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. 2D AGO

    SE02E24 Entrepreneurship Lessons on Execution and Leadership | Benjamin Butterworth

    Today’s Guest: Benjamin Butterworth of Flight FrameDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminbutterworth/ This Episode:In this conversation, Benjamin Butterworth, CEO of Flight Frame, shares his entrepreneurial journey and the innovative vision driving the future of aviation technology. He discusses the realities of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the balance between high risk and high reward, and explains how reframing decisions through the lens of risk management can help leaders move forward with confidence. Benjamin also highlights the role of mentorship, leadership, and integrity in building successful organizations and developing future leaders. Drawing from his background in special operations, Benjamin explores how military experience shaped his approach to decision-making, uncertainty, and adaptability. He explains why being comfortable with incomplete information is essential in both combat and business environments and why courage often matters more than perfect analysis. The conversation dives into decision analysis, first principles thinking, and the importance of trust, emphasizing that integrity is one of the few things no one can take away from you. Benjamin also shares Flight Frame’s groundbreaking modular approach to aircraft design, discussing how aviation must evolve to keep pace with modern technological advancements. He explores the challenges of cultural resistance within established industries, the importance of de-risking strategies for small businesses, and the need to simplify complexity in order to innovate effectively. The discussion closes with a forward-looking perspective on modular aircraft systems and how they could transform the aviation industry in the years ahead. Key TakeawaysEntrepreneurs face high risks and rewards in their decisionsReframing decisions as risk decisions can mitigate downsidesAll progress depends on unreasonable people who challenge normsIntegrity is crucial and cannot be taken away from youLeadership is about influencing and developing future leadersA modular approach to aircraft design can revolutionize the industryThe aviation industry needs to adapt to modern technological advancementsSpecial operations experience teaches valuable risk management skillsBeing comfortable with uncertainty is essential for decision-makingIt’s better to have an 80% solution than to overanalyze every detailDecision analysis provides a framework for making informed choicesBeing decisive often requires acting with incomplete informationIntegrity and trust are crucial for business successCultural dynamics can significantly impact organizational changeDe-risking strategies are essential for small businessesNavigating complexity requires simplifying processes where possibleSelf-doubt is a common challenge for entrepreneursCultural resistance can hinder change efforts in organizationsBuilding a new culture takes time and sustained effortThe future of modular aircraft design holds promise for innovation 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: [First Principles Coaching](https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?Email Colin: 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. KeywordsBenjamin Butterworth, Flight Frame, entrepreneurship, aviation technology, leadership, modular design, risk management, innovation, mentorship, special operations, business strategy, decision analysis, decisiveness, first principles, integrity, trust, de-risking, complexity, cultural resistance, modular aircraft

    51 min
  2. APR 30

    SE02E23 Everyone Says Focus, She Did the Opposite | Susan M. Jamieson

    Today’s Guest: Susan M. Jamieson of Bridget Beari DesignsDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links:[https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiesonsusan/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiesonsusan/) This Episode:In this conversation, Susan M. Jamieson, Founder & Principal at Bridget Beari Designs, shares her journey through the interior design industry, highlighting how intuition, creativity, and resilience shape entrepreneurial success. She discusses the importance of trusting your instincts, building strong client relationships, and navigating the realities of business challenges. Susan explores the balance between creativity and strategy, emphasizing leadership, team dynamics, and the value of hiring the right people. She also dives into business diversification, why going beyond traditional advice can unlock new opportunities, and how her retail store complements her design work. Susan shares insights into color psychology, the growing role of AI in design, and why human touch remains irreplaceable. She reflects on the importance of service as a core driver of profitability and how personalization is shaping the future of interior design, especially in evolving spaces like rentals. She closes by emphasizing growth through experience, community involvement, and the ongoing evolution of both business and personal creativity. Key TakeawaysTrust your instincts when executing your business visionDiversification can create new opportunities despite conventional adviceBuilding a brand can be more valuable than personal brandingStrong client relationships are built through trust and repeat businessGiving back to the community is a vital part of businessMistakes are inevitable but manageable with the right mindsetCustomer service is essential for long-term successLeadership requires understanding multiple business functionsHiring the right team is critical to growthBalance creativity with strategic thinkingThe book is aimed at homeowners, especially first-time buyersColor choices are influenced by personal style and psychologyAI can support design but cannot replace human intuitionService is key to profitability in the design industryUnderstanding client needs drives successPersonalization is shaping trends, especially in rental spacesColor psychology plays a major role in design decisionsDiversification opens doors to innovationLearning from past projects fuels growthEntrepreneurship encourages creativity and personal development 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. KeywordsSusan M. Jamieson, Bridget Beari Designs, interior design, entrepreneurship, business challenges, client relationships, problem solving, team dynamics, leadership, retail store, product design, business diversification, color psychology, home decor, DIY, paint, wallpaper, trends

