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Squid Game is back—and this time, the knives are out. In the thrilling Season 3 premiere, Player 456 is spiraling and a brutal round of hide-and-seek forces players to kill or be killed. Hosts Phil Yu and Kiera Please break down Gi-hun’s descent into vengeance, Guard 011’s daring betrayal of the Game, and the shocking moment players are forced to choose between murdering their friends… or dying. Then, Carlos Juico and Gavin Ruta from the Jumpers Jump podcast join us to unpack their wild theories for the season. Plus, Phil and Kiera face off in a high-stakes round of “Hot Sweet Potato.” SPOILER ALERT! Make sure you watch Squid Game Season 3 Episode 1 before listening on. Play one last time. IG - @SquidGameNetflix X (f.k.a. Twitter) - @SquidGame Check out more from Phil Yu @angryasianman , Kiera Please @kieraplease and the Jumpers Jump podcast Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts . Squid Game: The Official Podcast is produced by Netflix and The Mash-Up Americans.…
Content provided by Acresis and Steven Pivnik. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Acresis and Steven Pivnik or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
Welcome to Built to Finish! Join host, Steven Pivnik, each week as he explores the journeys of audacious goal setters. This includes experienced Founders, CEOs and entrepreneurs sharing pivotal moments that propelled their success. We’ll also be talking with endurance athletes who push the limits of physical and mental ability. This show is brought to you by Acresis — offering tailored, high-impact advisory services to help founders get to their finish line with a strategic acquisition or majority investor recapitalization. To learn more, go to: https://acresis.com/
Content provided by Acresis and Steven Pivnik. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Acresis and Steven Pivnik or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
Welcome to Built to Finish! Join host, Steven Pivnik, each week as he explores the journeys of audacious goal setters. This includes experienced Founders, CEOs and entrepreneurs sharing pivotal moments that propelled their success. We’ll also be talking with endurance athletes who push the limits of physical and mental ability. This show is brought to you by Acresis — offering tailored, high-impact advisory services to help founders get to their finish line with a strategic acquisition or majority investor recapitalization. To learn more, go to: https://acresis.com/
William Bell, Chief Sales Officer at Chief Outsiders and Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Accelerate Consulting, discusses the critical strategies for successfully selling a business. He shares his expert advice for founders, covering everything from maximizing valuation to navigating the intense due diligence process. Discover the common "tricks" sellers attempt, such as manipulating pipelines with non-binding letters of intent, and why honesty is always the best policy to avoid derailing a deal. William and Steven also share their personal experiences as members of the CEO Project, highlighting how an advisory board of peers can help leaders brainstorm solutions and accelerate success. Takeaways: Maximize Your Sale: Hiring a good investment banker is the most important first step a founder can take when looking to sell. To get the highest price, your best bet is to try and sell to a strategic acquirer, who will almost always pay more than a private equity firm. Due Diligence is Deep: Be honest and upfront during due diligence, as acquirers will dig deep and likely uncover any hidden information, such as undisclosed stock transfers or shell companies. Trying to "pull the wool over" a PE firm's eyes is very difficult. The "Second Bite" is Real: Founders have a great opportunity for a "second bite of the apple" by rolling equity forward into the new company. This second payout can realistically be three to four times the multiple on the reinvested money. Avoid the "Rainmaker" Trap: Promoting your top "rainmaker" salesperson to sales manager is a "very big mistake" that stalls growth in many companies. The skillset of a great salesperson is completely different from that of a sales manager, and you lose your best person in the field. The Post-Acquisition Myth: Bill completely disagrees with the idea that a private equity firm will automatically fire a founder CEO within a year. Good PE firms often want the founder to stay and will have honest conversations about their future role before the deal closes. Quote of the Show: “Being a rainmaker is a completely different skillset than being a sales manager.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williambellsr/?trk=people-guest_people_search-card Chief Outsiders: https://www.chiefoutsiders.com/ Xcelerate Consulting: https://www.xcelerate-consulting.com/ The CEO Project: https://theceoproject.com/ Email: william.bell@xcelerate-consulting.com Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/iuNZrzNXfdc…
Joanna Lohman is a globally recognized keynote speaker, sports diplomat, mental performance coach, and a former professional soccer player for the Washington Spirit. Joanna shares her powerful journey from the pitch to the podium, offering insights into her transition from elite athlete to transformational speaker and coach. Joanna dives deep into the pursuit of potential, the power of authenticity, and the dangers of early sports specialization for kids. She reflects on the mentors and meaningful moments that shaped her path, while challenging conventional definitions of success by championing process over outcome and values over validation. Drawing from her acclaimed book Raising Tomorrow’s Champions, Joanna shares inspiring stories from the world of women’s soccer, offering lessons for athletes, parents, and anyone striving to live with purpose. The episode wraps with heartfelt advice on how to find joy, stay grounded, and raise the next generation to be boldly and unapologetically themselves. Takeaways: Diversify Your Work and Play: Joanna highlights the importance of engaging in diverse activities. Her multifaceted career and early involvement in multiple sports underlined how a variety of experiences contributed to her success. Embracing a range of activities can help build a more robust skillset. Focus on Internal Drive, Not External Rewards: Joanna discusses the significance of focusing on internal satisfaction rather than chasing external achievements like medals or scholarships. This mindset fosters true passion and performance. Cultivate a love for the process and personal growth, rather than fixating on the end result. Value of Authenticity: Joanna's approach to life and career underscores the importance of authenticity. Being true to oneself led to her best performances on the field and formed deeper connections with fans. Make authenticity a core value. It builds genuine connections and leads to more fulfilling and impactful experiences. Resilience in Adversity: Joanna's journey through failed leagues and personal challenges illustrates the value of resilience. Struggles can lead to strength and clarity in one's purpose. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow and build resilience. They often lead to significant breakthroughs. Reduce Sports Specialization: For young athletes, Joanna advises against early sports specialization and encourages a more diversified athletic background to prevent burnout and build overall athleticism. Encourage children to play multiple sports, as this builds comprehensive physical skills and reduces injury risk. Importance of Self-Reflection: Joanna emphasizes self-reflection and understanding personal values to live a fulfilling life. Take time for self-reflection and define your core values. Journal or meditate to understand who you want to be and how to align daily actions with your values. Limit Social Media: Joanna points out the negative impact of excessive social media on self-esteem and values. Limiting social media use can help maintain focus and mental well-being. Reduce time spent on social media to avoid negative influences and to stay focused on personal growth and real-life interactions. Quote of the Show: "When we live in our values and we speak our truth, we are happier people with deeper satisfaction and enjoyment and meaning, and those are the three key elements to happiness." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannalohman/ Personal Website: https://joannalohman.com/ Book: https://rtcsoccer.com/…
What does it take, not just financially, but emotionally and strategically, to sell the company you built from the ground up? Kelly Stratton, President and Founder of Quire, a cloud-based platform transforming technical report writing. As a seasoned environmental engineer and advocate for Agile development, Kelly shares her journey through the successful sale of her company and the lessons learned along the way. She emphasizes the value of assembling a specialized M&A team—accountants, legal advisors, and investment bankers—who can guide founders through complex decisions. Initially skeptical of private equity, Kelly explains how the experience ultimately shifted her perspective and resulted in a better outcome for her business. From the importance of clean financial records to navigating equity issues and planning for wealth management, Kelly offers actionable insights for any entrepreneur considering a sale. She also explores how to maintain company culture post-acquisition and how her role evolved under new ownership. With candid reflections on valuation, financial metrics like the Rule of 40, and the indispensable role of a good investment banker, this conversation shines a light on the strategic and emotional realities of exiting a company—and what it means to finish well. Takeaways: Build a Great Team: Carefully select a team of professionals experienced in M&A processes, such as specialized accountants, business attorneys, financial advisors, and even a fractional CFO, if necessary. Their expertise can significantly impact the efficiency and success of the transaction. Engage a Skilled Investment Banker: Find an investment banker well-versed in your industry who can accurately value your business and market it effectively. They should be able to guide you through the entire M&A process and help you understand the true worth of your company. Have Open Conversations with Potential Buyers: Engage in discussions with both strategic buyers and private equity firms. Understanding their perspectives and what they bring to the table will help you make an informed decision about the future owners of your business. Engage with a Wealth Manager Early: Start working with a wealth manager well in advance of the transaction. They can help you understand your financial needs post-transaction, set up donor-advised funds, and implement other strategies to optimize your financial outcomes. Clean Up Your Books: Ensure your financial records are clear, accurate, and follow best practices. Small discrepancies can hold up deals, and having transparent and well-maintained financial records can expedite the process and ensure you get a fair valuation. Prepare for Emotional Challenges: Selling a business you founded can be highly emotional. Preparing mentally for this transition and understanding how to balance the emotional aspects with business decisions is crucial for a smooth process. Adapt and Upgrade Your Team as Needed: Recognize when it’s essential to bring in more specialized team members, particularly those with exit experience. Although it might be tough due to loyalty to your initial team, having the right people in place is key for scaling and facilitating a successful exit. Quote of the Show: "Don't trust your story with just anyone. They need to know you. They need to have deep expertise and knowledge about the space that you work in." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-l-stratton-5a64485/ Website: https://openquire.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/1t4cPFqZV8w…
