But First, Principles!

Colin Davis

Welcome to the But First, Principles! Podcast hosted by Colin Davis! But First, Principles with Colin Davis is a podcast for leaders, entrepreneurs, and curious minds who want to dig deeper into how things really work. Each episode explores a timeless principle or mental model that drives exceptional decision-making, leadership clarity, and strategic thinking. With guests from business, tech, academia, and beyond, Colin helps listeners peel back the noise and return to what really matters: the principles that stand the test of time. Connect with Colin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-davis-1stprinciples/ Visit the First Principles Coaching website: http://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com/

  1. 6D AGO

    SE02E18 When Not to Advertise: Smart Marketing for Small Businesses | Adrian Garcia

    Today’s Guest: Adrian Garcia of B & G CollectiveDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-garcia-513639133/ This Episode:In this episode, we sit down with Adrian Garcia, growth marketer and co-founder of B & G Collective, to discuss what it really takes to grow a small business sustainably. Adrian shares his entrepreneurial journey, including starting a business with his wife, the challenges of early decision-making, and why investing in paid advertising too early can stall growth instead of accelerating it. The conversation focuses on practical growth marketing strategies for small and local businesses, especially in industries like construction, where project management, margins, and referrals play a critical role. Topics covered include building a strong local reputation before running ads, the importance of a Google Business Profile, transitioning from technician to business owner, balancing operations with marketing, and learning to manage internal systems as a company grows. Adrian also explains how AI can enhance marketing efforts when aligned with core competencies, why referrals remain one of the most reliable growth channels, and how honesty and performance-driven strategies build long-term client trust. This episode is packed with actionable insights for small business owners, marketers, contractors, and entrepreneurs who want to avoid common mistakes, build a solid foundation, and grow with clarity and purpose. Key TakeawaysBuild a strong local reputation before investing in adsPaid advertising too early can stall growthReferrals are one of the most reliable growth channelsTransitioning from technician to owner is critical for scalingA Google Business Profile is essential for local visibilityBalancing operations and marketing is key to sustainable growthStrong internal systems support long-term successAI should enhance, not replace, core competenciesHonesty builds long-term client trustGrowth requires clarity, patience, and disciplined execution But First, Principles with Colin DavisReal stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.Each episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small business success so you can grow without burning out.This season, Season 2, we are featuring innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond. Helpful LinksWant practical tools to build a business that actually works?Visit: https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?Email Colin: colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com About ColinColin Davis is a business and leadership coach with a background in ministry, psychology, and organizational leadership. A former missionary and monk turned entrepreneur, he helps small business owners create focus, build systems, and achieve lasting growth through First Principles Coaching. He lives in Virginia with his wife and children. KeywordsAdrian Garcia, B & G Collective, growth marketing, entrepreneurship, small business marketing, digital advertising, local business, construction marketing, project management, AI in marketing, referrals, leadership, results-driven marketing, business growth

    47 min
  2. MAR 19

    SE02E17 Reimagining Law and Identity in the Age of AI and Entrepreneurship | Charles Inch

    Today’s Guest: Charles InchDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-inch/ This Episode:In this episode, Charles Inch shares a deeply reflective and honest conversation about entrepreneurship, law, identity, and what it really takes to build a meaningful life and business in a rapidly changing world. Charles discusses his journey as an entrepreneurial lawyer and why the traditional practice of law must be reimagined for the modern age. He explores the emotional and internal challenges entrepreneurs face, explaining how unresolved identity conflicts often surface as external business problems. This conversation goes beyond tactics and dives into self reflection, desire, resilience, and the internal work required to lead effectively. The discussion also examines the lasting impact of COVID 19 on business practices, how crisis can become a catalyst for transformation, and why understanding personal motivation is essential for sustainable success. Charles shares his perspective on AI and why building an AI resistant life and career requires intention, humanity, and emotional intelligence rather than relying solely on technology. Throughout the episode, the speakers reflect on legacy, leadership, and the importance of making intentional life choices instead of following societal expectations. This is a powerful conversation for lawyers, founders, and professionals navigating growth, change, and self discovery. Key TakeawaysReimagining the role of lawyers in modern societyEntrepreneurship as a personal and emotional journeyHow identity influences business outcomesViewing losses as learning experiencesThe importance of self reflection and internal workDesire, motivation, and intentional decision makingThe impact of COVID 19 on entrepreneurshipAI disruption and building long term resilienceLegacy, leadership, and personal fulfillmentHealing as a foundation for better leadership But First, Principles with Colin DavisReal stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.Each episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small business success so you can grow without burning out.This season, Season 2, we are featuring innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond. Helpful LinksWant practical tools to build a business that actually works?Visit: [https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com](https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com) Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?Email Colin: [colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com](mailto:colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com) About ColinColin Davis is a business and leadership coach with a background in ministry, psychology, and organizational leadership. A former missionary and monk turned entrepreneur, he helps small business owners create focus, build systems, and achieve lasting growth through First Principles Coaching. He lives in Virginia with his wife and children. KeywordsCharles Inch, entrepreneurship, law, identity, leadership, AI, business growth, personal development, resilience, self reflection

