Today’s Guest: Scott Hicks of Ballyhoo
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Guest Links:
[https://www.linkedin.com/in/dscotthicks/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dscotthicks/)

This Episode:
In this conversation, Scott Hicks, founder of Ballyhoo Digital, shares his entrepreneurial journey, the evolution of his marketing philosophy, and the principles that guide how he builds and leads his company. Scott discusses why your path to success rarely looks the way you expect, why profit shouldn’t be your primary motivator, and how flexibility plays a defining role in entrepreneurship. He dives into the importance of ethical business practices, full transparency in reporting, and the deeper psychology behind effective marketing. Scott also explores the growing impact of AI—predicting it will be as transformative as the internet—and highlights why being able to say “no” to clients is a crucial part of staying aligned with your values. He closes by outlining his vision for Ballyhoo Digital as it expands into new verticals and continues prioritizing people over profit.

Key Takeaways
Your path to success is probably not what you think
Profit shouldn’t be your primary motivator
Flexibility is key in entrepreneurship
Transparency in reporting is crucial
Marketing is about encouraging people to take action
You can discard what society says is the norm
AI will be as impactful as the internet
You can say no to clients—and should
Building a company that treats people well is essential
Do what you like well enough and you’ll get good at it

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 are 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: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])

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.

Keywords
Scott Hicks, Ballyhoo Digital, entrepreneurship, marketing, business principles, AI, online marketing, small business, human psychology, business growth

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Show Notes:

Keywords

Scott Hicks, Ballyhoo Digital, entrepreneurship, marketing, business principles, AI, online marketing, small business, human psychology, business growth

Summary

In this conversation, Scott Hicks, founder of Ballyhoo Digital, shares his entrepreneurial journey, insights on marketing, and the principles that guide his business. He emphasizes the importance of flexibility, ethical practices, and transparency in business. Scott discusses the impact of AI on the marketing landscape and the future of his company as it expands into new verticals. The conversation highlights the significance of values and principles in achieving long-term success and fulfillment in entrepreneurship.

Takeaways

Your path to success is probably not what you think.
Profit shouldn't be your primary motivator.
Flexibility is key in entrepreneurship.
Transparency in reporting is crucial.
Marketing is about encouraging people to take action.
You can discard what society says is the norm.
AI will be as impactful as the internet.
I can say no to clients and I do.
Building a company that treats people well is my priority.
Do what you like well enough and you're pretty good at it.

Titles

Navigating Entrepreneurship with Scott Hicks
The Principles of Successful Business

Sound bites

"Flexibility is key in entrepreneurship."
"Transparency in reporting is crucial."
"I can say no to clients and I do."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Scott Hicks and Ballyhoo Digital
03:00 Entrepreneurial Wisdom and Controversial Opinions
05:48 Scott's Journey and Background
11:32 The Birth of Ballyhoo Digital
17:34 Marketing Insights and Human Psychology
23:41 First Principles in Business
29:25 The Future of Business and AI
35:20 Conclusion and Future Plans