Deal Us In

Mary Ellen Iskenderian of Women's World Banking shares her journey from traditional finance to leading global women's financial inclusion efforts. Drawing on 18 years as president and CEO, Mary Ellen explains how Women's World Banking evolved from its founding at the first UN women's conference to become both an NGO and an impact-focused asset manager.With hosts Penny Zacharias and Casey Nelson, Mary Ellen discusses how digital technology transformed financial inclusion during the pandemic, helping reach 86 million women with vital financial services. She reveals the $700 billion opportunity that financial institutions miss by not serving women as viable customers and shares insights on how gender-focused investment drives both social impact and strong business returns.Connect and Learn More☑️ Mary Ellen Iskenderian | LinkedIn☑️ Women's World Banking | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube☑️ Penny Zacharias | LinkedIn☑️ Casey Nelson | LinkedIn☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information

Hannah Schiff of Developing World Markets navigates the delicate balance between meaningful impact and competitive financial returns in emerging markets investing. Drawing on her decade of experience in impact investing, Hannah shares how DWM directs capital through local entrepreneurs who understand their communities' needs.With host Penny Zacharias, Hannah addresses investor skepticism by highlighting how impact is embedded in successful business models. She also reflects on inspiration from female leaders like Jacqueline Novogratz and discusses trends, including innovative approaches to help vulnerable populations build resilience against climate change through technology and targeted financing.Connect and Learn More☑️ Hannah Schiff | LinkedIn☑️ Developing World Markets | LinkedIn☑️ Penny Zacharias | LinkedIn☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

Hosts Casey Nelson and Kelly Wray invite three guests for their insights about how women in finance and law can advocate for themselves. Linda Filardi of Flagstar Bank, Jess Yovich at BMO Commercial Bank, and McGuireWoods' colleague Gretchen Townshend recall their own journeys to guide others. Among their suggested strategies: documenting accomplishments throughout the year, cultivating mentors, and getting the data that shows why people were promoted. They also remind women not to fall into the trap of thinking that self-advocacy is “bragging.”Connect and Learn More☑️ Linda Filardi | LinkedIn☑️ Flagstar Bank | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X☑️ Jess Yovich | LinkedIn☑️ BMO Commercial Bank | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | X☑️ Gretchen Townshend | LinkedIn☑️ Casey Nelson | LinkedIn☑️ Kelly Wray | LinkedIn☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X☑️ Subscribe

To underrepresented independent sponsors, Chelsea Celistan has a simple message: “There is a large market that you can do really well in. Full stop.”The head of Independent Sponsor and Company Direct Investment Strategy at Avante Capital Partners, Chelsea shares her encouraging vision in this conversation with host Phyllis Young. She also details challenges and strategies, emphasizing the need for discipline in finding the right deal, choosing the right partner, and creating value. Ultimately, “it's really just the people who are going to come in and grab the bull by its horns and kind of drive to make it happen. I think that's going to be who tends to win in this space,” she says.Connect and Learn More☑️ Chelsea Celistan | LinkedIn☑️ Avante Capital Partners | LinkedIn☑️ Phyllis Young☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

The two parties in the deal had different priorities, but Kenna Craver managed conflict by leveraging a superpower unique to women in private equity: fostering collaboration and trust. The founder and managing partner of private investment firm Kamel Capital, Kenna encourages women in finance to recognize those strengths and more, including being “queens of multitasking.” In this conversation with host Phyllis Young, she also advises women not to wait for permission to take their seat at the table. “Build your skills and network strategically and be relentless in pursuing your goals,” she suggests.Connect and Learn More☑️ Kenna Craver | LinkedIn☑️ Kamel Capital☑️ Phyllis Young☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

From mentors to hybrid work schedules to checking biases at the door, strategies for navigating workplace challenges are accessible but often require buy-in from colleagues and management.Five McGuireWoods women attorneys at various stages of their careers offer these insights and more in this episode of Deal Us In. New hosts Kelly Wray and Casey Nelson join frequent hosts Ann Terrell Dorsett, Phyllis Young, and Kelsey Hitchcock for a conversation about lifestyle choices and career trajectories of women in private equity and finance. Sharing personal and professional anecdotes, the hosts cover topics ranging from taking care of children and aging parents to leveraging technology for on-the-job flexibility. Connect and Learn More☑️ Ann Terrell Dorsett☑️ Phyllis Young☑️ Kelly Wray☑️ Casey Nelson☑️ Kelsey Hitchcock☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

An entrepreneur's business is like their first-born child, says Sheila Emami. Her mission is to help them grow. The vice president of St. Cloud Capital, Sheila explains the relationship-driven approach that St. Cloud leverages on behalf of small businesses and underserved communities nationwide. In this conversation with host Penny Zacharias, Sheila also discusses the importance of impact investing, promoting job creation, economic growth, and good corporate governance. For women seeking success in private equity, she stresses preparation and paying it forward so that representation in this arena continues on the upswing. Connect and Learn More☑️ Sheila Emami | LinkedIn☑️ St. Cloud Capital ☑️ Penny Zacharias☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

Purpose. Private Markets. Impact. To some, those are mere concepts. But to The Copia Group's Beata Kirr, those words are an investment strategy.In this episode of Deal Us In, Beata Kirr joins host Phyllis Young to discuss impact investing, particularly in private markets. Tune in as Beata discusses how impact investing can lead to higher financial returns, the importance of diversity in the world of investing, and how women can continue to influence the finance industry.Connect and Learn More☑️ Beata Kirr | LinkedIn☑️ The Copia Group, LLC on LinkedIn☑️ Phyllis Young☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

What do you get when you cross an electrical engineering degree with an MBA? An innovative and successful fund manager.In this episode of Deal Us In, one-of-a-kind venture capital firm manager SC Moatti of Mighty Capital joins host Kelsey Hitchcock to discuss how she carefully selects her investment opportunities, analyzes emerging challenges and issues in artificial technology, and shares her insights on the challenges women face in private equity and finance.Connect and Learn More☑️ SC Moatti | LinkedIn☑️ Mighty Capital on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter/X, & Instagram☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