In this episode of Built To Finish, host Steven sits down with James Hall, CEO of Enate, to explore his impressive track record in the advanced technology sector and his strategic approach to successful business exits. James takes us through his entrepreneurial journey—starting with the founding of Gen Four in 2012, its acquisition by Accenture in 2017, and his current leadership role at Innate. He dives into the critical components of building a business with a clear exit in mind, including the importance of knowing your business model, identifying your target buyers, and setting a defined exit number. James also offers expert insights into automation and orchestration technology, navigating due diligence, structuring earnouts, and the key distinctions between founding a startup and running a mature company. Throughout the conversation, he shares the personal motivations that drive him—and the satisfaction that comes from guiding a company to a meaningful and rewarding conclusion. Takeaways: Maximizing Stakeholder Value: Always strategize to ensure that all stakeholders benefit at the exit. This involves knowing your company's strengths, aligning them with market needs, and effectively communicating this value during negotiations. Define Your Target Market Early: Identify and understand your target market and potential buyers early in your company’s lifecycle. This strategic foresight allows you to build a product or service that meets specific market needs and increases attractiveness to potential acquirers. Prioritize Recurring Revenue: While project-based revenue can be significant, recurring revenue models often yield higher valuations. Transitioning from a pure services model to technology-enabled services can provide a steady and predictable revenue stream, making your business more attractive to buyers. Build Proprietary Technology: Develop proprietary technology that underpins your service delivery. This can create significant value and act as a multiplier during valuation. Intellectual property that can be leveraged across multiple use cases is especially valuable. Structuring Earn-Outs Wisely: When structuring an earn-out with an acquiring company, ensure that it’s achievable and not overly dependent on factors outside your control. Strike a balance between what’s taken upfront and what’s contingent to avoid future conflicts. Confidentiality During the Exit Process: It's crucial to manage how and when the information about the exit process is shared within your organization. Maintain a balance between keeping key personnel informed and avoiding unnecessary distractions. Prepare Thoroughly for Due Diligence: Before entering a due diligence phase, rehearse the process and ensure all your financials, contracts, and operational details are in order. Being prepared can streamline the process and reduce the risk of complications. Quote of the Show: "The real multiplier on the value of the business comes from underpinning services with proprietary technology that enhances the delivery mechanism." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-hall-enate/ Website: https://www.enate.io/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/ryC9sDulPOE…
Damon Lembi, a two-time bestselling author, podcast host, and the founder and CEO of Learnit, shares his perspective on leadership and decision-making. He discusses the central concept from his book, "The Learn It All Leader," which contrasts "learn-it-alls" who are humble and open to new ideas, with "know-it-alls" who are stuck in their ways. A key decision highlighted in his career was the acquisition of a local competitor right before COVID, a move that proved to be highly successful. The conversation also explores common decision-making pitfalls for leaders, such as making rash, emotional choices, not involving the right stakeholders, and waiting too long for complete information. Lembi emphasizes that creating a culture of learning starts with leadership and involves giving and receiving feedback effectively to foster psychological safety. He shares personal anecdotes about mistakes made in his entrepreneurial journey, including over-expanding the business and making a poor hiring choice for a COO. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI on business and the motivations behind both Lembi and Pivnik writing their respective books. Takeaways: Key Decisions for Success: Identify and take advantage of strategic opportunities, such as acquiring competitors. For example, Damon mentioned acquiring a local competitor before COVID for a fair price, which significantly benefited their growth. Avoiding Decision-Making Pitfalls: Leaders should avoid making rash or purely emotional decisions, involve the right stakeholders, and consider multiple options rather than viewing decisions as binary choices. Continuous Learning Culture: Promote a culture of continuous learning within your organization, starting from the top. Leadership should model learning behavior, encourage feedback, and create an environment where people feel safe to innovate and make mistakes. Effective Utilization of AI: Leverage AI to optimize tasks and challenge assumptions. Use AI as a sounding board to review plans and gain new perspectives, thus enhancing decision-making processes. Rereading and Implementing Book Strategies: Instead of reading multiple new books annually, focus on deeply understanding and applying the lessons from a few key books that resonate with your goals. Implement these strategies thoroughly for better results. Smart Promotions: Carefully assess why an individual wants a leadership role before promoting them. Ensure they have the necessary skills and desire for leadership to avoid disrupting their performance and team dynamics. Learning from Mistakes: Reflect on past mistakes (dummy tax) to avoid repeating them. Damon shared his experience of overexpansion and making hasty executive hiring decisions without proper due diligence, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and patience. Quote of the Show: “As an entrepreneur, as a leader, you gotta get comfortable with getting outta your comfort zone and putting your story out on paper and sharing it with the world" Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembi/ Personal Website: https://www.thelearnitallleader.com/ Company Website: https://www.learnit.com/ “The Learn It All Leader”: https://a.co/d/h5nTxco “Good Decisions Equal Success”: https://a.co/d/4IO3RU3 Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/n1Sgp1-DCHQ…
Former professional football player and inspirational figure Mike Pawlawski shares his journey from overcoming cystic fibrosis to becoming a world champion quarterback. Mike discusses his success in building companies, his work as a TV producer and broadcaster, and his role as a keynote speaker and high-performance coach. He emphasizes the importance of persistence, adaptation, and the interplay between psychology and physiology in achieving greatness. Mike also recounts a harrowing encounter with a grizzly bear during the filming of an outdoor documentary. He concludes by offering actionable advice for setting and achieving audacious goals and describes how anyone can train themselves to reach their full potential. Takeaways: Overcoming Hurdles: To overcome incredible hurdles like a serious disease, it’s essential to have an unwavering mindset and the support of those around you. Mike’s story of overcoming cystic fibrosis showcases the power of persistence and a supportive environment. Your Body Adapts: Your body is designed to adapt to the stresses you put it through. By persistently challenging it—whether through physical activities or mental tasks—you can enhance your capabilities. Mike’s journey from a sickly kid to a world champion is a prime example of this adaptive ability. Developing Discipline: To develop discipline, start by breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. Focus on doing one small piece consistently until it becomes a habit, and then add the next piece. Over time, these small habits will compound to form a disciplined lifestyle. Perform at Your Peak: Achieving peak performance involves a combination of physiological and psychological preparedness. Understanding and harnessing your body's acute stress response can turn anxiety into a performance enhancer. Make a Deal with Yourself: When facing a tough situation, make a deal with yourself to take just one more step. This method helps to break down overwhelming tasks and ensures continuous progress, much like how Mike pushed through his early running struggles. Focused Effort: Focused effort yields focused results. It’s essential to have intentional, planned actions toward your goals. This structured approach helps ensure that you’re making the most efficient progress possible. Set Your Identity: Establish a clear identity for who you want to be. This identity will guide your habits and help align your actions with your goals. Mike’s experience in setting his identity as a world-class quarterback, despite initial inadequacies, demonstrates the power of a strong self-concept. Quote of the Show: "Greatness comes from maximizing your talent, optimizing your nervous system. Accomplishment takes audacity." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepawlawski/ Website: https://mikepawlawski.com/ Book Link: https://a.co/d/9pkTkPL Text “GREAT” to 55444 to receive a free worksheet on how to develop your identity Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/e4TReM3bu6Q…
Is your business truly ready for the AI revolution, or will it be left behind? In this episode of Built To Finish, we sit down with Armando Viteri, a seasoned executive with over 25 years in enterprise computing and a co-founder of multiple successful companies. Join us as Armando unpacks the profound ways Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the landscape for software companies and businesses at large. Discover how AI is revolutionizing internal processes, supercharging productivity, and catalyzing a fundamental cultural shift within organizations. Armando shares his compelling prediction about the decline of traditional enterprise SaaS as AI-driven solutions take center stage, and he highlights the critical role AI plays in slashing operational costs and boosting efficiencies. Learn about New Block, Armando's company, and their innovative, technology-agnostic approach to implementing AI in both agile startups and established large enterprises. We also delve into the potential regulatory hurdles on the horizon and explore the indispensable need for human oversight in the deployment of AI. Finally, Armando underscores why having AI experts in the boardroom is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for navigating this monumental technological transformation. Tune in for invaluable insights that could define the future of your business! Takeaways: Integrate AI into Your Company's Technology Stack and Operations: Companies should incorporate AI not only in their customer-facing products to remain competitive but also in their internal operations (like software development, marketing, and customer support) to boost productivity and reduce costs. For Startups, Focus on AI Solutions for the SMB Market: The enterprise space is moving towards bespoke, in-house AI solutions. Startups have a significant opportunity in developing AI-powered products for Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs) that lack the resources to build their own. This often involves pairing a domain expert with an AI technology partner. Re-skill Your Workforce with a Focus on Soft Skills: As AI handles more hard skills (like coding), the value of soft skills—such as critical thinking, communication, and emotional intelligence—will increase disproportionately. Companies should consider reskilling their workforce to adapt to this shift rather than just focusing on headcount reduction. Ensure Your Board Includes AI Expertise: Given the fundamental shift AI represents, companies of all sizes, especially public ones, make a strategic mistake if they don't have a genuine AI expert on their board to guide strategy and implementation, not just a management consultant. Prepare for the Decline of Enterprise SaaS: Businesses, particularly large enterprises, should anticipate a shift away from traditional enterprise SaaS solutions. As AI capabilities grow, companies may find it more cost-effective and efficient to develop bespoke AI agents and solutions in-house, as exemplified by Klarna replacing Salesforce and Workday with its own AI. Adopt a Technology-Agnostic Approach to AI Implementation: When implementing AI, avoid being locked into a single vendor's technology stack. Instead, choose solutions and partners that are technology-agnostic to ensure the best fit for specific problems, potentially combining generative AI, narrow AI, and traditional algorithms. Recognize AI as a Cultural Shift, Not Just a Technological One: Implementing AI effectively is more than a technology upgrade; it requires a cultural transformation within the organization. Businesses need to prepare for changes in how work is done, how decisions are made, and what roles humans play alongside AI. Quote of the Show: "AI is never gonna take away your job, but somebody who knows how to use AI will be the one that takes away your job." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armandoviteri/ Website: https://neubloc.ai/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/SzSoEzUqYZc…
