Finish Big - The Podcast with Mark Dorman from Legacy Business Advisors.

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, host Mark Dorman sits down with Brian Zawada—a seasoned business continuity and operational resilience expert, entrepreneur, author, and now boutique winemaker. Brian shares his incredible journey from serving as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Air Force to co-founding Evolution Consulting, scaling the business, and navigating a successful private equity-backed exit. Today, he's living a new chapter as the co-founder of Violet Vines, crafting exceptional Oregon wines. This episode is packed with insights on risk management, leadership, entrepreneurship, and life after business ownership. Brian's story is one of intentional decision-making, continuous learning, and the courage to reinvent yourself. Mark and Brian discuss: Military Precision in Business: Lessons from strategic intelligence and risk management. Bootstrapping to Success: Scaling Evolution Consulting without debt. Breaking Growth Barriers: How private equity and strategic partnerships fueled expansion. The Exit Journey: Challenges, lessons, and the importance of cultural fit with investors. Life After the Exit: Finding passion and purpose in winemaking at Violet Vines. Family, Freedom & Legacy: Balancing career ambitions with personal priorities. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Brian Zawada: LinkedIn: Brian Zawada Website: Violet Vines About the Guest: Brian Zawada is a resilience strategist, business advisor, and winemaker. With nearly 30 years of experience in business continuity and operational resilience, Brian has worked across industries including manufacturing, pharma, biotech, and consumer goods. He is the author of The Business Continuity Operating System and a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Business Continuity Institute. Today, he channels his passion into Violet Vines, a boutique winery in Oregon, alongside his family.

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Host Mark Dorman interviews Renee Russo, a dynamic CEO, coach, exit planner, and speaker from Melbourne, Australia, now based in Vancouver, Canada. Rene shares her journey from corporate accounting at KPMG to becoming a sought-after business coach and exit planner. She dives into how her personal challenges and professional pivots led her to develop an innovative approach to business freedom and growth. Renee's story highlights resilience, transformation, and the power of leveraging proven processes to turn chaos into clarity. She is passionate about helping business owners align their personal, financial, and business goals to build sustainable success and unlock wealth while maintaining personal freedom. Mark and Renee discuss: Chaos to Clarity: Implement systems to take control of your business. Mindset Matters: Shift to a value-focused approach for sustainable growth. Lead with Discipline: Build accountable, high-performing leadership teams. Plan for Freedom: Exit planning is about creating opportunities, not just endings. Life by Design: Align business and personal goals for lasting success. Resilience Wins: Turn setbacks into opportunities for growth. Peer Power: Leverage peer support for inspiration and professional growth. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Renee Russo: Website: Rise Up Business Coaching LinkedIn: Renee Russo About the Guest:  Renee Russo is the CEO and Founder of Rise Up Business Coaching, a leader in helping business owners align their personal and professional goals to achieve freedom and long-term success. She is a certified EOS Implementer and Exit Planning Advisor who leverages her vast experience to deliver high-impact coaching, workshops, and keynotes.

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman interviews Fred DiSanto, Chairman and CEO of Ancora Investments. Fred shares his inspiring journey from playing college sports to building a $10 billion investment firm. He discusses pivotal career moments, including his transition from institutional sales to founding Ancora, the challenges of scaling the business, and the strategies that have driven its success. Fred emphasises the importance of strong relationships, assembling top-tier talent, and offering innovative solutions like activism and alternative investments to differentiate in a competitive market. Fred also highlights his commitment to fostering a culture of ownership, sharing equity with nearly 40 employees during a significant liquidity event in 2021. He reflects on his philanthropic efforts, supporting institutions like Saint Ignatius High School and Case Western Reserve University, and his vision for Ancora's future—focusing on growth, client satisfaction, and community impact. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, succession planning, and building a lasting legacy. Mark and Fred discuss: Relationships Matter: Strong client and team relationships fuel growth. Stand Out: Differentiation through unique services drives success. Shared Ownership Wins: Employee equity fosters loyalty and growth. Community Impact: Supporting education and diversity builds a lasting legacy. Plan Ahead: Succession planning ensures stability and continued growth. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Fred DeSanto ● LinkedIn About the Guest: Fred DiSanto is the Chairman and CEO of Ancora Investments, a leading Midwest-based investment firm managing over $10 billion in assets. With decades of experience in finance, Fred has built a reputation for innovation, leadership, and fostering strong client relationships. A graduate of Case Western Reserve University, Fred is passionate about talent development, philanthropy, and driving growth through proprietary strategies like activism and alternative investments. His dedication to community and excellence has made him a respected figure in the financial industry.

