M&A Launchpad

Roll-Up in the HVAC Industry with Jordan Hammond

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome special guest Jordan Hammond. Jordan shares his journey from experiencing the failure of his first business to building a successful business through strategic acquisitions.
After a successful second start-up, Jordan decided that rather than deploying his cash into real estate, as many of his friends did, he would pursue the M&A industry. The discussion touches on the rollup strategy he employed, the challenges of integrating new businesses, and the transformational growth achieved. The roll-up strategy is seen as a great way to quickly and efficiently grow the top line in order to become a larger force in the market. On top of growing through acquisition, Jordan discusses his organic growth strategy that he is currently focused on to reach the next level.
 
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
 
· Wealth Preservation vs Growth
· Roll-Up Strategy
· Gaining a Competitive Advantage
You can connect with Jordan by LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-hammond-9a79562a/
Additional Resources: · Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube · Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com
· Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

Ups & Downs of the CEO Life with Steve Divitkos

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome special guest Steve Divitkos, discussing the challenges of launching and growing a search fund. Steve shares his experiences as a first-time CEO, the emotional toll, strategic decisions, and the eventual exit from his company.  Steve dives deep into what it’s like to be a CEO.  For example, the challenges he faced around the perception of young CEOs, as well as the decision process between firing and hiring top talent.  At the end of the day, Steve states that the path to growth is not line, smooth, nor easy. 
 
The podcast also highlights Steve’s current venture, Mineola Search Partners, his own podcast “In the Trenches”, and his perspective on investing in search funds. Steve is the type of person that, if you are looking to acquire a business, or invest in one, is a great guide/resource to talk to.  The episode provides valuable insights if you are looking to acquire a business or invest in a search fund. 
 
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
 
Life as a CEO
Self-Awareness as a Business Leader
The ETA Community 10 Years Ago
Leveraging Your Network
 
You can connect with Steve by his podcast: In The Trenches Podcast - Apple Podcasts
 
Additional Resources:
Request a complimentary consultation with an M&A or financial expert for Quality of Earnings from O'Connell Advisory Group. - https://oconnelladvisorygroup.com/contact/
Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube
Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

Data Drives Businesses - How Ned MacPherson Capitalized on Strategic Insights

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa & Casey Minshew interview Ned MacPherson, who shares his compelling journey of bootstrapping a business from scratch, scaling it rapidly, and eventually exiting to a private equity firm.
Ned, who has a background in statistics, brought these skills he gained in college and applied them to his love and desire for entrepreneurship.  Ned started a few ventures after graduating, and after several attempts at building companies, he finally settled on a data analytics company. After scaling the company, Ned was able to take his first exit with a PE firm.  He debunks many stereotypes that people have when talking about the troubles of working with bigger PE firms, and highlights his good experience while selling.  Ned highlights the importance of focus, understanding market gaps, effective deal structuring, and maintaining a profitable growth model.
He also shares valuable advice on navigating private equity acquisitions, the significance of rolling forward equity, and the role of cultural integration in successful M&A deals. Tune in to learn from Ned’s experiences and strategies for entrepreneurial success.
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
How Everything in Life is Data-Driven
Tips on Exiting a Business
Working with Private Equity in an Acquisition
You can connect with Ned by LinkedIn or email: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ned-macpherson or at ned@powerdigital.com
 
Additional Resources:
Request a complimentary consultation with an M&A or financial expert for Quality of Earnings from O'Connell Advisory Group - https://oconnelladvisorygroup.com/contact/
Ready to network with experts in the M&A Industry?  Whether you're looking to buy your first business, or a seasoned buyer or investor, find your M&A tribe at the M&A Launchpad Conference
Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube
Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad
 

Turning Around a 100+ Year Old Razor Company with Jens Grudno

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew interview Jens Grudno, delving into his journey from a finance background to acquiring and turning around a struggling German manufacturing business. Jens shares the challenges and intricacies of transitioning from corporate roles to entrepreneurship, including the complex process of acquiring a division of a bankrupt company, managing legacy issues, and scaling the business. Jens now currently owns and operates DOVO, a 100+ year old German straight-razor company with an incredible brand and story.  Although the business ran into turbulent times, Jens recognized the opportunity and acquired the business a few years back. 
 
