Why Profit Margin is My Most Important KPI for 2026

What if the real measure of a healthy business isn't how much you make—but how much you keep? In this episode of The Experienced Entrepreneur, Marissa Lawton shares why she's shifting her focus to profit margin and what that means for seasoned business owners who are ready to step off the "scale at all costs" treadmill. After more than a decade in business, Marissa has seen every iteration of the CEO era—the endless hiring, the tech subscriptions, the outsourcing, the pressure to look like you're growing faster than you actually are. But now, the most experienced entrepreneurs are craving something different: stability, discernment, and financial breathing room. Inside this episode, you'll learn: What profit margin actually means and how to calculate it. Why mature entrepreneurs are prioritizing profit over growth. The difference between smart and wasteful investments (and how to know which is which). How to simplify your tech stack, trim recurring expenses, and build true financial resilience. Why keeping more money isn't about scarcity—it's about sovereignty. If you've been feeling the weight of too many expenses, too many tools, and too little clarity, this conversation will help you get back to what matters: a business that's efficient, steady, and deeply sustainable. Listen to Episode 10: Why I'm Focusing on Profit Margin Right Now