    55 min
  3. MAR 12

    SE02E16 From Podcast to Multi-Million Dollar Agency | Justin Brown

    Today’s Guest: Justin Brown of Marketers in DemandDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links:[https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbrown-marketersindemand/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbrown-marketersindemand/) This Episode:In this episode, Justin Brown of Marketers in Demand shares an honest and practical conversation about entrepreneurship, marketing, leadership, and what it really takes to scale a business in today’s competitive environment. Justin breaks down the realities of business growth, starting with Hofstadter’s Law and why almost everything in entrepreneurship takes longer than expected. He challenges the misleading success narratives often seen online and explains why focusing on your own path is far more powerful than comparing yourself to others. Justin shares his journey from a sports radio intern to building a podcasting brand that eventually evolved into a multi-million-dollar B2B tech marketing agency. Along the way, he discusses the role of competitive spirit in leadership, how the pandemic created unexpected growth opportunities, and why consistent daily content creation played a major role in building visibility and demand. The conversation also explores the future of agency success, including adapting to AI, the importance of sales skills for every professional, and the complexities of mergers and acquisitions. Justin explains why having a unified business model is critical for scaling, how M&A can be used strategically to acquire talent, and what visionary leadership looks like in a rapidly changing market. Key TakeawaysEntrepreneurship often takes longer than expected due to Hofstadter’s LawOnline success stories rarely show the full reality behind business growthFocusing on your own journey is more productive than constant comparisonConsistent content creation can drive visibility and market demandCompetitive leadership can strengthen culture and performanceThe pandemic created unexpected growth opportunities for many businessesSales skills are essential for professionals in every roleAI is reshaping the future of marketing and agency operationsA unified business model is critical for scaling an agencyMergers and acquisitions can be used strategically to acquire talent and capabilities But First, Principles with Colin DavisReal stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.Each episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small business success so you can grow without burning out.This season, Season 2, we are featuring innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond. Helpful LinksWant practical tools to build a business that actually works?Visit: [https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com](https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com) Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?Email Colin: [colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com](mailto:colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com) About ColinColin Davis is a business and leadership coach with a background in ministry, psychology, and organizational leadership. A former missionary and monk turned entrepreneur, he helps small business owners create focus, build systems, and achieve lasting growth through First Principles Coaching. He lives in Virginia with his wife and children. KeywordsJustin Brown, Marketers in Demand, entrepreneurship, B2B marketing, agency growth, content marketing, AI in marketing, business leadership, mergers and acquisitions, sales skills, marketing strategy, business scaling

    59 min
  4. MAR 5

    SE02E15 How To Sell When You Sell Random Numbers | Allan B. Pedin IV

    Today’s Guest: Allan B. Pedin IV of Randeo.NetDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links:[https://www.linkedin.com/in/allan-b-pedin-iv/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/allan-b-pedin-iv/) This Episode:In this conversation, Allan B. Pedin IV shares his journey in the blockchain industry and the story behind his company, Randeo.Net, which specializes in providing random numbers for cryptocurrency systems. Allan discusses the realities of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the level of commitment required to build a successful startup and the importance of deeply understanding your customers and their ecosystem. He explains the concept of customer discovery and how identifying the right customer segment can determine whether a startup succeeds or fails. Allan also explores the technical side of blockchain, including how transitioning from an application layer to a protocol can improve scalability across EVM blockchains. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the role blockchain plays in strengthening data security and trust while sharing his long-term vision for innovation and growth in the space. Key TakeawaysUnderstand who your client is and their ecosystemYou need to put 100% of your life into your businessCustomer discovery is crucial for understanding market needsTransitioning from application to protocol can enhance scalabilityIdentifying the right customer can make or break a startupBlockchain offers a new layer of data security and trustNetworking and personal connections are vital in businessFinancial projections are essential for startup sustainabilityThe future of blockchain will change how we interact with dataEntrepreneurship requires resilience and a willingness to adapt But First, Principles with Colin DavisReal stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.Each episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small business success so you can grow without burning out.This season, Season 2, we are featuring innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond. Helpful LinksWant practical tools to build a business that actually works?Visit: [https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com](https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com) Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?Email Colin: [colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com](mailto:colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com) About ColinColin Davis is a business and leadership coach with a background in ministry, psychology, and organizational leadership. A former missionary and monk turned entrepreneur, he helps small business owners create focus, build systems, and achieve lasting growth through First Principles Coaching. He lives in Virginia with his wife and children. Keywordsblockchain, entrepreneurship, customer discovery, random numbers, startup journey, data security, business strategy, EVM blockchains, technology, innovation