    50 min
  3. APR 23

    SE02E22 Finding Good Help Isn't Really That Hard | Katie Santoro

    Today’s Guest: Katie Santoro of Lift Business ResourcesDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiesantoro/ This Episode:In this conversation, Katie Santoro, founder and CEO of Lift Business Resources, shares her journey from corporate burnout to entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of community, work-life balance, and the need for boundaries in business. Katie discusses her experiences in starting her first business, navigating challenges, and the dynamics of her current business operations with a partner. The conversation highlights the evolution of her business and the significance of understanding personal limits to avoid burnout. The discussion also explores the dynamics of business partnerships, emphasizing the importance of balancing different perspectives. Katie highlights the role of established procedures in enhancing efficiency while maintaining flexibility to prevent burnout. She also speaks about empowering women through flexible employment opportunities and explains why human assistants bring a level of discernment and connection that AI cannot replicate. Key TakeawaysBuilding a business can feel isolating—community mattersWork-life balance is essential; hustle culture is not sustainableThere are multiple ways to approach business challengesGenerosity with time and resources strengthens teamsBurnout can lead to major life and career changesStarting a business requires navigating ongoing challengesA supportive partner can make a significant differenceBusiness operations evolve—adaptability is keyUnderstanding personal limits helps prevent burnoutSharing resources improves team efficiencyBoundaries are powerful and necessaryClear boundaries support healthy client relationshipsProcedures create space for creativityFlexibility within systems prevents rigidity and burnoutEmpowering women through flexible employment is vitalSmall businesses play a crucial role in the economyHuman assistants offer discernment AI cannot replicateRegularly evaluate whether systems still serve your needs 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. Keywordsentrepreneurship, work-life balance, community, business growth, corporate burnout, virtual assistant, business partnerships, executive support, personal development, boundaries, procedures, efficiency, flexible employment, small business, AI vs human assistants, women in workforce

    46 min
  4. APR 16

    SE02E21 How Do You Tell Your Story? | Brian McClure

    Today’s Guest: Brian McClure of StudioBDCDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links:[https://www.linkedin.com/in/studiobdc/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/studiobdc/) This Episode:In this conversation, Brian McClure, founder of StudioBDC, explores the role of process in creative work and why clarity is essential for producing strong results. He challenges hustle culture, explaining how constant busyness without structure can lead to chaos rather than progress. Brian shares insights from his journey through journalism, film, and media production, highlighting how storytelling has evolved alongside technology while still remaining rooted in human connection. He dives into the balance between chaos and organization, emphasizing that creativity thrives when supported by clear systems. Brian also discusses the importance of authentic storytelling in branding and corporate communication, noting that even when working with large organizations, the goal is always to serve real people. The conversation expands into the entrepreneurial mindset, where adaptability, resilience, and creativity are essential. Brian reflects on the psychological challenges of running a business, from dealing with rejection to making confident decisions under pressure. He also touches on the importance of effective marketing—especially for small businesses—and how storytelling can elevate a brand’s message without requiring massive budgets. Finally, Brian shares his perspective on the future of digital media, encouraging business owners to focus on meaningful communication, embrace change, and build a strong reputation that can support long-term growth and pivots. Key TakeawaysIf the process isn't clear, the work will sufferPlan the work and work the plan applies to creative processesHustle culture can lead to poor planning and chaosBalance between chaos and organization is crucial in businessAuthentic storytelling is essential for effective brandingThe evolution of media has changed how stories are toldEvery project should focus on making the audience's experience betterBrainstorming should allow for all ideas, no matter how wildWorking with corporations can still be about serving everyday peopleThe journey from journalism to film has shaped my storytelling approachThe process of adaptation is crucial for business survivalEntrepreneurs must embrace a mindset of creativity and flexibilityMarketing is essential, even for small businesses on tight budgetsStorytelling can significantly enhance a business's messageFacing challenges head-on is a part of the entrepreneurial journeyRejection is a common fear that entrepreneurs must overcomeTechnology is evolving, and businesses should invest in partnerships to stay aheadClear decision-making is more important than creating excessive contentThe future of digital media requires a focus on authentic communicationBuilding a strong reputation can ease the transition during business pivots 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. KeywordsStudioBDC, Brian McClure, creative process, storytelling, hustle culture, branding, media production, business organization, chaos and order, entrepreneurship, marketing, digital media, business adaptation, ROI, challenges, technology, psychology

    56 min
  5. APR 9

    SE02E20 Marketing Using First Principles | Ben Scandlen

    Today’s Guest: Ben Scandlen of Mosaic Growth SolutionsDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links:[https://www.linkedin.com/in/benscandlen/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/benscandlen/) This Episode:In this conversation, Ben **Scandlen** of Mosaic Growth Solutions shares his expertise on building customer-centric growth strategies for technology companies and small businesses alike. He explains why true growth is not deterministic but probabilistic—shaped by timing, luck, and strong foundational decisions. Ben dives into how businesses should prioritize customer success as the core of their vision, emphasizing that a brand is ultimately defined by the experiences it creates, not just its visual identity. Ben also explores the complexities of decision-making, highlighting the importance of understanding both measurable and immeasurable factors that influence outcomes. He discusses the role of customer feedback—both tangible and psychological—and how businesses can use it to refine their strategies. Reflecting on his personal journey, Ben underscores the value of making a meaningful impact in others’ lives and building businesses rooted in purpose. The conversation further examines trust, expectations, and the belief value framework, offering insights into how customers evaluate perceived benefits and costs. Ben shares practical advice for navigating entrepreneurial challenges, improving marketing effectiveness, and creating value without expectation. Ultimately, this episode provides a thoughtful look at how human behavior, trust, and intentional strategy intersect to drive sustainable business growth. Key TakeawaysCustomer success should drive the vision of a companyGrowth is probabilistic, not deterministicMany important metrics cannot be directly measuredA brand is defined by customer experienceUnderstanding customer needs is essentialCustomer feedback includes both real and psychological benefitsOpportunity cost matters in customer interactionsStrong foundations are critical for growthTrust is essential in customer relationshipsCustomer expectations shape business successThe belief value framework drives decision-makingBelief depends on trust and perceived capabilityEducation only matters after action is takenIteration is key to long-term growthProviding value without expectation leads to opportunityMarketing should focus on improving expectationsNetworking and collaboration fuel growth 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. KeywordsMosaic Growth Solutions, customer-centric growth, decision-making, business strategies, small business, growth frameworks, entrepreneurial insights, marketing, technology companies, customer feedback, customer trust, decision making, belief value framework, entrepreneurship, providing value, marketing challenges, growth strategies, business success, networking

    52 min
  6. APR 2

    SE02E19 Consistency: The Key to Entrepreneurial Success | With Marcus R Thomas

    Today’s Guest: Marcus Thomas of KEI ArchitectsDon’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe --- Guest Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusrthomas/ --- This Episode:In this conversation, Marcus Thomas of KEI Architects shares insights into his journey as an architect and business leader. He explores how consistency plays a foundational role in long-term success and why building a business mirrors the intentionality of designing a structure. Marcus reflects on his upbringing, education, and career progression, highlighting the importance of trust, mentorship, and learning to delegate effectively. He also dives into the complexities of architecture, including liability, standards of care, and the responsibility architects carry in shaping communities. Marcus discusses how his firm navigated growth during COVID-19, making strategic decisions that strengthened both operations and relationships. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes clear communication, strong team dynamics, and viewing buildings as meaningful contributors to the community. Marcus ultimately shares his philosophy on leadership, growth, and entrepreneurship—encouraging others to take the leap, invest in relationships, and lead with integrity. --- Key TakeawaysYour role is to help clients bring ideas to life through architectureConsistency is key to long-term successNot every opportunity is worth pursuingBuilding a business requires intentional design and planningArchitectural thinking provides a unique lens for business strategyScaling from a small team to a larger firm requires discipline and visionIntegrity is essential for building a lasting legacyTrust and delegation are critical leadership skillsMentorship can significantly shape your careerVision and creativity fuel sustainable growthArchitecture carries liability and requires a high standard of careEffective delegation is necessary for strong leadershipAdapting quickly during COVID-19 was essential for growthRelationship-building drives business developmentClear communication builds trust within teams and with clientsBuildings should contribute positively to their communitiesCollaboration accelerates learning and growthLeadership is about helping others succeedHiring the right people makes a lasting impactEntrepreneurship is challenging—but worth it --- 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

    44 min
  7. MAR 26

    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
  8. 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

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/