Jon Giganti, a seasoned sales professional, former division one collegiate athlete, and author of the USA Today bestseller 'With Intention.' John shares his journey of writing the book, rooted in his early experiences with motivational literature and his struggles with performance in sports and sales. He discusses the concept of living with intentionality, overcoming obstacles, and managing 'intention deficit disorder,' a term introduced by Dr. Russell Barkley. The conversation also covers productivity strategies, the importance of building trust within teams, and John's recent leap from corporate America to entrepreneurship. John now focuses on coaching, speaking, and developing tools to help others reach their potential by reducing internal interference. Takeaways: Put Yourself in Position to Serve Others: Focus on building yourself so you can effectively serve others. Shifting from self-centered goals to service-oriented ones not only enriches others but also creates sustainable success for you. Gamify Your Habits: Use habit-tracking apps to make personal growth fun and measurable. Turning habits into a game can boost consistency and motivation. Lean Into the Storm: Don’t avoid challenges—face them head-on, like a bison running into a storm. This approach builds resilience and helps you overcome difficulties more effectively. Performance = Potential – Interference: Identify and minimize the "interference" in your life, such as self-doubt or external distractions, to unlock your full potential and improve performance. Embrace the 'Next Play' Mindset: Like in sports, quickly move past mistakes by learning from them and focusing on the next opportunity. This reduces emotional baggage and keeps you progressing. Practice Envisioning Exercises: Regularly engage in visualization practices, like creating vision boards, to align your subconscious with your goals and support better decision-making. Invest in Coaching and Mentorship: Seek guidance from coaches and mentors who can provide feedback, insights, and accountability to accelerate your personal and professional growth. Quote of the Show: “Once you realize that life's a journey and they're all lessons, you never really fail.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-giganti-3173172/ Website: https://www.jongiganti.com/ Book Link: https://a.co/d/6gF8Fig Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/X452I7QoTAY…
Ready to scale your business and make a real impact? Discover how a healthcare leader built a massive company and is now disrupting medical technology! Michael Cetta, a physician and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in emergency medicine, shares his journey from leading MEP, an emergency medicine group that grew to 10 locations and 300 clinicians, to merging with US Acute Care Solutions. He discusses the strategies used during the exit process, the importance of partner alignment, and the balance between clinical practice and business leadership. Michael also reveals creative, albeit unconventional, business development tactics for getting in front of hospital CEOs. He emphasizes the power of building relationships and word-of-mouth referrals, particularly in the healthcare industry. The conversation shifts to Michael's latest venture, Crimson Scientific, a company aiming to revolutionize EKG technology, which he was inspired to start after a personal tragedy. Michael also touches upon the lessons learned from his previous entrepreneurial experiences and the surprising similarities between being an ER doctor and an entrepreneur. Takeaways: Prioritize Partner Alignment and Character: When building a partnership or team, focus on bringing in individuals who share the same vision, priorities, and character. Strong relationships and alignment among partners can lay an excellent foundation for success and smoother transactions. Explore All Strategic Alternatives: Before making a major decision like a merger or acquisition, thoroughly research and consider all possible alternatives, such as being an M&A leader, merging with other local groups, or remaining independent. Evaluate the pros and cons of each option. Balance Economic Goals with Principle: When considering lucrative opportunities like acquisitions, weigh the purely economic benefits against your principles and long-term vision for the company and its ownership structure. Maintaining some equity in a new entity can be more valuable than a full cash exit if continued ownership and growth are priorities. Build Relationships Through a "Ground Game": For business development, especially in industries like healthcare, prioritize building genuine relationships through personal interactions and networking at conferences. This "good old fashioned ground game" and earning word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients is often more effective than expensive marketing gimmicks. Leverage Outsourced Expertise Strategically: Recognize when your internal team, even if highly skilled in the core business, needs support in specialized areas like finance, HR, and contracting. Partnering with an external company that feels like an integrated part of your organization can provide essential foundational support for growth. Embrace Calculated Risk-Taking: While medicine discourages risk for obvious reasons, in business, the ability to trust your instinct, take calculated risks, and pursue opportunities with confidence is crucial for growth. Be willing to commit to a path but also be prepared to pivot if necessary. Apply Problem-Solving Skills Across Domains: The skills developed in one demanding field, like emergency medicine with its need for quick, definitive action under constraints with a team, can be highly transferable to entrepreneurship. The ability to work towards a goal with limited resources and a team is valuable in both scenarios. Quote of the Show: "As an ER doc, you're presented with a problem in front of you. There's a finite number of resources you have to tap into and a timeline that you have to accomplish, either stabilize the patient or send them to the next level of care. So you have to work with a team, quickly, definitively, within certain guidelines, and get to a goal. And that's very much how entrepreneurship works. You have constraints, you have a goal, you need to get everyone aligned and pointed in the same direction." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcetta/ Website: https://www.crimsonscientific.com/ Email Address: michael@crimsonscientific.com Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/Wslt5akqGpI…
What’s it really like to record a podcast from Mount Everest Base Camp in Tibet, China? 🏔️ Join Steven Pivnik, host of the Built to Finish Podcast, as he takes you behind the scenes of his mountaineering journey—answering YOUR questions from 17,000 feet up! In this high-altitude episode, Steven reveals: ✔️ His future adventure goals and climbing bucket list ✔️ The latest gear upgrades and how he packs for Everest ✔️ Acclimatization strategies that actually work ✔️ What it’s like working with guiding companies ✔️ The physical + mental training needed to take on big mountains ✔️ Hygiene, logistics, cost breakdowns, and personal stories from the climb ✔️ Real talk about fear, motivation, and what drives him to keep going Whether you're planning your own expedition, love extreme adventures, or just want an inside look at the Everest experience—you don’t want to miss this! Quote of the Show: "If you envision something clearly and consistently, you actually subconsciously program yourself to take all the necessary actions and make the right decisions to move toward that goal. In my mind, I've been at the top of Everest thousands of times." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenpivnik/ Website: https://www.acresis.com/ Instagram: @stevenpivnik Shoutouts: Alpenglow Expeditions: https://alpenglowexpeditions.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/_WRUhJSpmFY…
Louise McEvoy, a motivational speaker, Everest Summitter, and the Vice President of US Channel Sales at Trend Micro, shares her inspiring 20-year journey to summiting Mount Everest, detailing the challenges, rigorous training, and mountaineering experiences that shaped her path. She also discusses the importance of preparedness and the risks associated with high-altitude climbing, including close encounters with avalanches and witnessing fatalities. Shifting to her professional role, Louise explains the critical landscape of cybersecurity, advising on how organizations and individuals can protect themselves from increasing threats. She touches upon the relevance of the 'Blue Ocean Strategy' book in helping businesses differentiate themselves in competitive markets. Louise concludes with career advice and reflections on managing extreme challenges alongside a demanding career. She invites listeners to follow her journey on LinkedIn and Instagram. Takeaways: Build Gradually Towards Your Goals: Louise highlights that achieving big goals like summiting Everest doesn't happen overnight; it requires years of preparation, building muscle memory, and overcoming various challenges. This approach can be applied to business and personal goals. Prepare for Adversity: Louise's experiences emphasize the importance of being prepared for unexpected challenges, be it on mountains or in business. Always have a contingency plan and be ready to adapt. Stay Fit and Healthy: One controllable aspect of preparation is physical fitness. Always strive to be in the best shape possible to handle both predictable and unpredictable stress. Embrace Teamwork and Support: The importance of a supportive team is a recurring theme. Build relationships and support networks that can help you achieve your goals. Be Vigilant Against Scams: In cybersecurity, taking measures such as pausing to verify communications before taking action and setting up family passwords can protect against scams and fraud. Think Differently: The 'Blue Ocean Strategy' encourages thinking differently to stand out in a crowded market. Explore unique angles or approaches to solve problems or serve customers better. Cherish Milestone Moments: Louise regretted not fully appreciating her time at the summit of Everest. In any pursuit, especially after significant effort, take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate your achievements. Quote of the Show: "Don’t project into the future thinking about your next climb. Enjoy this climb. Absorb every single moment. Even though you’ll be there for seven weeks, which sounds like a long time, it goes by so quickly." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/llmcevoy/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theclimbingexecutive/ Website: https://www.trendmicro.com/en_us/business.html Book Link: “Blue Ocean Strategy” - https://a.co/d/8hYBbY4 Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/LRAK2hxUD6U…