Don't be deferential when you should be more confident. “Technical skills give you the confidence to speak up and take a seat at the table,” says Amy Weisman. On this episode of Deal Us In, host Penny Zacharias, Partner at McGuireWoods, is joined by mother-daughter duo, Amy Weisman, Managing Director of Business Development at Sterling Investment Partners, and Julia Weisman, Account Manager at Bloomberg LP. In a candid conversation, Amy, an accomplished private equity professional, and Julia, a rising star in finance, delve into their experiences in the finance sector. They offer insights into overcoming imposter syndrome, the power of networking, and the importance of striking a balance between work and personal life. Amy underscores the value of networking for career growth, highlighting Exponent Women, the organization she founded for women in private equity, while Julia emphasizes the value of mentorship and the role it has played in her career at Bloomberg. This episode provides essential guidance for women professionals navigating their careers in private equity and finance.Connect and Learn More☑️ Amy Weisman | LinkedIn☑️ Julia Weisman | LinkedIn☑️ Penny Zacharias | LinkedIn☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any...

The workplace has changed considerably in recent years, making arrangements such as working from home more common. However, navigating a career path while simultaneously raising a family can still be challenging, especially in the high-powered financial industry.On this episode of Deal Us In, host Kelsey Hitchcock, partner at McGuideWoods, welcomes guest Laura Redinger, Principal and Business Development Leader at Foundation Investment Partners, a private equity firm focused on acquiring niche manufacturers, high value added distributors, outsourced business service providers, and niche software developers.Tune in to hear Laura share how she made the transition from commercial banking to private equity, and how she balanced being a working mom in a primarily male-dominated field, as well as the lessons she learned along the way. Laura also imparts advice for other women aspiring to leadership roles in private equity, particularly those facing gender-related obstacles in their career advancement. Connect and Learn More☑️ Laura Redinger | LinkedIn☑️ Foundation Investment Partners | LinkedIn☑️ Kelsey Hitchcock | LinkedIn☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

If you could look ahead and see the future, and that future doesn't appeal to you, then you might want to pivot your strategy or your career aspirations. On this episode of Deal Us In, host Ann Dorsett, counsel at McGuireWoods, welcomes guest Meredith Carter, President and CEO of Edge Capital, a family office-backed specialty finance company outside of Philadelphia focused on providing asset-based loans to lower middle market companies.Tune in to hear how Meredith got started in asset-based lending and how she successfully transitioned from a career in corporate law to niche specialty finance. Meredith also shares strategies for helping women advance in their organizations and advice for women who aspire to have a leadership role. Connect and Learn More☑️ Meredith Carter | LinkedIn☑️ Edge Capital | LinkedIn ☑️ Ann Dorsett | LinkedIn ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

We see people succeed and wonder how they got there. But it's just as important to look at what they didn't do, as it is to look at what they did.On this episode of Deal Us In, host Xaviera Webb, an associate at McGuireWoods, is joined by guest Kristin Gunther, partner at Revolution Growth, a venture firm based in Washington, D.C. With over 15 years of experience in private equity, finance, and operations, Kristin shares her journey, her struggles, and her advice for women seeking to achieve success in the finance industry. Tune in to hear Xaviera and Kristin discuss juggling work and family commitments, the trade-offs of being a working mom, and ‘mom guilt'. They also talk about the character traits that have enabled Kristin to succeed in the high-intensity worlds of both private equity and venture capital, the strategies Kristin finds most effective in managing competing priorities, and the specific challenges unique to women in a competitive workplace. Connect and Learn More☑️ Kristin Gunther | LinkedIn☑️ Revolution Growth | Twitter/X | Instagram | LinkedIn☑️ Xaviera Webb | LinkedIn☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

Depending on where you work, financial institutions can have a churn-and-burn atmosphere. How does this affect work-life balance, particularly for aspiring female business leaders? Although previous generations did a lot of the heavy lifting in terms of overcoming barriers to female leadership, there's always work to be done.On this episode of Deal Us In, host Phyllis Young, a partner at McGuireWoods, is joined by guest Hannah Jordana, Senior Vice President of Commercial and Industrial Lending at Cadence Bank, to discuss women in the finance industry.Tune in to hear Hannah's journey and experience in private equity and finance and how she got involved in deal-making. Hannah and Phyllis also discuss some of the obstacles women face in business, how to address those challenges, and ways in which organizations can actively support and empower women to take on leadership roles in deal execution and decision making.Connect and Learn More☑️ Hannah Jordana | LinkedIn☑️ Cadence Bank | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X | YouTube☑️ Phyllis Young | LinkedIn ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

Most of us have experienced imposter syndrome. But when you're the only woman of color in a predominantly white, male-dominated field, it can feel like you're shooting above your weight.On this episode of Deal Us In, McGuireWoods associate Xaviera Webb talks to Alyssa Daniel, a private equity associate with PNC Mezzanine Capital, about Alyssa's journey into private equity, including some of the challenges she faced and how she overcame them. They discuss the role of mentorship, the need to advocate for yourself and the importance of making connections. Alyssa also shares some advice for aspiring private equity professionals.Connect and Learn More☑️ Alyssa Daniel | LinkedIn | TikTok☑️ PNC Mezzanine Capital ☑️ Xaviera Webb | LinkedIn ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicThis podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

For Tamika Tyson, problem solving has not only always been her greatest strength, but also the driving force behind her co-founding her own private equity firm, TGC Impact. With more than 25 years of experience in risk management and structure, Tamika has worked in banking, energy, industrial, and international markets and through five different economic cycles. What she heard and witnessed over and over were talks of a capital issue. She decided to take matters into her own hands. On this episode of Deal Us In, host Xaviera Webb, an associate at McGuireWoods, is joined by Tamika Tyson, co-founder of TGC Impact, to discuss the access to capital growth, booming business opportunities in the American South, and how other Black women and women of color can break into the private equity sector — and stay there!

