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. 2일 전

    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

    46분
  2. 4월 16일

    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

    56분
  3. 4월 9일

    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

    52분
  4. 4월 2일

    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

    44분
  5. 3월 26일

    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

    47분
  6. 3월 19일

    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

    55분
  7. 3월 12일

    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

    59분
  8. 3월 5일

    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

    53분

소개

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/