Jenn Drummond, a world record holder for being the first female to climb the second-highest summits on each of the seven continents, including K2. Jenn is also an international speaker, author of 'Break Proof,' host of the 'Seek Your Summit' podcast, and the founder of Clearwater Wealth Management. She shares her experiences of surviving a near-fatal car accident, which reshaped her perspective on fear and personal limitations, prompting her pursuit of monumental goals. Jenn discusses key moments like dealing with illness during her K2 ascent, the challenges and triumphs of her four-year journey to climb the second seven summits, and her entrepreneurial journey. Additionally, she offers advice on resilience, both in mountaineering and business, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing people over peaks, and talks about blending family life with her ambitious goals. Takeaways: Resilience is Key: Resilience is essential for achieving goals and overcoming obstacles in both life and business. Building and practicing resilience helps navigate challenges and reach desired outcomes. Break Down Large Goals: Breaking down big goals into smaller, manageable parts creates a sense of accomplishment and helps maintain motivation throughout the journey. People Over Peaks: Prioritizing people and relationships over personal achievements leads to deeper connections and more sustainable success, especially in business and leadership. Embrace Mistakes: Mistakes are inevitable and can be costly, but how you respond makes all the difference. Offering grace and support builds trust and strengthens team resilience. Continuous Preparation: Thorough preparation can ease anxiety and boost confidence. Whether in personal endeavors or professional tasks, careful planning leads to better performance. Set Audacious Goals: Setting bold, ambitious goals can inspire commitment and drive. Aiming high opens the door to extraordinary accomplishments. Find Your 'Why': Having a clear and powerful personal motivator provides the energy and purpose needed to pursue and overcome significant challenges. Quote of the Show: “People over peaks. Make you you’re taking care of your people and not putting the summit ahead of them.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-drummond/ Personal Website: https://www.jenndrummond.com/ Company Website: https://clearwaterwealthmgt.com/ Book Link: https://a.co/d/bHsUw51 Podcast: https://www.jenndrummond.com/podcast-page Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/TQ0dCqsQZF0…
Lee Coulter, the Global Head of Transformation at Chazey Partners, shares his extensive experience in leading enterprise transformations and exiting startups. Lee's discussion provides a deep dive into strategies for company exits, focusing on cap table cleanup, maintaining detailed documentation, and the significance of having a coach during the process. He also addresses the challenges posed by poorly documented equity agreements, emphasizing the necessity of transparency and regular 'closing book' practices for potential successful exits. Lee highlights the importance of restructuring management teams to align with company growth phases and why founders should often transition from their CEO roles. He further discusses challenges during earnouts and the need for precise, time-bound agreements. In his current role, Lee focuses on AI readiness for enterprises and executive coaching, offering his wealth of knowledge to help other entrepreneurs succeed. Takeaways: Start Early: Begin cap table cleanup and prepare for an exit at least two to three years in advance. Maximize all indicators for your final valuation and get to know folks active in recent transactions. Have a coach to provide objective advice and support throughout the process. Document Everything: Keep a solid data room and always be ready to close your books. Maintain a documented history of goals, achievements, and financials to build trust with potential buyers. Ensure every share and unit on the cap table has proper documentation and recreate or create missing documents. Integration Planning: Have a clear integration plan that takes into account the culture and workflows of the buying organization. Plan for 12 months to truly integrate into a new organization. Be prepared for contingencies and adjustments, as initial plans may change. Exit with Earnouts: Earnouts should be clear, concise, and time-bound to no more than 12 months. Avoid long-term earnouts as they are prone to legal disputes. Ensure the management team can exit gracefully within a year to allow new ownership to take full control and implement their strategies. Honest Management Reviews: Conduct regular reviews of your management team and be honest about their strengths and the phase of growth the company is in. Do not hesitate to rebuild or replace management every 18 to 21 months to align with the business’s needs. Founder’s Role: Founders must recognize when it’s time to step aside and possibly take on roles like Chief Product Officer or Chief Customer Officer. It is rare for founders to be effective CEOs during all growth phases, so bringing in professional CEOs at the right time can be beneficial. Maintain Trust: Trust is crucial during exits and integrations. Respond promptly to data requests, maintain good document hygiene, and be transparent about any potential issues. This will positively impact the buyer’s confidence and the valuation of the deal. Quote of the Show: ”When I say typically, it's extremely rare when a founder is a good CEO. So, recognizing that you need to step aside and bring in a professional manager who's actually familiar with the things that need to happen during your growth phase.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rleecoulter/ Website: https://chazeypartners.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/MZ2WSH72Qok…
What are the key ingredients of a successful business exit? Marcus Wagner, financial expert and advisor, shares invaluable insights on positioning a business for long-term growth, making it attractive for acquisition, and executing a seamless exit strategy. He breaks down the importance of building sustainable revenue streams, hiring top-tier leadership ahead of time, and staying ahead with proactive due diligence. He also provides expert guidance for entrepreneurs looking to maximize their company’s value while avoiding common pitfalls in acquisitions. Additionally, the discussion dives into the crucial role of cultural alignment in post-sale integration and how it impacts employee retention and overall business continuity. Takeaways: Start with the end in mind: Define your exit goals early and build your business with long-term value creation in mind. Invest in the right talent: A strong team ensures your business remains stable and attractive during the sale process. Maintain sell-ready financials: Act as if your company is always for sale by keeping well-organized financial records, conducting internal audits, and preparing comprehensive due diligence documentation. Choose strategic partners wisely: Work with an investment banker who has broad industry connections and experience navigating both domestic and international markets for maximum exposure. Plan for a smooth transition: Prepare for post-sale integration by considering company culture and employee retention strategies. Understand your business value: Focus on sustainable revenue streams and strong customer relationships that enhance your company's valuation and attractiveness to buyers. Quote of the Show: “If you do it right as a founder, the process doesn't have to be scary—it can actually feel like the culmination of your life's work. After all, we pour everything into our businesses—our cash, our time, our stress—and if it's done right, that final lap toward the finish line can be a truly enjoyable part of the journey.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcushwagner/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/qap6ZB9dAks…
What truly makes a brand unforgettable—its visuals, its message, or the emotions it evokes? Sienna Roman is an award-winning business owner and designer and co-host of the podcast Process Makes Purpose. She discusses what makes a strong brand, the importance of consistency, and the elements that contribute to a compelling brand. Sienna shares her views on the strategic nature of branding and the impact of visual representation. She provides examples of successful and unsuccessful rebrands by major companies like Walmart and Jaguar. She also offers advice for startups on building authentic brands and handling rebranding efforts. Additionally, Sienna shares insights on common branding mistakes and the significance of metrics in measuring branding success. The episode includes a visual presentation on the influence of colors and fonts on brand perception. Takeaways: Maintain Brand Consistency – Ensure your brand is represented uniformly across all touchpoints, from social media to physical products. Communicate Genuinely – Build trust by staying true to your core values and mission, which fosters stronger connections with customers. Highlight Your Unique Value Proposition – Clearly communicate what sets your brand apart to develop a strong and recognizable identity. Invest in Professional Branding – Seek expert guidance to choose colors and fonts that effectively convey your brand’s values and message. Measure Branding Effectiveness – Use customer referrals and satisfaction metrics to assess whether your brand resonates with your audience. Be Human and Relatable – Focus on authentic interactions to enhance customer retention and foster long-term brand loyalty. Quote of the Show: ”As humans, we love authenticity. It's part of the reason I think social media is so huge. because people love seeing vulnerable people and their everyday lives behind the curtain. And so branding in one way is supposed to kind of keep that continuity going of the vulnerability and the authenticity.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sienna-roman-fusco/ Website: mozaic-collective.com Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GsWc_nOD1iU Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/M60msmUI49o…
Scott 'Kid' Poteet, a former combat fighter pilot turned astronaut shares his inspiring journey from struggling with motion sickness and fear of heights as a child to becoming a fighter pilot and eventually fulfilling his dream of flying on SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket. He also discusses his passion for endurance sports, having completed 16 Ironman triathlons, including the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. Scott details his unique educational path through an outdoor education program, the intense training required for space missions, and the pioneering work he is involved in with SpaceX's Polaris missions. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging one's natural gifts and forging a personal path to success. Takeaways: Embrace Your Unique Strengths: Recognize and leverage your natural talents and passions to create a personalized path to success. Prepare and Adapt: Thoroughly prepare for challenges and stay flexible in the face of unexpected changes. Effective planning and adaptability are key to success in dynamic environments. Overcome Personal Obstacles: Confront your fears and limitations, like overcoming motion sickness or fear of heights. Persistence in overcoming obstacles unlocks new achievements. Join Supportive Communities: Engage in structured programs or supportive communities, such as ROTC or endurance sports, to stay motivated and connected with like-minded individuals. Set Clear Goals: Establish specific, attainable goals—like qualifying for events such as the Ironman World Championship—to stay focused and driven. Build Meaningful Connections: Nurture relationships and networks, as demonstrated by collaborations with organizations like SpaceX. Networking opens doors to unique opportunities. Quote of the Show: “ We are all born with gifts, talents, passions, and perspectives. It’s just figuring out what truly motivates and inspires you.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-kidd-poteet-5a548610a/ Website: https://www.kiddpoteet.com/ Email: kidd@kiddpoteet.com Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/Lvgy-aXv49U…
Curious about scaling a tech startup, planning an exit strategy, managing remote teams, and growing a business? Kieron James is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in launching and scaling successful tech startups. Kieron shares valuable insights on exit strategies, emphasizing the importance of planning for an exit from day one and keeping organized records for a smooth due diligence process. The conversation also covers the challenges of evolving leadership teams as companies grow, as well as the differences between remote work and traditional office environments. Kieron also talks about his current company, Wonderful — a platform that utilizes open banking to make charity donations and small business payments more affordable and accessible. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or interested in the tech startup world, Kieron's experiences and advice will inspire you. Plus, get a sneak peek into his future plans, including participating in the New York Marathon! Takeaways: Maximize Exit Strategies: Plan your exit from the beginning by maintaining a database with all necessary documents for due diligence. This proactive approach saves time and reduces stress when selling the business. Always Be Organized: Keep your corporate governance, contracts, and other essential documents well-organized and easily accessible. Being prepared helps you handle unexpected opportunities or challenges smoothly. Utilize Technology: Streamline business processes with technology, from digital document storage to advanced payment systems. This increases efficiency and reduces manual work. Be Transparent: Foster trust and alignment by maintaining clear communication with your team, especially during critical phases like due diligence or company restructuring. Clear Career Trajectories: Ensure your team has clear career growth paths. Regularly communicate opportunities for advancement to keep them motivated and aligned with company goals. Leverage Open Banking: Adopt open banking solutions in the payment sector to reduce transaction costs and improve payment process efficiency, benefiting both your business and stakeholders. Adapt to Remote Work Benefits: Embrace remote work's benefits, such as increased productivity and access to a global talent pool. Consider hybrid models or occasional in-person meetings for effective collaboration and team bonding. Quote of the Show: “ One of the bits of advice that I give people is even before you start thinking about setting up a business, if your plan is long term to exit, be thinking about that on day one.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieronjames/ Company Website: https://wonderful.co.uk/ Personal Website: https://kieron.net/ Podcast: https://kieron.net/tag/podcasts/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/6LOrT_UQIrI…
As a CEO, how important is it to have a deep, comprehensive understanding of every aspect of your business, and how does that impact decision-making? Frank Gazzillo, a serial entrepreneur and CEO of Accurate Neuromonitoring, discusses his journey from chiropractor to successful business owner, having built and scaled multiple companies. Frank shares his experience selling his business to a private equity firm, emphasizing the importance of transparency, preparation, and a deep understanding of your business. He also highlights the value of working with investment bankers during the sales process, as well as the complexities of acquisitions, including challenges in due diligence and post-acquisition integration. Throughout the interview, Frank underscores the importance of recognizing personal strengths and weaknesses, implementing effective management practices, and maintaining clear financial records. Takeaways: Understand and Know Your Business Inside and Out: As Frank emphasizes, it's crucial to understand every aspect of your business, including your weaknesses. Spend time in areas where you’re not naturally strong to ensure a comprehensive understanding of operations. Maintain Strong Financial Organization: Frank and Steven discuss the importance of clean, detailed, and understandable financial records. This ensures transparency and helps potential investors or buyers assess your company’s financial health. Employ Professional Support: Engaging an investment banker is invaluable. They help present your business in the best light, increase its valuation, and handle the complexities of the sales process, saving time and avoiding pitfalls. Be Transparent and Honest in Transactions: Be upfront about your business’s strengths, weaknesses, and intentions for selling. Transparency builds trust and facilitates smoother negotiations and due diligence. Prepare Thoroughly Before Selling: Ensure all necessary documentation and processes are in place before going to market. Well-documented processes and comprehensive financial records make your business more attractive to buyers. Stay True to Your Core Competencies: Frank notes that some founders may be better suited to roles other than CEO after an acquisition. Assess your strengths and align your role with what you do best to continue adding value. Clarify Your Reasons for Selling: Have a clear, rational reason for selling your business. This clarity guides decision-making and provides a solid foundation for negotiation, ensuring deals are meaningful and efficient. Quote of the Show: “You really have to know your business inside and out.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-gazzillo-818a1939/ Website: https://www.accurateneuromonitoring.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/c9VX7ZynwI0…
How can leadership, strategy, and adaptability shape both business transformations and film production? Nick Wilkinson, President of SNL Film and expert CEO discusses his career, transitioning from leading IT and private equity firms to a CEO role in a private company. Nick shares valuable insights on managing company transformations, navigating the sales process, and leading teams effectively. He also touches on his pivot to the entertainment industry, where he writes and produces films like Death on the Brandywine. The conversation emphasizes the similarities between building a company and producing films, particularly in terms of leadership, strategy, and adaptability. Takeaways: Consider a Leadership Transition: Transition to a role like Executive Chairman and hire an experienced CEO to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the company. Understand Management Styles: Recognize the differences between managing equity-backed and privately owned organizations to improve operational strategies and align expectations. Prepare for Future Challenges: Regular strategic meetings and presentations can help your team handle future challenges, such as acquisitions or high-pressure situations. Shift Focus for Growth: If relying on older products, consider diversifying business units to maintain current revenue while pursuing new growth opportunities. Maintain Organized Documentation: Keep accurate records, like shareholder agreements and financial documents, to simplify processes during key events like acquisitions. Manage Confidentiality Carefully: Share sensitive information only with essential personnel to minimize stress and avoid unnecessary speculation among employees. Continually Learn and Adapt: Pursue ongoing learning to enhance your skills, stay competitive in your field, and open up new opportunities for growth. Quote of the Show: “The nouns are different but the verbs are the same.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nwilkinson1/ Website: https://snlfilm.com/ IMBd Profile: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12642041/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/vUv46OHDCQs…
How can entrepreneurs and authors balance the demands of business growth and personal development while maintaining focus and productivity? Nick Hutchison, founder and CEO of the rapidly growing seven-figure marketing agency BookThinkers, joins host Steven Pivnick. Nick, also the host of the top-rated podcast BookThinkers: Life-Changing Books , shares his insights into combining entrepreneurship with personal growth. He discusses his experiences with SMART goals, overcoming business failures (including a failed app development), and his journey as a new triathlete and father. Nick also reveals the current services BookThinkers offers, such as short-form video production, podcast booking, and social media book reviews, as well as potential future ventures, including speaking engagements. Tune in for valuable advice on time management, business growth, and writing from a best-selling author and seasoned entrepreneur. Takeaways: Set SMART Goals: For every new project or book, set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound) to maintain focus and ensure actionable outcomes. Learn from Key Influencers: Identify books, podcasts, and resources from influential figures in your field. Implement lessons from these to create impactful changes in your personal and professional life. Follow Up and Learn from Past Engagements: Leverage past media features or collaborations as credibility boosters and build upon them for future opportunities. Continuously Audit Your Time: Regularly assess how you're spending your time. Classify activities as energy-draining or energy-boosting, then adjust to focus on high-leverage tasks that bring both joy and productivity. Document Frequently Asked Questions: If you often receive similar questions from your audience or clients, document your answers and consider compiling them into a resource like a book or guide. Validate Market Need Before Launching Products: Conduct market research before heavily investing in a new product or service. Engage potential users to gather insights and tailor your offering to meet their needs. Survey Your Community: Regularly survey your community or target audience to understand their challenges and needs. Use their feedback to inform content creation, product development, and service offerings. Quote of the Show: “Success is sometimes subtractive not additive.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bookthinkers/ Website: https://www.bookthinkers.com/ Podcast Link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bookthinkers-life-changing-books/id1517311450 Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/Rise-Reader-Strategies-Mastering-Applying/dp/B0CHF8VBYW Shoutouts: The 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss: https://fourhourworkweek.com/ 10 X is Easier than 2 X by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy: https://10xeasierbook.com/ Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell: https://www.buybackyourtime.com/ Think And Grow Rich by Napolean Hill: https://www.naphill.org/shop/books/paperback/think-and-grow-rich/ How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie: https://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho: https://a.co/d/dfqJbzy The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz: https://www.miguelruiz.com/the-four-agreements/ Rory Vaden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roryvaden/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/rI7t9yKJDnc…
What are the key strategies for navigating global market expansion and company acquisitions? Mark Garland, shares his extensive experience in global market expansion and supply chain solutions. Mark discusses his leadership roles at companies such as 4R Systems, Capgemini, and Accenture, highlighting the strategic decisions and challenges he faced. He explains the process of navigating a company sale during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering insights on maintaining operational focus, the value of good advisors, and the importance of having a contingency plan. He also introduces his new venture, Advance2 Global, aimed at helping companies expand internationally. The episode concludes with advice for founders on maximizing stakeholder outcomes during an acquisition. Takeaways: Surround Yourself with Great Advisors: Build a trusted team of experienced advisors, including an investment banker, legal counsel, and accountants, to guide you through the complexities of selling your business and securing the best deal. Keep Your Cap Table Clean: Maintain an accurate, well-organized cap table to avoid complications in negotiations and ensure favorable deal structures. Focus on Due Diligence Preparation: Organize all necessary documents and information ahead of time to expedite due diligence and build confidence with potential buyers, minimizing roadblocks. Have a Backup Plan: Be prepared for the possibility of a deal falling through. Keep operations running smoothly and consider other potential buyers if necessary. Maintain a Strong Company Culture: Involve key employees early, keeping them informed and engaged to maintain morale and ensure smooth operations during the transition. Demonstrate Value and Affordability: Showcase the tangible value and affordability of your product or service to make your business more attractive to potential buyers. Quote of the Show: “Always have a backup plan.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markgarland/ Company Website: https://advance2global.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/6KO7NxnAjxo…
Curious about how to build a successful business and prepare for a profitable exit? Tom Bonney shares his 30+ years of experience in the business world, from his early days as a CPA at Deloitte to founding two successful firms: Polaris Consulting and CMF Associates. Tom offers invaluable insights into the key principles of building a thriving business, including the importance of staying market-focused, aligning with the right partners, and learning from initial mistakes. He shares strategies for navigating the due diligence and sale processes, managing economic downturns, and maximizing business valuation. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a business owner preparing for an exit, this episode provides essential tips and real-world advice for long-term success. Takeaways: Navigate Sensitive Corporate Transformations: Address sensitive and complex issues during corporate transformations with expert guidance. Experience in advising middle-market firms can help entrepreneurs through critical phases of their business lifecycle. Plan with the End in Mind: Start a business with a clear, tentative end goal—whether it’s an exit strategy or long-term vision. This ensures alignment with partners and helps avoid disputes later by building a coherent strategy from the outset. Choose Your Partners Wisely: Partner alignment is crucial. Make sure all partners share the same vision for the company, and have open, early discussions about expectations and long-term goals to avoid misunderstandings. Establish Working Capital: Ensure sufficient working capital, especially in project-based businesses or during economic downturns. A financial cushion helps sustain the business in tough times and allows for continued growth. Recurring Revenue is Key: Incorporate recurring revenue streams into your business model. Subscriptions or ongoing client relationships add stability to revenue and make your business more attractive to investors. Credit When You Need It Least: Establish credit lines when your business is performing well. This provides financial flexibility in case you need it during leaner times. Professional Advice: Hiring professional advisors such as investment bankers and M&A lawyers is essential. Their expertise can provide critical insights during the sales process and help maximize your business's valuation. Quote of the Show: "Your leadership team must be made up of A-plus players. When you have A-plus leaders, they can attract and recruit A-plus talent at the director and manager levels." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasbonney/ Website: https://www.cbiz.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/KM-axVjOphQ…
Jon Gilman, founder and former CEO of Clear Software, discusses his journey from founding his company to its acquisition by Microsoft in 2021. He elaborates on the challenges he faced, including the intense stress of managing and eventually selling his startup. Jon emphasizes the importance of having multiple potential buyers at the negotiation table and recounts the bittersweet moments when deals fell through. He highlights the transformation and stability his team experienced post-acquisition, the operations of Microsoft's Power Platform, and the profound support from Microsoft that allowed him to regain work-life balance. Jon also shares advice for startup founders about persistence and mental health, stressing the importance of not giving up and employing healthier stress management techniques. The interview concludes with Jon encouraging current entrepreneurs to persevere through their struggles, promising that light can emerge at the end of the tunnel. Takeaways: Don't Give Up: Persistence is essential for success as a founder. Even during the darkest times, it's crucial to keep pushing forward if you believe in your vision and its value to the market. Take Care of Mental Health: Entrepreneurship can be a long and strenuous journey. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation or physical hobbies, is critical for long-term sustainability and well-being. Engage Multiple Players at the Table: When considering selling your company, having multiple interested parties can create a competitive environment that maximizes the potential outcome for everyone involved. Consider Investment Bankers: While it is possible to handle acquisition processes on your own, going through a structured process with an investment banking firm can provide valuable expertise and potentially lead to better deals. Prepackaged Solutions for Enterprises: Offering prepackaged solutions to larger enterprises can simplify their decision-making process and streamline the adoption of new technologies, which can drive faster sales and deployment. Competitive Process to Increase Valuation: By fostering a competitive environment among potential acquirers, you can significantly increase your company's valuation and chances of a successful exit. Transparency with Your Team: Maintaining transparency with your team, especially about major processes like acquisitions, builds trust and keeps everyone aligned towards common goals. However, consider what information might be too stressful or unnecessary for everyone to know. Quote of the Show: “If you really believe in what you’re doing and that it provides value to your buyer, you just got to stick with it.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jongilman88/ Website: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/FUO9eQflH3A…
Ever wondered what it takes to build a successful SaaS company, scale it to new heights, and ultimately navigate the complexities of selling? In this episode, Steven Pivnik interviews Mike Saldi, founder and CEO of SCLogic, and shares insights from his 28-year journey in logistics and facility software. Mike discusses his reasons for selling SCLogic, emphasizing the impact of age and the relentless drive to grow. He stresses the importance of company culture, equity distribution, and open communication. Mike also dives into the role of investment bankers in optimizing the sale process, elaborating on the complexities and the crucial support from advisors. He touches upon his leadership style, challenges faced during the transition, and future growth under new ownership. Mike concludes by reflecting on personal interests and the evolving role he now plays after the acquisition. Takeaways: Cultivate Open Communication: Foster transparency and open communication through regular all-hands meetings and "Ask Me Anything" sessions to enhance trust and morale. Prioritize Customer Experience: Interact with customers to understand their needs, identify pain points, and use feedback to guide product improvements and increase retention. Strategic Planning for Succession: Plan for long-term goals and leadership transitions to ensure smooth succession and continued company growth. Invest in Experienced Advisors: Bring in seasoned professionals (e.g., CFO, head of product) for guidance during complex processes like mergers or scaling operations. Clean and Manage the Cap Table: Maintain a clean, organized cap table to simplify due diligence and avoid complications during major financial events. Value Your People: Recognize and reward employee contributions, sharing equity or profits to boost loyalty, motivation, and commitment. Continuous Learning and Flexibility: Stay open to new methodologies and adapt to changing business environments, engaging with your team and experts to stay informed about best practices. Quote of the Show: "I've always visited customers... You can't understand their problems unless you walk in their shoes." - Mike Saldi Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-saldi-5186053/ Company Website: https://www.sclogic.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/oySHZgcQ60s…
In this episode of Built to Finish, executive coach Pamela Singleton draws on over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience to share strategies for guiding businesses through key growth phases and successful exits. She covers the importance of a strong business model, recurring revenue, and a skilled executive team. Pamela also emphasizes the need for confidentiality during the sales process, effective cap table management, and the complexities of earnouts. The conversation delves into the emotional journey of selling a business and the role of private equity. Finally, Pamela introduces the CEO Project, a mastermind group designed to help CEOs scale by optimizing talent, identifying leverage points, and refining business processes. Takeaways: Strengthen your model: Ensure your business model is strong with recurring revenue and solid growth before considering an exit. Exiting without these key elements can make the process incredibly challenging. Build a strong team: Build an executive team that knows more than you do. Surrounding yourself with experts can enhance your company's performance and increase its value. Manage your cap table: Keep the cap table clean by managing the number of shareholders. This makes it easier to get necessary approvals during a sale and avoids last-minute complications. Ensure confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality during the sales process to prevent disruptions and manage competitive risks. Only disclose information to a select few until the final stages. Weigh earnout risks: Evaluate the pros and cons of earnouts. While they can be a tool for achieving desired valuations, ensure you have control over the factors that determine the earnout metrics. Secure your finances: Take a significant amount of money off the table during the first sale to ensure personal financial security. This will give you flexibility in case the future with new investors doesn't go as planned. Engage your team: Involve your executive team in the sales process as they can provide critical support and insights. This will also help to reduce uncertainty and disruptions within the team. Quote of the Show: “Change causes uncertainty, and people tend to worry more about things they don’t have control over than things they do.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-singleton-7312ba5/ Company Website: https://theceoproject.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/eSPoN2EvSkY…
Mark Kennedy, Partner at Red Strategy Group LLC, and a seasoned entrepreneur and advisor with over 25 years of experience, shares his journey from founding nine companies to selling his technology firm, Crown Partners, to Publicis Group. Crown Partners was named Strategic Acquisition of the Year in 2014 by the Mergers and Acquisitions Association. Mark discusses the key strategies that fueled his success, the importance of strategic partnerships, and the value of a strong executive leadership team. He also explores his current role at REDD Strategy Group, where they use agile methodologies to help growth companies optimize strategy, people, and execution, significantly boosting performance and value. This episode offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses while navigating leadership challenges and strategic pivots. Takeaways: Identify High-Quality Small Companies: Focus on identifying high-quality software companies and partnering with them before they get acquired or establish themselves in the market. Employ Effective Strategies for Maximizing Outcomes: Use strategies like retaining an investment banker, understanding market trends, and preparing for potential acquisitions to maximize outcomes during a sale. Pivot Quickly When Necessary: Stay flexible and open to pivoting your business model based on market conditions. Choose the Right Partnerships: Build strategic partnerships that align with your long-term goals, potentially involving partnerships or acquisitions that add significant value to your core business. Build and Evolve an Executive Leadership Team: As your company grows, ensure your leadership team evolves with key roles in areas like sales, architecture, and project management. Run the Business Like a Business: Maintain clear, transparent financial records, avoid mixing personal and business finances, and focus on legitimate business expenses to ensure credibility during potential acquisitions. Involve More People in the Strategy Process: Include more members of your organization in strategic planning to gain diverse perspectives and ensure everyone is invested in the company’s vision. Quote of the Show: “You have to fall in love with what you’re doing and to be really great at it and put the energy you need into it for a successful outcome.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markkennedydrive/ Website: https://www.redstrategygroup.com/ Shoutouts: Richard Hearn David Bennett Keith McFarland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithmcfarland/ Carsten Thoma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carstenthoma/ Rick McCartney John Garvin Brent Seaman Shannon Denton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannondenton/ Peter F. Drucker: https://www.cgu.edu/school/drucker-school-of-management/peter-f-drucker/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/3BImDgfd3v8…
Mark Peters, a seasoned pilot with over 30 years of experience in both military and commercial aviation, reflects on his career journey, beginning with his training and instructor roles in the U.S. Air Force, and spanning his extensive tenure at FedEx, where he flew a variety of aircraft before retiring in 2022. He shares insights into the life of a FedEx pilot, discussing the unique challenges of night flying and the efficiency of the hub-and-spoke system. Mark also recalls memorable moments from his military service, such as leading a four-ship flyby at a hometown rodeo, and recounts the demanding aspects of military pilot training, including water and winter survival courses. He highlights a particularly poignant mission in which he delivered humanitarian aid to Novosibirsk, Russia, following the dissolution of the USSR. The interview concludes with a touching account of Mark’s final flight and retirement ceremony, along with valuable advice for aspiring pilots, stressing the importance of preparation, perseverance, and the roles of luck and timing in a successful aviation career. Takeaways: Acknowledge and Appreciate Service: Always take the time to thank individuals for their service, whether in the military or any other capacity. It shows respect and gratitude, which goes a long way in building rapport. Be Thoroughly Prepared: Like in aviation, being ready and prepared when opportunities arise is crucial. Ensure that you have the necessary skills and readiness to seize opportunities as they come. Build Relationships: Take the time to build genuine relationships with colleagues and others in your professional sphere. Knowing more about the individuals you work with can foster a supportive and collaborative environment. Stay Calm Under Pressure: In any high-stakes situation, taking a moment to breathe and assess before acting can prevent escalating the issue. Maintaining composure allows for better decision-making. Adapt and Be Flexible: Flexibility in your career or job duties can lead to unique and fulfilling opportunities, just as transitioning from the military to a commercial airline pilot did for Mark Peters. Respect Training and Preparation: Continuous training and preparation are essential. Whether it's for a career or a specific task, consistent practice and learning help ensure success when it matters most. Communicate Clearly: Efficient and clear communication, as seen in aviation, is vital. Whether it's a project at work or coordinating with a team, clear instructions and feedback can make all the difference. Quote of the Show: “So much of our success in life depends on luck and timing.” Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/090Iov9IpPM…
In this episode of Built to Finish, host, Steven Pivnik, interviews Tim Ash, a leading online marketer, keynote speaker, and author of Unleash Your Primal Brain . The discussion delves into Tim's background in cognitive science and AI, his insights into evolutionary psychology, and how these concepts apply to marketing, decision-making, and human behavior. Tim highlights the importance of habits, explains the brain's focus on survival over happiness, and discusses the ethical use of fear in persuasion. He also shares details about his new keynote, The Initiated Tribe Framework , which aims to tackle modern workforce challenges using principles of evolutionary psychology. The episode offers practical advice for entrepreneurs and underscores the importance of having a clear personal purpose. Additionally, Tim explores topics like tribalism, memory reliability, and bridging divides in our polarized world. Takeaways: Importance of Personal Purpose: Leaders need to be clear about their personal purpose. This foundational element not only improves personal well-being but also enhances motivation and productivity within a team. Viktor Frankl's concept of finding meaning in life is central to this approach. Leveraging Habits: Understanding that habits are evolutionary shortcuts can help leaders design environments and workflows that align with natural human behavior. By creating repetitive routines, teams can conserve cognitive energy and perform more efficiently. Combining Positive and Negative Motivations: Effective persuasion involves a balance of highlighting potential negative consequences (potholes) and positive outcomes (heaven). Leaders should not shy away from presenting the reality of challenges along with the benefits of solutions. Initiated Tribe Framework: To address worker shortages and boost loyalty, leaders should focus on creating a strong core culture and personally initiating team members into this culture, mimicking tribal bonding experiences from our evolutionary past. Optimizing Decision-Making Times: Leaders should take advantage of optimal decision-making times, ideally early in the day or after breaks when both energy and cognitive resources are at their peak to ensure better, more deliberate decisions. Addressing Stress in Leadership: Understanding that the brain is wired for survival over happiness can help leaders create realistic expectations and strategies for managing stress and improving mental well-being within their teams. Combating Tribalism in Organizations: Given that tribalism is hardwired into human behavior, leaders should work on fostering cooperation and understanding across different groups within the organization, acknowledging the evolutionary roots of these behaviors. Quote of the Show: "Care more and more about less and less." Links: Twitter: https://x.com/tim_ash LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timash/ Website: https://timash.com/ Book Link: https://primalbrain.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/DFxXBNhSAuo…
In this episode, host, Steven Pivnik, sits down with Mike Reilly, the legendary voice of Ironman, who has spent over 30 years inspiring athletes worldwide. From announcing over 215 Ironman races to coining the iconic phrase "You are an Ironman," Mike shares the stories behind these moments and the lasting impact they've had on the endurance sports community. He also opens up about his bestselling book Finding My Voice , which highlights powerful Ironman stories, and his role as Chief Motivation Officer at TriDot, an innovative triathlon training platform. Mike discusses his motivational speaking, the evolution of IronMan races, and offers heartfelt anecdotes about perseverance, community, and triumph. Takeaways: Draw Lessons from Life: Life is a series of lessons that can significantly enrich both personal and professional growth. By reflecting on experiences, learning from them, and using them as guiding principles, individuals can gain valuable insights that shape their future. Always Do the Hard Things: Success is often born from the willingness to face challenges head-on. Whether in personal pursuits or professional endeavors, taking on difficult tasks builds resilience and sets the stage for greater accomplishments. Follow Your Curiosity: When something genuinely sparks your interest, it can lead to a lasting commitment. Whether it’s a career choice, a new hobby, or personal goals, following your curiosity can lead to deeper engagement and long-term success. Get a Coach: Navigating complex challenges, like training for an Ironman or achieving any big goal, is much easier with the guidance of an expert. Coaches and mentors offer valuable insights, structured plans, and motivation to help guide you through the process. Keep Moving Forward: Progress doesn’t always happen in a straight line, and setbacks are inevitable. Each failure is an opportunity to learn and refine your approach. Focus on finding the next step, and keep pushing toward the finish line. Make a Positive Impact: A small act of kindness or support can make a world of difference in someone else’s life. Strive to leave a positive mark on others, creating a more connected and compassionate community in the process. Anything Is Possible: With determination and hard work, remarkable things are within reach. This mindset—one that is deeply ingrained in the Ironman culture—reminds us that no dream is too big if we are willing to put in the effort. Quote of the Show: “Failures can only take you to your next success.” Links: Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/IronmanTriVoice Personal Website: https://mikereilly.net/ Company Website: https://www.tridot.com/ Book Link: https://mikereilly.net/findingmyvoice/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 Transistor: https://podcast.stevenpivnik.com/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/pBEwqccQKcE…
In this week’s episode of Built to Finish, Steven Pivnik talks with Leo Fox, CEO and Founder of Vector Consulting Incorporated. Leo shares his journey from the intelligence community to founding Tenacity Solutions, a cybersecurity company that grew to nearly 200 employees before being sold. The conversation covers key business lessons, including the importance of hiring the right people, having a supportive peer group, and maintaining family involvement. They also explore the emotional and strategic aspects of selling a business, such as managing due diligence and aligning decisions with a successful sale. The episode concludes with reflections on the challenges and rewards of leadership. Takeaways: Prepare for Growth from Day One: Start acting like a high-growth organization from the beginning. Pivoting to high growth later is challenging. Have a clear vision and communicate it to your team from the start. Hire Good People: Surround yourself with trustworthy and competent people. Avoid hiring individuals who may bring in business but lack integrity. Be Ready for Transitions: Not everyone is meant to stay with your company through its entire journey. Some team members excel in different stages of the business, and recognizing this early can prevent toxicity. Seek Mentorship and Peer Support: Have a CEO peer group or mentor who you can confide in. It's crucial to have someone to discuss your challenges and share advice, as being at the top can be isolating. Strategically Plan Exits: When planning to sell your business, every decision should align with this goal. Tighten up operations, streamline cash flow, and avoid long-term projects that won't add immediate value. Keep Running the Business: Even during a sale, maintain business operations as if nothing is happening. Buyers expect stability and continuous performance during due diligence. Value Family and Trusted Advisors: Rely on family and close advisors for emotional support during stressful times. They can provide a solid foundation and keep you grounded. Quote of the Show: “Make sure you bring good people on your team, it’s key.” Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-f-fox-7797554/ Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vector-consulting/ Shoutouts: Jim Schleckser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimschleckser/ His Book: Great CEO’s are Lazy https://www.amazon.com/Great-CEOs-Are-Lazy-Schleckser/dp/0988309912 The CEO Project: https://theceoproject.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/-ijcEabOwLk…
