In Fort Collins, where community isn’t just a word but a way of life, the story of Sage Marketing Group (SageMG) stands as a reflection of something deeper than business success. It’s about people, purpose, and the power of showing up.
For Doug Larson, success didn’t begin in a conference room. It started in Walden, Colorado, on a ranch where long days, early mornings, and relentless responsibility weren’t optional. They were expected. That environment didn’t just shape his work ethic, it defined it.
“Show up. Do the work. Be part of something bigger than yourself.”
Those principles followed him from the ranch to the basketball court at Colorado State University, and eventually into the business world; where he would go on to build SageMG into something far more meaningful than an agency.
From the beginning, Larson believed marketing wasn’t about transactions, it was about connection. About turning clients into advocates. Fans. Believers. That philosophy, what he often describes as “fanatical marketing,” became the backbone of Sage’s growth over the past 24 years. From its early days as a virtual agency to its evolution into a modern digital powerhouse, Sage has stayed ahead by staying grounded.
Grounded in people. Grounded in purpose.
As SageMG enters its next chapter, David Finkelstein brings a new layer of leadership, as the Agency’s Creative Director, one that complements Larson ’s foundation with a focus on scale, intention, and culture.
Finkelstein’s path, from creative roots to leadership at the Bank of Colorado, has shaped a perspective that prioritizes both performance and authenticity. He understands that growth without alignment is unsustainable. And that the strongest brands aren’t the loudest, they’re the most genuine.
His leadership philosophy is refreshingly simple: lead by example.
It’s not about hierarchy. It’s about presence. About building trust within a team and creating an environment where people don’t just work, they care. Where culture isn’t stated, it’s lived.
But what truly sets both Larson and Finkelstein apart is their shared commitment to something beyond business.
Both Larson and Finkelstein are deeply invested in Northern Colorado, particularly through their involvement in initiatives like Northern Colorado United for Youth (NOCO Unify). What began as a local chapter of a national organization has grown into an independent nonprofit focused on raising funds for children’s charities in Northern Colorado while developing the next generation of leaders. It’s not networking for the sake of business, it’s about giving back through time, talent, and resources.
This commitment reflects a shared belief: real impact is built over time. It’s found in the relationships you nurture, the culture you create, and the legacy you leave behind.
At its core, SageMG isn’t just an agency. It’s a living example of what happens when passion meets purpose. When leaders prioritize people, stay grounded in their values, and invest in the communities that shape them.
Because in Fort Collins, success isn’t just about what you build. It’s about who you build it with, and who you lift along the way.
Rooted in community and driven by purpose, SageMG exists to help local businesses build meaningful connections and brands people genuinely believe in.
One of the things both Larson and Finkelstein understand deeply is that great marketing, much like great leadership, starts with listening. In an industry constantly evolving through technology, algorithms, and AI, SageMG has continued to stand out by never losing sight of the human side of business.
For Larson, adaptability has been one of the defining factors behind Sage’s longevity. Over the past two decades, the agency has continually evolved alongside the changing media landscape, embracing innovation while staying rooted in authentic storytelling and meaningful relationships. That balance between strategy and connection has allowed Sage to grow with its clients rather than simply market to them.
Finkelstein brings that same mindset into the agency’s future. His approach centers around understanding not just what a brand does, but who it truly is. He believes the most impactful marketing happens when businesses communicate with honesty, clarity, and purpose. It’s about building trust over time, not chasing quick wins.
Together, Larson and Finkelstein represent a leadership partnership grounded in collaboration, creativity, and community. Their vision for SageMG isn’t simply continued growth, it’s building an agency that leaves a lasting impact on the businesses, people, and communities it serves throughout Northern Colorado. In Fort Collins, where community isn’t just a word but a way of life, the story of Sage.
“Show up. Do the work. Be part of something bigger than yourself.” - Doug Larson