On this episode of Deal Us In, host Rebecca Rheney, an associate at McGuireWoods, is joined by Aneesha Raghunatha, Vice President at Susquehanna Growth Equity. Aneesha has industry expertise across fintech and healthcare and currently focuses on data and enterprise software. Her current companies include Sievo, ZenQMS, LiveBarn, MediSpend, and more.As a woman of color, Aneesha talks candidly about the value of diversity in the private equity sector and what advantages it brings to companies and their potential deals. From beating imposter syndrome and thriving in the private equity sector to learning the “non-glamorous” basics and speaking up in meetings, Aneesha offers an inspiring mix of valuable insights and practical advice to listeners.

In this episode of Deal Us In, hosts Phyllis Young, Ann Terrell Dorsett, and Kelsey Hitchcock welcome guests Xaviera Webb and Rebecca Rheney to the podcast. As newer, younger members of the McGuireWoods team, Xaviera and Rebecca bring a fresh perspective to this series.In their first episode, the two McGuireWoods associates flip the script a little, asking the hosts themselves about their own careers, trajectories, and experiences as women in the private equity and finance space. From industry changes over the course of the last decade to building lasting relationships between women in this sector, Phyllis, Ann, and Kelsey dive deep into the industry secrets they feel have helped them find lasting success. This episode is teeming with advice for young professionals like Xaviera and Rebecca, who share openly about their own experiences in private equity and finance, and reflect on what it means for their budding careers.

Disruptions in the marketplace challenge even the most seasoned of leaders. Those who can pause and ask the difficult questions when the market is shifting will find they don't just have an organization that survives, but one that sustains and thrives. Deal Us In host Phyllis Young welcomes LaDawn Townsend, Founder and CEO of VOS Group, to discuss how to help leaders lead. LaDawn has spent over nine years coaching CEOs and Boards on how to build the next generation of leaders to become influential and authentic leaders. VOS Group is a boutique leadership advisory and strategic agency that helps leaders lead through tough situations. The vision for the company came together after LaDawn personally experienced a layoff that left her vowing to help recalibrate and drive a purpose-driven strategy for organizations. “​​Here's where the leadership lesson is: As a leader, you don't always need a PowerPoint or data, you need to trust your professional gut, your gut that your CV is built on your MBA,” LaDawn says, describing how she coaches clients and herself. “You smell smoke before a fire and that is the moment you need to just lean in and listen.” Throughout the episode, LaDawn shares real-life examples and situations that have shaped how she approaches leadership training to nurture organizations and develop strong leaders.

Are you making deal resolutions for the New Year? In this episode of Deal Us In, we welcome back McGuireWoods partners Jodie Herrmann Lawson and Susan Rodriguez to share their deal resolutions for 2023 with host Kelsey Hitchcock. Kelsey, Jodie and Susan explore what people should be thinking through as they approach deals this year. This includes more upfront scrutiny of I9s, when to consider indemnification provisions, and what you should do if your seller has an ongoing audit. Before you walk into a deal this year, it's important to understand what you should be prepared for, including how to navigate due diligence and any issues that may arise from it. Both Jodie and Susan agree that there's no substitute for good counsel that you trust. Having a trusted advisor in your corner who can look at potential roadblocks in advance may help you avoid a phone call to the litigator.

In this episode of Deal Us In, we welcome Renny Sie as she joins host Kelsey Hitchcock to discuss her role as Vice President of Business Development and investor Relations at Boyne Capital and her non-traditional track that brought her there. Renny Sie brings a unique perspective to business acquisition: her formative years were spent as a professional pianist. After following a path orchestrated by her parents, Renny realized her career as a professional musician was no longer sustainable and wasn't sure what tools she could bring into her next professional pursuit.  Highlighting her dedication, laser focus, and passion for relationships, Renny began the transition and returned to school. She now recognizes her unorthodox introduction is one of her biggest assets. "The leadership (at Boyne Capital) understands that diverse backgrounds can bring diverse perspectives, and providing diverse value adds to any deal." Kelsey and Renny talk about why representation, discipline, and emotional intelligence are so important and why acquisitions are a relationship business over a financial industry.  "There's the overall learning of a new piece that you're in each day of practice. But there's the melody itself and how you play different parts of it. In any deal process, there's new things that come up or new things or parts of the process that are more critical on a certain deal than in others — how you ‘soft play' or ‘soft pedal' certain aspects of communications." In this episode, Renny also shares advice she would give to her younger self and encourages everyone to celebrate the small wins.  

We all have that voice in our head: the one telling us we're imposters, we're not cut out for this, we'll never be able to catch up to the men in our industry. As a woman in investing, you might not ever have the same opportunities as the men out there, especially if you take time off for maternity leave or have a family at home to provide for. So it's no surprise that those voices in our heads can nag us into feeling incapable.  Avante Capital Partners' Principal* Amanda Kim knows these voices well. She started her career in a finance role at Goldman Sachs before applying for a position as associate at Avante Capital, a role far different from what she was used to.  “Even earlier this week, I said, Why am I doing this podcast? […] I don't know if I'm qualified to be on this podcast,” Amanda says. “However, you can work smartly, differently, and add value. Bring[ing] your genius to the table such that you are a force of nature [and] your company is never gonna want to let go.” Tune in to this episode of Deal Us In as host Ann Terrell Dorsett chats with Amanda about what it's like to work in a 100-percent women-led company and what it means to foster a diverse and welcoming workplace. Amanda also tells us why diversity is so important, and shares her biggest tips for making deals. *At the time of this recording, Amanda Kim held the position of Vice President at Avante Capital Partners.

