108: The Hidden Value Killers in Your Business Model

The Margin Method

#Entrepreneur #Business #Steve Coughran #Strategy #Entrepreneurship #Financial Management #Business Strategy #MBA #Startup

6:24

Grumpy helps a reader choose the best hydrangea for their hometown. Plus, Grumpy’s gripe of the week. You can find us online at southernliving.com/askgrumpy Ask Grumpy Credits: Steve Bender aka The Grumpy Gardener - Host Nellah McGough - Co-Host Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Isaac Nunn - Recording Tech Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

19 days ago 12:49

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

More growth doesn’t always mean more profit. In this episode of The Margin Method Steve Coughran 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.

Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost

Support the show

111 episodes

The Margin Method

108: The Hidden Value Killers in Your Business Model

The Margin Method

published 19 days ago

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

More growth doesn’t always mean more profit. In this episode of The Margin Method Steve Coughran uncovers the silent value killers hiding inside your business model and how to fix them.

Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost

Support the show

111 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #Steve Coughran #Strategy #Entrepreneurship #Financial Management #Business Strategy #MBA #Startup

All episodes

The Margin Method

1
110: What Buyers Look for in a $10M Business 10:52

8 days ago10:52

10:52

Send us a text If someone showed up today, ready to buy your business, would you be proud of what they’d find? In this episode of The Margin Method , Steve shares what really separates a company that commands top dollar from one that quietly gets passed over. Whether you plan to sell or not, this one will shift how you think about building lasting 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
109: What Paris Taught Me About Margin 13:22

15 days ago13:22

13:22

Send us a text Most businesses don’t fail because they lack hustle, they fail because they lack margin. In this heartfelt episode of The Margin Method , 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
108: The Hidden Value Killers in Your Business Model 12:49

19 days ago12:49

12:49

Send us a text More growth doesn’t always mean more profit. In this episode of The Margin Method Steve Coughran 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
107: Is Your Business Actually Sellable? 14:11

22 days ago14:11

14:11

Send us a text What makes a business truly sellable and why should it matter even if you never plan to sell? In this powerful episode of The Margin Method 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
106:The 5 Metrics Every Founder Must Know Cold 18:32

26 days ago18:32

18:32

Send us a text Most founders track revenue but what about the metrics that really matter? In this episode of The Margin Method 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
105: Scale with Systems, Not Just Headcount 13:22

29 days ago13:22

13:22

Send us a text Think you’re scaling? You might just be multiplying chaos. In this episode of The Margin Method 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
104: You’re Making Money- So Why Is There No Cash? 17:14

5 weeks ago17:14

17:14

Send us a text Your income statement says you're winning so why does it feel like you're broke? In this episode of The Margin Method 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
103: The Biggest Lie About Scaling a Business 13:43

5 weeks ago13:43

13:43

Send us a text Feeling overwhelmed by growth? In this kickoff episode of The Margin Method Steve challenges the biggest myth in business: that more revenue means more success. Through real stories and hard-won lessons, he breaks down why most companies stall when scaling—and the three foundations that separate busy businesses from valuable ones: systems, financial discipline, and focused strategy. If you're serious about building a company that runs without you (or one worth selling), this episode is your blueprint. 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
102: Strategy Trivia You Must Know 14:41

11 weeks ago14:41

14:41

Send us a text 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
101: A Resource to Help You with Strategy and Cash Flow 8:15

12 weeks ago8:15

8:15

Send us a text 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
100: When It Comes to Strategy, Make Sure You Have These 5 Things 9:40

13 weeks ago9:40

9:40

Send us a text 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
99: How Do You Know If Your Strategy Is Working? 9:17

14 weeks ago9:17

9:17

Send us a text Most businesses focus on growth, culture, and innovation—but what if you're missing the one thing that truly keeps a company alive? In this episode, Steve reveals the brutal truth about why so many businesses fail, the hidden trap leaders fall into, and how to tell for sure if your strategy is actually working. If you're waiting on the numbers before making a move, you might already be behind. Don't miss this eye-opening episode—your business depends on it. 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
98: What Is ROIC and Its Impact on Your Strategy? 16:40

15 weeks ago16:40

16:40

Send us a text Are you building a business that truly creates value, or just chasing growth? In this episode, Steve breaks down the powerful connection between strategy and finance—and why Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) is the key to long-term success. Discover why profitability alone isn’t enough, how 70% of bankrupt companies were still making a profit, and the crucial financial levers that separate thriving businesses from those stuck in survival mode. If you’re serious about scaling with precision and maximizing value, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss. Tune in now! 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
97: How AI Will Impact Your Strategy and Competitive Advantage 9:10

16 weeks ago9:10

9:10

Send us a text AI is reshaping the business landscape—are you ready for it? In this episode, discover how AI is equalizing competition, creating distractions, and accelerating the pace of business. Steve reveals the hidden pitfalls and opportunities of AI, sharing insights on how leaders can stay focused, act with precision, and develop winning strategies in this fast-changing environment. Learn how to leverage AI as a tool for value creation—or risk falling behind. Don’t miss out on the keys to staying competitive in the AI era. 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. Want to see if you’re a fit for our KPI Kickoff? Check it out here: https://www.coltivar.com/boost Support the show…

The Margin Method

1
96: Why Your Business Isn’t as Profitable as It Could Be 19:27

17 weeks ago19:27