The discussion covers Jens' unique market in traditional straight razors, his strategic decision-making, and key lessons from his four-year experience. The episode offers valuable insights into the manufacturing sector, turnaround strategies, and the importance of tenacity in business.
 
Jens is an open book, and if you want to learn more about his story or are interested in talking through a potential acquisition or investment, he encourages you to contact him!
 
For 25% off DOVO Razors or Kits - Discount Code: LAUNCHPAD
 
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
 
Turning Around a Distressed Business
How Brand Appearance Matters
Challenges of Operating a Business
The Razor Market
 
You can connect with Jens by email: j.grudno@dovo.com
 
Additional Resources:
Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube
Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad
 

Insights into Sell-Side M&A Transactions with Richard Parker

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome special guest Richard Parker. We delve deep into the world of M&A with Richard, who has successfully bought and sold dozens of companies.  Richard currently manages Roy Street Advisors, an investment banking firm representing business owners and buyers in the sale of companies.  Richard also provides great resources and courses on how to become an expert in the M&A world of buying good businesses. 
 
The episode also covers insights from working with notable figures like Ray and Devon Dalio, emphasizing practical M&A strategies such as building rapport with sellers, securing funding, and thorough due diligence.  The conversation touches on personal and professional growth, reflecting on experiences with industry leaders, and the essential role of operator relationships.
 
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
 
Making Mistakes in M&A
Art of Hiring Performers
Tips to a Successful Acquisition
How Richard’s Firm Can Help You Acquire
You can connect with Richard Parker by Website: richardparker.com
Additional Resources:
Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube
Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad
Meet the M&A Launchpad Community and The M&A Launchpad Conference.   malaunchpad.com 

Verify Business Earnings in an M&A Transaction with Patrick O'Connell

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome special guest Patrick O'Connell.  Today we are focusing on the role of a quality of earnings (QoE) in the M&A process. Patrick discusses the importance of conducting a quality of earnings analysis when transacting. The QoE is used to verify what the seller has told you about the business verses what is reported in the business.  The QoE is a great financial tool to establish facts, rather than opinions, for valuing a business acquisition. 
Patrick looks to empower entrepreneurs to buy or sell lower middle market deals.  We explore his role in evaluating business financial health and ensuring smooth transactions. The conversation covers practical insights on managing buyer-seller relationships, emphasizing working capital and negotiation strategies. The episode also highlights the importance of experienced advisory roles in acquisitions.
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
What is a Quality of Earnings?
How to Verify Business Earnings
Importance of Mediating Buyers and Sellers
You can connect with Patrick by LinkedIn or X: “SMB Deal Guy”
Patrick’s Firm: Quality of earnings service provider (oconnelladvisorygroup.com)
Additional Resources:
Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube
Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad
Join us at the M&A Launchpad Conference https://www.malaunchpad.com/

Strategies to Grow and Adapt as an Entrepreneur with Matt Pohl

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome special guest Matt Pohl, Founder of The ReWild Group. Matt shares his journey of transitioning from a corporate job to becoming a business owner. This discussion covers Matt's decision to buy a lifestyle business, the eventual realization of the true value of his company, and how he managed to grow and sell it. Matt highlights the significant mindset shift required to transition from a technician to a business owner dedicated to growth and scaling.
He also emphasizes the importance of understanding business valuation and creating transferable value. Furthermore, Matt discusses his current involvement with multiple ventures, including car washes and a welding business, and his partnership in a business consulting initiative, showcasing the diverse paths an entrepreneur can take post-exit. In this podcast episode, we discuss:
Growth Strategies for Business Owners
Process of Selling the Business
Changing Mindset to Succeed
Adjusting to New Ownership
Check out The ReWild Group: The ReWild Group: Business Growth Framework for Organizational ReWilding Additional Resources:
Connect with your like-minded community! Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference happening October 26, 2024 in Chicago http://malaunchpad.com/
Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit https://equity-launchpad.com/