In this episode of Deal Us In, Amanda Verner Thompson and Vasanta Pundarika join host Kelsey Hitchcock to discuss their now sixteen-year-long career together in investment banking. After working at the same healthcare investment banking group through several acquisitions, the pair eventually went to work for Matrix Capital Markets Group where they built a brand new healthcare group: Healthcare Investment Banking. From financial crises to the COVID pandemic, Amanda and Vasanta are no strangers to an unpredictable, unsteady environment. In fact, the two have grown to thrive on that, accepting challenge after challenge, adapting, and finding creative ways to still make deals for their clients.  The two talk about strategies for successful deals, as well as advice specifically for women trying to break into investment banking or simply trying to advance in their organizations. Together, Amanda and Vasanta have navigated the ups and downs of investment banking and have come out on top. They offer insights into the power of both having mentors and being mentors, finding camaraderie amongst a team, and growing those relationships. 

In this episode of Deal Us In, Katie-Rose Higgins joins host Ann Dorsett to share what it's like to be at the VP level working on deals in M&A. As Vice President at Falfurrias Capital Partners, Katie-Rose has a wealth of knowledge on what it's like to work on the deal-execution side of the industry.  From the intensive demands of due diligence to post close-strategy sessions with CEOs and board of directors, Katie-Rose shares a holistic look at the many facets of work involved with private equity. She also shares ideas for ways to encourage diversity in the profession. “I think it's important to be a little bit more open-minded and consider different backgrounds,” explains Katie-Rose when discussing how to encourage more women to get involved in private equity. “When we recruit, I view it as getting the raw materials right. For us, those are things like intellectual curiosity, how someone carries themselves, their maturity, their intelligence, and their ability to put the team first. These are things that don't change. They're consistent personality characteristics.”  In addition to advice on recruiting diverse candidates, Katie-Rose and Ann discuss how firms can support team members in building their networks and helping people feel included and supported throughout their careers.  For those weighing the pros and cons of returning to school to pursue an MBA, Katie-Rose shares how she approached the decision herself. She explains that when you're employed at a firm, you no longer need to have an MBA before advancing to the VP level.  

With 2021 in the metaphorical rearview mirror, it's time to think about what we learned last year, and the implications for the future. In this episode of the Deal Us In podcast, host Ann Dorsett sits down with McGuireWoods partner Phyllis Young and associate Kelsey Hitchcock to discuss finance and private equity trends they took note of in 2021. If there was one word to sum up 2021, it might be frenetic. It certainly kept the team on their toes.  Although it didn't necessarily look like the busiest year, Phyllis said the debt financing space saw a lot of activity from borrowers and lenders in 2021. Borrowers in particular also benefited from more opportunities in the energy markets. And there were also a lot of acquisitions, necessitating more add-on financing. Indeed, everyone noticed an increase in deal activity. The fluctuating state of the COVID pandemic played a role in the unpredictability of the year, as companies struggled to respond to ever-changing requirements, while also trying to keep employees on board.  The general consensus is that these staffing challenges will continue into 2022.  “It's hard to imagine the pendulum on a lot of these issues swinging seamlessly back to where we began in early 2020,” Kelsey says. “We're starting from a new normal, and that's an ever-evolving place.”  Listen in to hear more of the team's top trends, which ones they think will have an impact in 2022, and lessons they believe should be applied this year.   

Although women have made big strides in the private equity field, they are still a minority in workplaces dominated by men. In this episode, Melissa Mounce, Managing Director of Leadership, Talent, and Diversity at GTCR, shares her perspective on the impact and experiences of women in the industry – including some of the obstacles stacked against them. One of the most powerful ways women can drive change is by sharing their unique backgrounds and experiences with men. “Your perspective is important, it's valuable, and it may be somebody else's blind spot,” Melissa says. She also shares her own experience working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic and how, surprisingly, the forced move away from in-person communications expanded her access to executives and sped up recruitment processes. Yet, remote work has made office drop-ins and coffee chats with mentors and mentees harder to come by. Melissa provides insight into how female professionals can connect with leaders in the private equity industry virtually.  

Women have always faced intense pressure to prove themselves and prioritize the needs of others. While it may be more latent these days, the burden is still very much alive. “I really do think that it's worth recognizing that we still, in many ways, live in a patriarchal society,” says Blair Bishop, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. “A lot of us have internalized that we're supposed to be the perfect worker, the perfect caretaker to our aging parents, the perfect housewife, the perfect mom.” Working mothers can get the brunt of this, but all women feel it to some extent. And the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated long-standing gender-based adversity. Nearly two years into this global event, women continue to navigate increasing demands at work and at home. Blair joins us on this episode of Deal Us In to discuss how women can tune into their needs and learn to ask for help during this time. She shares advice for handling relationship conflict at home, accepting our imperfections, and expressing personal feelings in the workplace. On this episode, Blair also talks about knowing when to apologize and gives tangible suggestions for embracing self-compassion.

When you're a dealmaker, there's always a risk that you'll find yourself stuck in a complicated arbitration if things go awry. Regulatory issues can sneak up on you, so watch out! On this Halloween episode of Deal Us In, McGuireWoods partners and litigation specialists Jodie Lawson and Susan Rodriguez are here to guide you through the haunted maze that is dealing with business disputes. Jodie and Susan both advise digging into the specifics of your situation before deciding whether to handle it via arbitration or litigation. They say that a lot of clients think arbitration will be the easiest and cheapest way to solve a dispute, but that's not necessarily the case. Don't think you're getting a treat and stumble into a trick! Jodie and Susan also discuss the nightmares that Form I-9s can give you. If a company you're working with doesn't have a workforce that is fully authorized to work in the United States — or it hasn't made sure its employees filled out their Form I-9s correctly — you might be in for a long, conflict-filled road ahead. “It can be a real deal-killer: We've actually seen Form I-9 issues kill a deal,” Susan says. Tune into this spooky special to find out what skeletons may lurk in the arbitration closet, so you can be a better and safer dealmaker. With the right kind of legal support, you can unmask those legal monsters, and see that they aren't so scary after all. 

In order to fully cultivate the kinds of business relationships that result in lucrative deals, private equity firms are starting to look at designating a person or a team to source the most fruitful deals. For Meahgan O'Grady, who joined Palladium Equity Partners as Director of Business Development earlier in 2021, private equity is exciting because of the opportunity to work with founder-owned businesses that can really make waves. “It's such a special opportunity to speak with business owners in multiple different types of industries and talk about ways we could help them grow their business,” Meahgan says on this episode of Deal Us In. As the leader of the firm's business development team, Meahgan works with a range of stakeholders, developing and enriching personal connections. She believes women often have a special talent in this arena, and although private equity firms are increasingly seeking the benefits of diverse teams, there's still a way to go when it comes to helping women achieve their full potential in private equity. “Although it has evolved and gotten better by leaps and bounds, there's still room to grow,” she says. Meahgan thinks that women can continue to carve out their own niche in this industry by pushing through the difficult times and always advocating for themselves and others. Her advice: “Be the change that you want to see, and be that change from within. That's the best way to do it.”

People are returning to work in person at offices — but that doesn't mean everything is back to business as usual. On this episode of Deal Us In, employee benefits and labor attorneys Carolyn Trenda and Dawn Cutlan Stetter continue our two-part conversation about the impacts of the pandemic on the workplace, particularly for women.  One thing that has definitely changed: People don't want to go back to working in the office in the same way they used to.  “Very few employers are saying they're going to make people come back to the office five days a week,” Dawn says. “If you'd told me that in January 2020, I would have laughed at you.”  This shift in attitudes means new considerations for businesses. “What are the challenges moving forward in having at least a partially remote workforce? What does that look like? How do you accommodate employees who want a little bit more flexibility?” Dawn says. These questions are top of mind for Carolyn and Dawn, who advise employers on best practices when it comes to employee benefits and labor issues. In this episode, they also discuss how traditional benefits packages are changing, and what women can do to continue striving for success in a workforce that is still male-dominated.  

Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, employers have had to contend with a host of new labor issues. For McGuireWoods lawyers Carolyn Trenda and Dawn Cutlan Stetter, who focus on employee benefits topics and general labor law respectively, the pandemic has changed the kinds of questions their clients are asking. “COVID-19 came on like a tidal wave for employers. It challenged employers both large and small in almost every conceivable way,” Dawn says on this episode of Deal Us In, which is part one of a two-part interview with Carolyn and Dawn. Beyond dealing with transitioning to a virtual workplace, employers had to look at how to handle giving employees time off for COVID-19-related reasons, and rethink employee benefits generally. These issues may continue even as employees start returning to in-person work. “On the benefits side, the immediate issues were what to do with layoffs and furloughs. You had lots of employers trying to furlough employees and maintain access to benefits,” Carolyn says. “There were immediate COVID effects and challenges, but now we're dealing with more of the issues surrounding returning to work.” Despite the challenges, employers can navigate this new world with the help of advisors like Carolyn and Dawn, especially if they keep their employees' needs in mind, and do the work to help them. “As long as employers are acting in good faith and doing their best to comply with the changing regulations and statutes, there's a sense that some of this is going to pass,” Carolyn says.  

Women of color face pretty intense challenges when it comes to succeeding in the white male dominated fields of law and private equity. But Mirlande Telfort and Dami Oguntade have constantly hustled for success, and it has paid off with their successful careers at McGuireWoods. Though they have experienced challenges, they've both used their unique backgrounds to get a leg up in an intense industry, and now advise people in the same position to continue striving and breaking barriers.  “If there was one thing that I would say to a young lady considering whether or not to come into this industry, it would be: just do it,” Dami says on this episode of Deal Us In. “Because really, the only way we can have more women at the table is to have more women show up, and consistently keep showing up.”  Learn how Mirlande and Dami have made the most of their skills and backgrounds, utilizing the power of strong female mentors and role models and strong will powers to keep moving forward even when the path seems impossible. And if they have to be the trailblazers, they always remember that they'll be clearing the path for women of color behind them.  “If you stay focused on the rewards and really pursue something that you want, you can be successful at it,” Mirlande says. “It's okay to be the first because you'll bring along the second, third, fourth and fifth behind you.”  

Networking events can be challenging at the best of times, but especially so when you're the only woman in the room. It can feel like every set of eyes is on you, watching and scrutinizing everything you do and say. As 7 Mile Advisors' Ariail Barker points out in this episode of Deal Us In: “I'm still not seeing myself reflected in a lot of the other banks that I am coming across at networking events. So it does add an additional ‘eek' factor (for lack of a better word) going into some of these networking events, because it just feels that much more intimidating.” Rather than shrinking into a corner of the room to avoid standing out, do your homework and have a plan going into the networking event. Don't let a lack of confidence hold you back, says podcast guest Northstar's Managing Director Rebekah Elliot. “It's cliche, but fake it till you make it and become that person you want to talk to at a networking event,” she says. If you've ever felt like you could be better at networking listen to this episode to uncover tips and tricks you can use to feel more confident at networking events.   Featured GuestName: Rebekah Elliott What she does: As a Managing Director at Northstar, Rebekah is responsible for creating, implementing and measuring the success of their marketing and event strategies. She is a strong marketing professional with a MBA focused in Business Marketing, Statistics & Brand Management from University of Pittsburgh - Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business.  Company: https://www.nsgroup.com/ (Northstar)           Where to find Rebekah: https://twitter.com/RebekahDElliott (Twitter) | http://linkedin.com/in/rebekahelliott1 (LinkedIn)   Meet Your HostName: https://www.7mileadvisors.com/team/ariail-barker/ (Ariail Barker)  What she does: As the Director, Sales & Marketing at https://www.7mileadvisors.com/ (7 Mile Advisors), Ariail is responsible for building a centralized business development team, increasing private equity coverage, and updating the overall brand and marketing strategy.  Where to find her: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariail-siggins-67a0703a/ (LinkedIn)   Key PointsTop takeaways from this episode  ●     Do your homework — before an event. With so much digital information available, you can gather instruments to use to build a rapport quickly and move on to what you really want to talk about.   ●     Put the safety blanket down. When you walk into a room and you see someone in the corner on their phone, especially women, they come across as unapproachable. Even if you're uncomfortable, find ways of signaling to others at the event that you're open to talking and avoid giving the impression that you don't want to be there.  ●     You don't have to be the “fun killer” or the flirt. If you're the only woman in the room, you're already interesting and are more closely scrutinised than anyone else. You can build really strong relationships without being the “fun killer” who doesn't want to take a shot with the guys or playing up your sexuality.    Episode Highlights  [06:24] Don't get hung up on building rapport: While building rapport is important, Rebekah advises not to spend too much time trying to get someone to talk about their personal life — balance that with the business topics.  [08:23] Project confidence, even if you don't feel it: Rebekah wasn't always a great networker, she had to fake the confidence she saw in other networkers at events until she actually felt confident. Rebekah's advice is to get out of your head, don't focus on your shortcomings, and think more confidently. [14:32] Steer the conversation to where you need it to go: You have a finite amount of time to get the information you need so if the conversation is heading in a direction that isn't...

A time traveler from the 1980s would probably be shocked at how many women hold leadership positions in law firms today — and with scarcely a shoulder pad in sight, thankfully. But dig a little deeper and it's clear that progress doesn't equal parity. “About one in five c-suite executives is a woman, and only one in 25 c-suite executives is a woman of color,” McGuireWoods Partner Phyllis Young summarizes. “So it's a mixed bag: We see a lot of progress, we see signs that the glass ceiling is cracking, but it's not all where we want it to be.” It's a similar story across the financial and legal industries. For example, there are no all-male boards in the S&P 500: but the average number of women on S&P boards is still only 2.8, up from 1.7 a decade ago. It takes more than hiring one or two women and people of color to reach the kind of critical mass that delivers positive changes. And then law firms and other companies have to make an intentional effort to create positive work environments that meet those new employees' specific needs. For example, McGuireWoods Associate Kelsey Hitchcock says that mentorship programs and benefits specifically targeted to, say, women who choose to have a family show a level of support that can be the difference between someone staying or leaving. Fair or not, women at all levels of law firms — especially leaders — have to shoulder some of the responsibility for moving all women up the career ladder, says McGuireWoods Counsel Ann Dorsett. “Those who are in leadership need to turn the spotlight on younger women … And those in the middle need to support women leaders and help pull up the more junior women.”

Looking back at the history of working women makes it clear how far we've come as a society — and in law specifically — but also how far there is to go. As McGuireWoods Partner Phyllis Young puts it in this episode: “It's almost like we started with these bigger issues and it's gotten more refined as far as how we're treating women in the workplace.” After the 19th Amendment gave some women the right to vote in 1920, it still took an uphill struggle to make the law apply in practice for women of color. At the same time, women were fighting for equal pay. Legislation like the 1963 Equal Pay Act, the 1964 Civil Rights Act and Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments formed a solid backbone, as did cases championed by gender discrimination attorneys like late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. However, as McGuireWoods Associate Kelsey Hitchcock notes, not only does the gender wage gap still exist, it's even wider for women of color. Statistics also show that although more women than men are earning law degrees, more men hold senior positions in law firms. One place where women are given more than their fair share of work is at home. In heterosexual relationships, women are still doing most of the housework and childcare — a dynamic that has been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. But that's not to say there hasn't been progress. McGuireWoods Counsel Ann Dorsett says that 30 years into her career, she's finally seeing fewer women dropping out of the legal profession, and more women — and men — willing to help the next generation of female lawyers. “It has to be intentional: involving women in client meetings, placing them in higher roles. And I do see that intentionality.”

Halloween is a spooky season known for ghost stories and other terrifying tales. At first blush, recounting transactional law tales may not fit that bill, but this episode may just change your mind. While transactional attorneys see their share of intense and stressful scenarios, what litigators see a year or two down the road when the dust settles may just frighten you. The Terrifying Tale of Certain State Securities Statutes That Bring Heightened Damages Imagine this, you've prepared your case for months or even years, the exorbitant costs of litigation and discovery growing larger by the day, now you're facing the grim reality that not only does your client owe 15 million dollars, the judge just trebled the damages…and ordered your client to pay the opposing party's attorneys' fees. Tell me that's not enough to keep you up at night. Jodie examines the heightened damages provisions of certain state statutes related to securities deals and how they can be used as leverage by threatening litigation related to a stock purchase agreement. Therefore, when considering a stock purchase, it's imperative that you carefully contemplate the deal, the state you're transacting the deal in, and whether a state securities act could be implicated. Don't Let a Monster Get Into Your Deal Document DefinitionsSeasoned attorneys know that definitions in agreements are often fodder for litigation. One such definition is “proceedings.” Both buyers and sellers should negotiate carefully around definitions. Attorneys on both sides may end up going to the mat over what specifically constitutes a “proceeding.” Chilling stuff. The Hair-Raising Ordeal of the Release LanguageTypically, when you think about exiting an investment, you think about getting the broadest possible release. Think twice before you do that. There are times where, depending on which point and time you're at, there are different people and entities that are associated with the corporate structure. And, if you broadly include affiliates in a release, you can end up in a terrifying situation where you're later sued related to your participation in that potential investment. Worse, you may end up on the other side of an argument that you unwittingly, through your release language, released the other side from any and all liability. Listen to this episode for more unnerving anecdotes involving the employment eligibility of workers, including Form I-9s, and related PPP issues. Both Susan and Jodie always recommend having an eye for detail in these kinds of situations, check strict time frames, fill out forms properly, and use experienced deal counsel to help you avoid any scary situations.   Contact UsThank you for joining us at the table for this episode of Deal Us In. We invite you to join the conversation by using our #Dealusinpodcast on Twitter or LinkedIn. If you have a recommendation for an inspiring interviewee, a question you'd like us to ask, or a topic you would like to hear covered, or if you'd like to tell us about women-focused initiatives in the field, please go to our website at http://www.DealUsInPodcast.com (www.DealUsInPodcast.com). We look forward to hearing from you. This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

The private equity and investment banking spaces of the finance industry are often perceived as a ‘boys club,' comprised mainly of male associates. However, as more women occupy this sector, it becomes imperative for companies to strengthen policies that are unique to women who would like to start a family while pursuing a career. In this episode of Deal Us In, https://www.7mileadvisors.com/ (7 Mile Advisor's) Ariail Barker speaks with https://www.mainstcapital.com/ (Main Street Capital)'s Business Development and Marketing Manager, Molly White, about maternity leave policies in the finance industry. They share their personal experiences in their respective firms, as they will both be going on maternity leave soon. They stress the importance of businesses, irrespective of size, being aware of maternity regulations and examining whether their current policies are appropriately accommodating and flexible for employees. Top management should encourage a culture that supports leaves of absence and actively combats stigmas associated with taking time off.  If you're planning to take a leave of absence, Molly shares strategies and tips to help prepare your team to operate efficiently during your time away, including creating contingency plans and performing test runs. Molly also suggests designing systems for potential scenarios that your team may encounter and ensuring that they are equipped with the tools to be productive during your absence. Ariail adds, “You obviously want to make everything as seamless [as possible] so that you can step away and then be able to step back in and know that your team didn't lose productivity during that time.” (20:26) Further, they recommend keeping the lines of communication open during your leave, reassuring your team that you're still there to support them. To ensure everyone is on the same page, it's essential to communicate expectations clearly to the firm's partners and your immediate supervisors. They also discuss the COVID-19 pandemic and the effect it has on the finance industry. Molly talks about an escalation of more flexible scheduling and remote work, with options provided to employees. For many companies, the pandemic has led to the recognition that teams can be productive even outside the office, with growing trust that critical duties can still get accomplished in the comforts of a home office.  To cap off the episode, Molly reveals the piece of advice that she would share with her younger self – have patience. It takes time to position yourself for success, so be careful in making rash decisions and abruptly reacting to things happening in your life.   If you have questions about today's conversation, please feel free to reach out to Molly White at mwhite@mainstcapital.com or Ariail Barker at ariail@7mileadvisors.com. Thank you for joining us at the table for this episode of Deal Us In. We invite you to join the conversation by using our #Dealusinpodcast on Twitter or LinkedIn. If you have a recommendation for an inspiring interviewee, a question you'd like us to ask, or a topic you would like to hear covered, or if you'd like to tell us about women-focused initiatives in the field, please go to our website at http://www.DealUsInPodcast.com (www.DealUsInPodcast.com). We look forward to hearing from you.   This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any...

Seeing women in business and leadership roles is the norm, demonstrating a significant societal shift over the last decade when it comes to females in the corporate world. Many women are pursuing careers in previously male-dominated professions, including highly-specialized and niche arenas, including forensic accounting in M&A transactions. While in the past women were a rarity in this field, more female voices are joining the table and establishing themselves in leadership positions. In this episode of Deal Us In, https://www.mcguirewoods.com/people/h/kelsey-r-hitchcock (McGuireWoods' Kelsey Hitchcock) is joined by Christen Morand, an https://www.ey.com/en_us (Ernst & Young) partner handling fraud investigation and dispute services practice. The discussion examines how the culture for women has evolved over the past ten years, particularly in complex industries such as M&A. Christen shares her experience as an accounting arbitrator, positions historically filled by men. Christen goes on to discuss moving beyond a focus on gender and encouraging more diversity and inclusion in the workforce. It's essential to create a sense of belonging, a hospitable environment where everyone feels like a valuable member of the team. The downstream effects can also be valuable for the business, as your clients know they can rely on a team that represents a variety of unique perspectives and backgrounds. One primary strategy that Christen employs to promote the advancement of women and diverse people in the organization is to initiate individual or group conversations. During these conversations, she challenges her peers to examine their mindset and check their own biases. While these conversations are likely to be uncomfortable, they are necessary. While an increase in women in business is a positive development, Christen accentuates the need for women to pursue top leadership roles in their companies, modeling that it is possible to go all the way to the top. To show to women and young girls that it is possible for them to be a CEO, chairperson, or entrepreneur, to be an inspiration for the next generation of women. And, never be afraid to go outside of your comfort zone and ask for opportunities and challenges to demonstrate your talents and abilities.  Thank you for joining us at the table, for this episode of Deal Us In. We invite you to join the conversation by using our #Dealusinpodcast on Twitter or LinkedIn, If you have a recommendation for an inspiring interviewee, a question you'd like us to ask, or a topic you would like to hear covered, or if you'd like to tell us about women-focused initiatives in the field, please go to our website at http://www.DealUsInPodcast.com (www.DealUsInPodcast.com). We look forward to hearing from you. This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