    53 min
  5. JAN 22

    SE02E14 The Interconnection of Work and Life | Dr. Katie Keller Wood

    Today’s Guest: Katie Keller-WoodDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-keller-wood/ This Episode:In this conversation, Katie Keller-Wood—entrepreneur, educator, and Montessori guide—shares her holistic perspective on education, entrepreneurship, and work-life balance. Katie explains why work and life are not separate spheres but deeply interconnected, and how Montessori principles can guide both personal growth and business leadership. She unpacks Montessori as both a pedagogy and a philosophy, emphasizing embodied learning, intuition built through practice, and the importance of nurturing the whole person—including spiritual and emotional dimensions. Katie also introduces the concept of cosmic tasks: the unique roles each of us plays in the world, whether through paid work, caregiving, or creative pursuits. She challenges traditional notions of balance, reframing life as a mosaic rather than a constant tradeoff. Throughout the episode, Katie highlights how noticing misalignment is the first step toward change, how agency empowers transformation, and how it’s possible to pursue meaningful work without losing your soul. Key TakeawaysNobody knows the “right” way to do business—trust your judgmentWork and life are interconnected, not competing forcesYou can bring all of who you are to your work and missionEducation should nurture the whole person, not just academicsMontessori is both a teaching method and a life philosophyPractice and repetition are essential for masteryIntuition develops through experience and embodied learningChildren are naturally curious—education should fan that flameCosmic tasks define our unique contribution to the worldAll work holds dignity and nobilityLife is a mosaic, not a balancing actNoticing misalignment is the first step toward changeEmpowerment comes from taking responsibility for your choicesYou can do important work without losing alignment or meaning But First, Principles with Colin DavisReal stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.Each episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small business success—so you can grow without burning out.This season, Season 2, features innovative entrepreneurs and thinkers shaping the Richmond region and beyond. Helpful LinksWant practical tools to build a business that actually works?Visit: [https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com](https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com) Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?Email Colin: [colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com](mailto:colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com) About ColinColin Davis is a business and leadership coach with a background in ministry, psychology, and organizational leadership. A former missionary and monk turned entrepreneur, he helps small business owners create focus, build systems, and achieve lasting growth through First Principles Coaching. He lives in Virginia with his wife and children. KeywordsKatie Keller-Wood, Montessori, work-life balance, holistic education, entrepreneurship, teaching philosophy, personal development, alignment, business coaching, cosmic task, personal growth, purpose, mindfulness, agency

    54 min
  6. JAN 15

    SE02E13 Integrated Strategy, Real Impact | With Jeff Hammer

    Today’s Guest: Jeff Hammer of Forte Impact AdvisorsDon’t forget! Like · Comment · Subscribe Guest Link:Jeff Hammer: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdhammer/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdhammer/) In this episode, Colin sits down with Jeff Hammer, founder of Forte Impact Advisors, to explore the deeper purpose behind wealth management, entrepreneurship, and consulting. Jeff shares his journey from traditional financial work into a more integrated, purpose-driven approach—one that blends mindset, strategy, and human connection. Jeff discusses why so many people settle for less than their true potential, how resilience shapes long-term success, and why listening is one of the most underutilized skills in business. The conversation dives into the unique role small businesses play in their communities, the creativity required to navigate challenges, and how tailored financial advice can unlock unexpected opportunities. This episode is a thoughtful look at building wealth—and businesses—with intention and impact. Key Takeaways An integrated approach is essential in effective wealth management.Mindset matters: there’s always a way to unlock potential.Many people settle for less than their true purpose.Listening deeply helps uncover real needs and opportunities.Resilience is one of life’s greatest accomplishments.Financial advice should be tailored to the individual.Creativity is critical in problem-solving and growth.Small businesses have a powerful impact on communities.Challenges often lead to unexpected opportunities.Strong relationships are the foundation of lasting success. But First, Principles with Colin Davis Real stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.Each episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small-business success—so you can grow without burning out.This season, Season 2, we’re featuring innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond. Helpful Links Want practical tools to build a business that actually works?Visit: [https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com](https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com) Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?Email Colin: [colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com](mailto:colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com) About Colin Colin Davis is a business and leadership coach with a background in ministry, psychology, and organizational leadership. A former missionary and monk turned entrepreneur, he helps small-business owners create focus, build systems, and achieve lasting growth through First Principles Coaching. He lives in Virginia with his wife and children.

    50 min
  7. JAN 8

    SE02E12 - Why Most Marketing Fails | With Kate Atkisson & Clay Black

    Today’s Guests: Kate Atkisson & Clay Black of Ripple EffectDon’t forget! Like · Comment · Subscribe Guest Links:Kate Atkisson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateatkisson/Clay Black: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayblack-creative/ In this episode, Colin sits down with Kate Atkisson and Clay Black from Ripple Effect to explore what it really takes to grow a brand that connects with people. Drawing from their experience as marketing strategists and entrepreneurs, they unpack the realities of brand growth, audience connection, and why embracing chaos is often part of the process. Kate and Clay discuss why so many businesses struggle with marketing, how listening can become a superpower, and why foundational elements like mission and vision matter more than logos and taglines. They also dive into the role of research, the lessons hidden in failure, and how community and networking can help entrepreneurs navigate uncertainty. This conversation is packed with practical insight for small-business owners looking to build meaningful relationships and sustainable growth. Key Takeaways Embrace the chaos in entrepreneurship.Many businesses struggle with effective marketing.Listening to your audience is crucial for brand success.Foundational elements like mission and vision are essential.Failure is a valuable part of the learning process.Community and networking provide critical support.Research helps clarify audience needs.Flexibility and adaptability drive long-term growth.Relationships matter more than branding elements alone.It’s okay - and wise - to seek help from experienced mentors. But First, Principles with Colin Davis Real stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.Each episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small-business success—so you can grow without burning out.This season, Season 2, we’re featuring innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond. Helpful Links Want practical tools to build a business that actually works?Visit: [https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com](https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com) Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?Email Colin: [colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com](mailto:colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com) About Colin Colin Davis is a business and leadership coach with a background in ministry, psychology, and organizational leadership. A former missionary and monk turned entrepreneur, he helps small-business owners create focus, build systems, and achieve lasting growth through First Principles Coaching. He lives in Virginia with his wife and children.

    55 min
  8. JAN 1

    SE02E11 - Building a Great Business That Evolves | Katherine Ross

    Today’s Guest: Katherine Ross of Ross Media SolutionsDon’t forget! Like · Comment · Subscribe Guest Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharine-ross-rms-seniorsguide/ --- This Episode: In this episode, Colin sits down with Katherine Ross of Ross Media Solutions to discuss entrepreneurship, marketing, and what it means to truly put people first in business. Katherine shares her journey working within a family business and how her values have shaped both leadership decisions and long-term strategy. They explore the evolution of media and marketing, the continued relevance of print for senior audiences, and the challenges multi-generational businesses face when adapting to change. Katherine also outlines her vision for serving the senior-care industry and why embracing uncertainty, self-reflection, and win-win thinking is essential for sustainable growth. --- Key Takeaways Put people first to get ahead in business. Good decisions don’t always show up in a spreadsheet. Excel sheets provide structure and clarity for management. Business flourishes when everyone involved is happy. Print media still matters for the senior demographic. Multi-generational businesses must evolve to stay relevant. Taking care of employees leads to long-term success. Entrepreneurs must learn to embrace uncertainty. Serving the senior-support industry is a growing opportunity. Self-reflection shapes strong business philosophy and leadership. --- But First, Principles with Colin DavisReal stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.Each episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small-business success—so you can grow without burning out.This season, Season 2, we’re featuring innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond. --- Helpful Links Want practical tools to build a business that actually works?Visit: [https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com](https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com) Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?Email Colin: [colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com](mailto:colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com) --- About Colin Colin Davis is a business and leadership coach with a background in ministry, psychology, and organizational leadership. A former missionary and monk turned entrepreneur, he helps small-business owners create focus, build systems, and achieve lasting growth through First Principles Coaching. He lives in Virginia with his wife and children.

    29 min

About

Welcome to the But First, Principles! Podcast hosted by Colin Davis! But First, Principles with Colin Davis is a podcast for leaders, entrepreneurs, and curious minds who want to dig deeper into how things really work. Each episode explores a timeless principle or mental model that drives exceptional decision-making, leadership clarity, and strategic thinking. With guests from business, tech, academia, and beyond, Colin helps listeners peel back the noise and return to what really matters: the principles that stand the test of time. Connect with Colin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-davis-1stprinciples/ Visit the First Principles Coaching website: http://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com/

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