Tech to a Construction Acquisition with The Stone Man

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa interview Alan Lockridge about his journey from tech consulting to purchasing and running 'The Stoneman,' a business specializing in hardscapes. The discussion covers Alan's three-year search for the right business, which was affected by COVID-19, and his eventual acquisition strategy. He shares insights on the similarities between his tech-focused background and his new blue-collar business, the importance of structured deals, and the benefits of leveraging relationships in acquisitions. Alan explains how he successfully transitioned into this new industry, made incremental improvements, and maintained a steady business. Listeners are also given a glimpse into his future plans and key takeaways from his entrepreneurial journey.
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
 
COVID Effect on ETA
Acquisition & Operation Tips
Learning a New Industry
You can connect with Alan by email: alan@stonemanrocks.com
Additional Resources:
Join our M&A Community at The M&A Launchpad Conference on October 26th in Chicago, Il.  https://www.malaunchpad.com  
Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube
Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

Sourcing to Closing an E-Commerce Acquisition in 9 Days with Bryan Dunn

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome special guest Bryan Dunn.  Bryan talks about his journey from helicopter pilot in the military, to working at Boeing and other companies, and now working at a manufacturing company while simultaneously buying his own business.  Bryan currently owns an ecommerce brand, selling a product called the Pursuit Goal Journal.  This product allows people to define and achieve their goals.  After attaining an MBA from Drexel, he stumbles upon ETA (entrepreneurship through acquisition) and decides this is the route he wants to take for his career.  Learn about the transition from big corporate America to the small business landscape. There are many challenges that come with acquiring a business, whether it is an asset-rich manufacturing business, or an ecommerce brand.  Bryan dives into the highs and lows of operating his brand, and what advice he would have for others thinking of doing the same. 
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
Military Mindset in ETA
Struggles of an Ecommerce Business
Balancing Life as a Business Owner
Finding a Higher Calling as an Entrepreneur
 
You can connect with Bryan by Email: Bryandunn06@gmail.com
Get the Pursuit Goal Journal here: At EVRIM, we design products that help you pursue your biggest goals – pursuitgoaljournal
 
Additional Resources:
Enjoying this podcast? Join our community at the M&A Launchpad Conference happening October 26th in Chicago. https://www.malaunchpad.com/chicago-conference-2024 
Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube
Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad
 

Private Equity to Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition with Niklas James

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome special guest Niklas James, who shares his journey from Norway to the U.S., where he began his career at Bain & Co., gaining valuable experience in the private equity due diligence process. After several years in finance, Niklas pursued his MBA at Harvard Business School, which sparked his interest in buying a small business. Inspired by friends in the Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) community, Niklas became a self-funded searcher, and he dives into what it takes to succeed in this model.
Niklas discusses his first acquisition, detailing the criteria he sought in the right business, the challenges of taking over a company, and his decision to keep the seller on as president. He also shares the strategies he used to achieve growth, both organically and by adding new elements to the company.
 
Today, Niklas is the co-founder of Minds Capital, an investment firm that provides equity for independent sponsor-led and searcher-led acquisitions. Tune in to learn from Niklas's experiences, from searching and acquiring to scaling and leading a successful business.
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
Acquiring a Home Service Business
Seller Transition Strategies
Organic Business Growth Tactics
Private Equity Influence on Searching
 
You can connect with Niklas James by LinkedIn or Email: nj@mindscapital.co
 
Additional Resources:
Join the Community at The M&A Launchpad Conference happening October 26th in Chicago, IL. Get your Tickets at https://www.MALaunchpad.com 
Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube
Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad