{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"But First, Principles!","title":"SE02E09 - When Do Emotions Drive Decision Making? | With Debbie Irwin","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":2468,"description":"Today’s Guest: Debbie Erwin of Lighthouse Network\nDon’t forget! Like · Comment · Subscribe\nGuest Links:\nhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/irwindj/\nThis Episode:\nIn this episode, Colin sits down with Debbie Erwin, Executive Director of Lighthouse Network, to talk about what really happens between startup hype and success. Debbie shares lessons from her own founder journey and why the “messy middle” is where many entrepreneurs get stuck.\nThey discuss emotional decision-making, realistic founder support, and why community, financial clarity, and validation matter more than chasing perfection. This conversation offers practical perspective for founders navigating uncertainty and growth.\nKey Takeaways\n* Progress matters more than perfection.\n* The messy middle is where founders need the most support.\n* Emotional awareness shapes better business decisions.\n* Validate your idea before leaving your job.\n* Financial systems are critical for sustainability.\n* Community creates resilience and momentum.\n* Entrepreneurship can create meaningful impact.\nBut First, Principles with Colin Davis\nReal stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.\nEach episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small-business success—so you can grow without burning out.\nThis season, Season 2, we’re featuring innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond.\nHelpful Links\nWant practical tools to build a business that actually works?\nVisit: [https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com](https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com)\nReady for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?\nEmail Colin: [colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com](mailto:colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com)\nAbout Colin\nColin 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...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/1td8dNmsNQNq9c225exsZB0blzzI70DhNoYSzRiOs-A/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS85MDg0/NDIyZWVmMTcxNGUx/NmMyYmU1ZmQwZjJh/MjY2My5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}