Modern times have shown significant changes when it comes to women in the workplace. More females are getting promotions and career advancements compared to decades ago. Companies are implementing programs that not only support women but also promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. And, while notable gaps remain, the climate for women in the workplace is consistently improving. In this episode of Deal Us In, McGuireWoods' https://www.mcguirewoods.com/people/y/phyllis-y-young (Phyllis Young) speaks with https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasmin-huebinger-46bb2817/ (Yasmin Huebinger), Senior Vice President with Capital One. Yasmin discusses her personal experiences as a career woman and a leader in her institution. She shares a number of factors that have contributed to her success, including cultivating the ability to remain calm and focused even in times of high stress. When conducting deal transactions remaining focused is paramount, along with possessing emotional intelligence – a quality too frequently missing in professional settings. Yasmin also provides pointed advice to those committed to increasing the number and visibility of women in their firms. Research has consistently established that a more diverse workforce yields higher financial returns, at times surpassing the industry average. Instead of obsessing over attracting the best candidates, companies should double down on retaining talent by providing better benefits and encouraging work-life balance. She shares strategies that can help women advance in their organization, which she boils down to two points: being willing to ask for what you want and being more proactive. Yasmin emphasizes the importance of building relationships and being vigilant about acquiring mentors/sponsors who will speak on your behalf and advocate for you when opportunities arise. More women in leadership means more influence on critical decisions that can address issues including gender inequality and the gender pay gap. The discussion wraps up with Yasmin providing advice to her younger self, which is to not be afraid to take more risks. And, to stop worrying about money, that part will work out in the end. Thank you for joining us at the table, for this episode of Deal Us In. We invite you to join the conversation by using our #Dealusinpodcast on Twitter or LinkedIn. If you have a recommendation for an inspiring interviewee, a question you'd like us to ask, or a topic you would like to hear covered, or if you'd like to tell us about women-focused initiatives in the field, please go to our website at http://www.DealUsInPodcast.com (www.DealUsInPodcast.com). We look forward to hearing from you. This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live, work, and go about our day-to-day lives. With more cities and states implementing stay-at-home policies for its citizens, law firms are crafting unique business continuity processes, particularly in the M&A space. Although the quantity of deals has decreased, buyers and sellers remain interested in conducting transactions despite the current crisis. In this episode of Deal Us In, hosts Ann Dorsett and Ariail Barker speak with Amber Walsh, a https://www.mcguirewoods.com/people/w/amber-mcgraw-walsh (McGuireWoods) partner and co-leader of the company's Women in Private Equity and Finance Initiative. She goes in-depth on the logistics of deal-making and reveals you can help your clients close deals from home or anywhere. She also provides valuable tips for those less accustomed to remote work, including cultivating self-discipline and making the effort to stay connected to colleagues and clients. She also discusses the practice of shifting transactions and processes to the digital and virtual space as well as utilizing online tools and technology. When it comes to risk management, a new market is burgeoning from the pandemic. Amber discusses some new things that may be introduced, such as concepts of fairness and novel purchase agreement terms. It's also important to consider how much risk a seller should bear in these deals and how financial relief provided to companies can affect the transaction. Another key takeaway from the episode is Amber's advice to her younger self, “I wish I could go back and tell [myself] to expect ups and downs in your career… to just relax. It'll come back, work through it, power through, rely on your mentors, rely on your support system, and you'll figure it out in the same way that you always have, and you will be back on the upswing soon.” (32:19)  Thank you for joining us at the table, for this episode of Deal Us In. We invite you to join the conversation by using our #DealUsInPodcast on Twitter or LinkedIn. If you have a recommendation for an inspiring interviewee, a question you'd like us to ask, or a topic you would like to hear covered, or if you'd like to tell us about women-focused initiatives in the field, please go to our website at http://www.DealUsInPodcast.com (www.DealUsInPodcast.com). We look forward to hearing from you. This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

The private equity and finance industries have evolved significantly in recent the years. While the increasing availability of information has led to a faster pace, we're also seeing more women occupying leadership roles, and being recognized for their skills and efforts – something that was far less common a decade ago.  Deal Us In is a new podcast produced by https://www.mcguirewoods.com/ (McGuireWoods) and https://www.7mileadvisors.com/ (7 Mile Advisors), which aims to promote the advancement of women as critical leaders in private equity and finance. Through relatable conversations with professional women, especially those in under-represented corporate leadership positions, this podcast will highlight the importance of inclusion and diversity in the legal practice. On the inaugural episode of Deal Us In, hosts Kelsey Hitchcock, Ann Dorsett, and Phyllis Young from McGuireWoods, along with 7 Mile Advisors' Ariail Barker discuss their individual backgrounds and what led them to the private equity industry. They touch on the differences between transactional work and litigation, mentioning how deals and negotiations of the former are conducted and how being a transactional lawyer is a way of life. And now, women are not only more visible, but are stepping up to higher roles in law firms. They conclude by sharing a piece of advice they would give their 22-year old selves, advice that is applicable to any young female in the legal industry. Women's voices matter, and you should be comfortable taking risks, speaking up, raising issues, and proposing solutions when needed. Trust yourself more and spend less time trying to please other people. A valuable takeaway from Kelsey, Ann, Phyllis, and Ariail, is that women can be women and still get ahead, without needing to act like ‘men.' Thank you for joining us at the table, for this episode of Deal Us In. If you have a recommendation for an inspiring interviewee, a question you'd like us to ask, or a topic you would like to hear covered, or if you'd like to tell us about women focused initiatives in the field, please go to our website at http://www.DealUsInPodcast.com (www.DealUsInPodcast.com). We look forward to hearing from you. This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

Welcome to Deal Us In, a podcast brought to you by https://www.mcguirewoods.com/ (McGuireWoods) and https://www.7mileadvisors.com/ (7 Mile Advisors). Deal Us In promotes the advancement of women in private equity and finance through conversations with women leaders and rising stars in the private equity and finance space. These conversations provide both insights and practical takeaways to inform your deal work and enhance the culture of your organization. If you're ready to drive the industry toward a more inclusive and diverse environment then, it's time to come to the table. If you have a recommendation for an inspiring interviewee, a question you'd like us to ask, or topic you would like to hear covered, or if you'd like to tell us about women-focused initiatives in the field, please go to our website at http://www.dealusinpodcast.com (www.dealusinpodcast.com). We look forward to hearing from you.  This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods and 7 Mile Advisors for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods and 7 Mile Advisors make no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods or 7 Mile Advisors. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.