In this episode of Finish Big, Mark Dorman engages with Brant Hammer, a finance professor and investment expert, to discuss the pressing economic challenges of inflation and their impact on businesses. They dive into Biden's economic policies, Trump's potential strategies for growth, and actionable insights for entrepreneurs to build strong succession plans. This conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for business leaders navigating a rapidly evolving economy. Mark and Robert discuss: WVU's Student Managed Investment Fund gives students real world investment experience. Inflation during Biden's term was fuelled by fiscal deficits and supply chain disruptions. Small businesses suffered in a “K-shaped” recovery, widening economic gaps. Trump's energy policies could lower oil prices and reduce inflation risks. Tariffs can be a strategic tool to negotiate fairer trade agreements. Extending the 2017 tax cuts would stabilise markets but must be balanced with spending cuts. Pro-energy policies could lower production costs and benefit consumers. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Robert: LinkedIn About Our Guest: Robert Hammer is a finance professor at WVU and advisor to the Student Managed Investment Fund, where he mentors students managing a $650,000+ portfolio. With extensive experience in banking and academia, Robert also authors Capital Notes, a newsletter focusing on investments and macroeconomics.

What are some of the most common pitfalls family business owners face when planning for "The Four D's," and how can they proactively address them? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman sits down with James Aussem, a distinguished attorney specialising in succession planning, mergers, and acquisitions. Together, they explore the challenges of planning for “The Four D's”—Death, Disability, Departure, and Discord—and share actionable strategies for family businesses to navigate transitions successfully. James discusses his journey from a tax attorney at Ernst & Ernst to a career dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and family business owners. He provides insights into why closely held family businesses require unique planning approaches, touching on key considerations like ownership requirements, business sustainability, and equity among family members. Mark and James discuss: Death, Disability, Departure, and Discord – The essential planning considerations for business owners. The Three W's for Family Businesses: What do current owners need? What can the business afford? What is fair for all stakeholders? Mistakes to Avoid in Succession Planning – How miscommunication and lack of planning can lead to failure. Baby Boomer Business Transitions – Advice for the wave of retiring entrepreneurs Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with James Aussem: LinkedIn: James Aussem About Our Guest: James Aussem is a seasoned attorney and shareholder at Cavitch, Farmelo, and Durkin Co., L.P., specialising in succession planning, mergers and acquisitions, and estate management. With over 40 years of experience, he's a trusted advisor to family businesses, simplifying complex legal issues to deliver practical solutions. A Hall of Fame inductee by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils, Jim is also recognised annually as one of The Best Lawyers in America. Known for his entrepreneurial mindset, Jim is dedicated to helping business owners plan for success and longevity.

Why do some family businesses thrive for generations while others struggle with succession and longevity? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman hosts Carol Butler, President of the Garing Center for Family and Private Business at the University of Cincinnati, North America's largest university-based family business center. Together, they discuss how the Garing Center supports family-owned businesses with resources that drive growth, resilience, and community. Carol shares her journey from a Fortune 500 executive to a key player in family business support, emphasizing the center's mission to foster the success and sustainability of private and family-owned businesses through real-world insights, leadership programs, and roundtable discussions. Mark and Carol discuss: The Importance of Community for Family Businesses Roundtable Groups and Their Impact Educational Programs and Institutes Challenges in Family Business Transitions Affordable Resources for Small Businesses Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Carol ButlerLinkedIn: Carol Butler About Our Guest: Carol Butler brings 30 years of corporate leadership experience and a passion for helping family businesses succeed. As President of the Garing Center, Carol is dedicated to providing educational support and resources that ensure the longevity and impact of family-owned businesses in the Cincinnati region and beyond.

Why do some family businesses thrive for generations while others struggle with succession and longevity? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman hosts Carol Butler, President of the Garing Center for Family and Private Business at the University of Cincinnati, North America's largest university-based family business center. Together, they discuss how the Garing Center supports family-owned businesses with resources that drive growth, resilience, and community. Carol shares her journey from a Fortune 500 executive to a key player in family business support, emphasizing the center's mission to foster the success and sustainability of private and family-owned businesses through real-world insights, leadership programs, and roundtable discussions. Mark and Carol discuss: The Importance of Community for Family Businesses Roundtable Groups and Their Impact Educational Programs and Institutes Challenges in Family Business Transitions Affordable Resources for Small Businesses Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Carol Butler LinkedIn: Carol Butler About Our Guest: Carol Butler brings 30 years of corporate leadership experience and a passion for helping family businesses succeed. As President of the Garing Center, Carol is dedicated to providing educational support and resources that ensure the longevity and impact of family-owned businesses in the Cincinnati region and beyond.

