance by Steve Coughran

Strategy Meets Finance

22 Listeners

Finance With Kids by Steve and Ava Coughran

Finance With Kids

10 Listeners