In this special holiday episode of the Built to Finish podcast, host Steven Pivnik, reflects on the past year, expressing gratitude and sharing highlights from a series of extreme adventures and races. Key achievements include reaching number one on the Amazon bestseller list with his book Built to Finish and receiving a major endorsement from Mike Reilly, the voice of Ironman. The host recounts participating in Ultraman Florida, a grueling three-day triathlon, and the lessons learned from not completing the race. Other challenges include the Rim to Rim hike in the Grand Canyon, the Empire State Ride to End Cancer, and the Everest-ing event. The host also shares a close call at the Mexico-U.S. border and plans to join a Mount Everest expedition. Additional highlights include racing in the Survival of the Shawshank triathlon, an Ironman Florida that was disrupted due to logistical issues, and an upcoming training hike at Chimborazo. The episode concludes with reflections on personal health struggles and business achievements and a preview of exciting future episodes. Takeaways: Learn from Each Challenge and Setback: View every experience, whether successful or not, as a learning opportunity. Analyze what went wrong and how you can improve, using this mindset to grow and better prepare for future endeavors. Adapt and Pivot When Necessary: Be flexible and willing to change course, whether it's scrapping a completed audiobook recording to work with a notable figure or adjusting plans during an event. Adapting can create new opportunities and lead to better outcomes. Build a Support Network: Cultivate relationships with friends, family, and colleagues, showing appreciation for their support. Their contributions are often critical to your success. Persistence and Resilience: Keep pushing forward despite setbacks. View failure as part of the journey and setbacks as "unfinished business," vowing to return better prepared, which exemplifies a resilient mindset for long-term success. Quote of the Show: "Not every outcome is a win, but each one is a valuable lesson and a data point for how to do better next time." Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube: https://youtu.be/uQqF5eIGAf4 Shoutouts: Built to Finish : https://www.amazon.com/Built-Finish-Distance-Business-Life/dp/B0CB9HWSGW Mike Reilly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike71reilly/ | https://mikereilly.net/ Adrian Ballinger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-ballinger-57274/ Alpenglow Expeditions: https://alpenglowexpeditions.com/…
In this episode of Built to Finish, Steven hosts Mark Hodges, a seasoned entrepreneur and founding partner at Acresis LLC, who shares his expertise in building, exiting, and advising businesses. Mark discusses his personal journey and offers strategies for successful business exits, highlighting the importance of having the right management team, navigating competition, and preparing for the sales process. He stresses the significance of early planning, understanding valuations, and the crucial role of investment bankers. The conversation also covers managing emotions during transitions, talent and capital management, and potential challenges such as undercapitalization and governance issues. Mark concludes by offering insights into post-sale activities and advice on navigating complex partnership buyouts for successful sales. Takeaways: Maximize the Outcome for Everyone: When deciding to sell a business, focus on strategies that maximize the outcome for everyone involved. This includes considering factors like ownership structure and capital choice. Designing with the end in mind can significantly affect the success of your exit strategy. Build and Maintain the Right Management Team: Invest in building a strong management team. Surround yourself with talented and trusted individuals who can grow with the company. Ensuring you have the right people in key roles, like finance, sales, and operations, can dramatically improve your business trajectory. Seek Funding Wisely: If you aim to scale and eventually exit successfully, securing the right funding is crucial. Whether you're opting for private equity, local bank loans, or friends and family investment, be strategic about the sources and terms of your funding. Handle Competition Strategically: Understand your competition, but don't let it paralyze you. Focus on the quality of your product or service, and build a strong sales and executive team to create 'shock and awe' in the market. Sometimes, even providing prospective buyers with your competitors' information can demonstrate your confidence. Master the Valuation and Negotiation Process: Having realistic expectations about your business's value is essential. Utilize fair market valuations, discounted cash flow methods, and comparable sales data to get a comprehensive understanding. Hire investment bankers to assist with negotiations, and be prepared to handle due diligence thoroughly. Select and Manage Your Investment Banker: For businesses valued over $30 million, hiring a quality investment banker is worth the fee. They know the market, can connect you with the right buyers, and manage the complex sales process efficiently. Compete the selection of your banker wisely and manage them closely throughout the process. Plan Post-Sale Activities: Prepare for life after the sale well in advance. Decide whether you'll stay with the business, take on advisory roles, or start new ventures. Give yourself time to adjust and avoid making hasty investments or commitments. This ensures you're content and your wealth is well-managed post-sale. Quote of the Show: “Always design with the end in mind.” Links: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hodgesmark Website: https://www.acresis.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ghmiiaRwVtQ9kqqqvmVQY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-to-finish/id1781753842 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/665cacbf-79ed-4745-8856-1d8465943c65 Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/built-to-finish-5907037 YouTube https://youtu.be/65lZLQ56CIA…
In this episode of Built to Finish, host Steven Pivnik interviews Bill Thomas, the Founder and Managing Partner at Acresis. He has played a key role in the growth of high-performing companies worldwide. They discuss his journey in the advisory industry, including his experience with Equiterra, which he grew to $100 million before selling to KPMG. Bill shares insights on preparing for business exits, stressing the importance of strong financials, showcasing growth potential, and creating strategic value for acquirers. He also highlights potential challenges, such as key account management, intellectual property issues, and maintaining forward-looking financials. Bill offers advice on keeping a business focused during the sales process and strategies for maintaining confidentiality. The conversation also touches on the emotional challenges founders face when selling their companies, emphasizing the need for a supportive team. Takeaways: Solid Financials are Crucial: To maximize your exit, ensure you have rock-solid financials. This includes clear revenue streams, EBITDA, and excellent forward-looking financials. Make these the foundation upon which your exit strategy is built. Create Value for the Next Owner: Beyond strong financials, build a business with clear opportunities for the next owner to add value. Whether it's scaling the business further or opening new markets, leave something on the table that's attractive to buyers. Think About the Strategic Sizzle: Realize the importance of the story your business tells beyond just numbers. Strategic value, such as unique technologies or industry positioning, can be the sizzle that captivates potential buyers. Expect and Plan for Setbacks: Understand that setbacks can and will happen during the exit process. Prepare for them by diversifying your relationships within key accounts and maintaining excellent IP documentation. Anticipating bumps in the road will keep you ready to manage them effectively. Maintain Focus on Business Operations: Do not let the exit process distract you from running your business. The last thing you want is declining metrics during a critical negotiation period. Ensure your leadership team is robust enough to handle day-to-day operations effectively. Clean Up the Cap Table: Ensure your cap table is 100% accurate and fully documented, including all board minutes, investor agreements, and employee stock options. A clean cap table is non-negotiable for a smooth transaction. Manage Emotional Attachment: Acknowledge the emotional attachment you have to your business. Recognize that it's normal to feel this way but be prepared to make rational decisions that prioritize your financial and personal goals as well as those of your team and business. Quote of the Show: "The foundation of any successful exit is solid financials; once that's in place, the real value lies in whether you've built a business with a future, leaving room for growth and opportunity for a new owner." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-thomas-13982/ Website: https://www.acresis.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music Podchaser Transistor YouTube…
In the debut episode of the Built to Finish podcast, host Steven Pivnik sits down with Igor Yakushko, a seasoned athlete and financial expert. Igor reflects on his impressive accomplishments, including completing 35 Ironman triathlons and numerous ultramarathons. He opens up about the mental and physical challenges of endurance racing, the strategies that have helped him thrive, and how he balances his demanding role as Vice President of Apple Bank with his passion for health and wellness, including growing his own food. The conversation also explores the value of embracing the journey, setting achievable personal goals, and finding fulfillment both in athletics and in life. Takeaways: Set Goals and Deadlines: Establish specific dates for achieving key milestones. A fixed timeline creates urgency and accountability. Reflect and Adapt: Regularly review past performances, identifying what worked and what didn’t. Use these insights to adjust and refine future strategies. Plan Meticulously: Define a clear goal and build a structured plan to reach it. Break the goal into manageable steps and stay focused throughout the process. Prioritize Health and Well-being: Maintain a balanced lifestyle with proper nutrition, sleep, and recovery. A well-rested and nourished body and mind are essential for sustained performance and leadership. Embrace Challenges: Welcome difficult situations as opportunities for growth. Developing resilience helps in overcoming obstacles and building strength. Engage in Self-Talk: Use positive self-talk and visualization techniques to stay motivated, especially during challenging leadership moments or races. Meditative Practices: Engage in activities that clear your mind and encourage reflection. Whether through running, jogging, or other exercises, these moments offer clarity and mental rejuvenation. Quote of the Show: "You will likely fail at some point, but that failure won't define you. Instead, it shows you where your limits are, limits that you can push and expand. Ultimately, it's a journey that helps you learn more about yourself." Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/igor-yakushko/ Website: https://www.applebank.com/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music Podchaser YouTube…
Welcome to Built to Finish! Join host, Steven Pivnik, each week as he explores the journeys of audacious goal setters. This includes experienced Founders, CEOs and entrepreneurs sharing pivotal moments that propelled their success. We’ll also be talking with endurance athletes who push the limits of physical and mental ability. This show is brought to you by Acresis — offering tailored, high-impact advisory services to help founders get to their finish line with a strategic acquisition or majority investor recapitalization.…
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