Are you a business owner considering an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) or exploring succession strategies? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Gorman delves into ESOP financing, discussing how bank and seller financing typically work together, and the potential advantages of mezzanine loans. Gain insights into tax implications, the role of ESOP trustees, and how these plans can benefit both the business and the community. This week's guest, Kelly Finnell, President of Executive Financial Services Inc., offers his expertise on ESOPs. He covers essential topics such as the process, timeline, and personal satisfaction involved in executing a successful business transition. Tune into this episode for a comprehensive guide to ESOPs and succession planning. Discover how to navigate these complex transactions and ensure your business's legacy thrives. Don't miss out—listen now! Mark and John discuss: Combining bank and seller financing, and the use of mezzanine loans. Differences in taxation for current pay interest and warrants in seller debt. Ensuring fair market value and commercially reasonable terms in ESOP transactions. The typical changes in the business owner's role, salary, and benefits. The steps and time required for feasibility analysis and transaction implementation. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Kelli Finnell: LinkedIn: Kelly Finnell About our guest: Kelli Finnell l is a leading ESOP consultant and president of Executive Financial Services Inc. Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Kelli specializes in ownership succession planning and has authored "The ESOP Coach." With extensive expertise in ESOP transactions, Kelli guides businesses through financing, taxation, and trustee responsibilities.

Are you a business owner considering an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) or exploring succession strategies? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman delves into ESOP financing, discussing how bank and seller financing typically work together, and the potential advantages of mezzanine loans. Gain insights into tax implications, the role of ESOP trustees, and how these plans can benefit both the business and the community. This week's guest, Kelly Finnell, President of Executive Financial Services Inc., offers his expertise on ESOPs. He covers essential topics such as the process, timeline, and personal satisfaction involved in executing a successful business transition. Tune into this episode for a comprehensive guide to ESOPs and succession planning. Discover how to navigate these complex transactions and ensure your business's legacy thrives. Don't miss out—listen now! Mark and Kelly discuss: Combining bank and seller financing, and the use of mezzanine loans. Differences in taxation for current pay interest and warrants in seller debt. Ensuring fair market value and commercially reasonable terms in ESOP transactions. The typical changes in the business owner's role, salary, and benefits. The steps and time required for feasibility analysis and transaction implementation. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Kelly Finnell: LinkedIn: Kelly Finnell About our guest: Kelly Finnell is a leading ESOP consultant and president of Executive Financial Services Inc. Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Kelly specializes in ownership succession planning and has authored “The ESOP Coach.” With extensive expertise in ESOP transactions, Kelly guides businesses through financing, taxation, and trustee responsibilities.

Are you a business owner looking to maximize the value of your enterprise and grow your client base? This episode of the Finish Big podcast offers actionable insights and practical advice to help you achieve your business goals. This week's guest, John D. Hanson, an award-winning author and expert in customer service, shares his journey from zero LinkedIn contacts to over 30,000. John discusses optimizing client relationships, leveraging LinkedIn for networking, and the power of video content. Learn about his strategies for maintaining client engagement and his approach to customer discovery, providing a roadmap to enhance your business success. Tune into the Finish Big podcast to hear John D. Hanson's expert tips on growing your business, engaging your customers, and maximizing your company's value. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a seasoned professional. Mark and John discuss: The importance of clients knowing all the services and solutions a business offers. Strategies to leverage existing clients and their networks for easier sales. The impact of optimizing LinkedIn profiles and consistent engagement for business growth. The effectiveness of video content in building trust and engaging potential clients. The five dimensions of customer experience from John's book, Fifth Dimensional Customer Experience. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with John D Hanson. About our guest: John D. Hanson is an award-winning author and customer experience expert. With three acclaimed books, including Wow Your Customers and Fifth Dimensional Customer Experience, he helps businesses enhance their customer engagement. A dynamic speaker and LinkedIn strategist, John shares actionable insights for business growth and client retention.

Are you a business owner looking to maximize the value of your enterprise and grow your client base? This episode of the Finish Big podcast offers actionable insights and practical advice to help you achieve your business goals. This week's guest, John D. Hanson, an award-winning author and expert in customer service, shares his journey from zero LinkedIn contacts to over 30,000. John discusses optimizing client relationships, leveraging LinkedIn for networking, and the power of video content. Learn about his strategies for maintaining client engagement and his approach to customer discovery, providing a roadmap to enhance your business success. Tune into the Finish Big podcast to hear John D. Hanson's expert tips on growing your business, engaging your customers, and maximizing your company's value. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a seasoned professional. Mark and John discuss: The importance of clients knowing all the services and solutions a business offers. Strategies to leverage existing clients and their networks for easier sales. The impact of optimizing LinkedIn profiles and consistent engagement for business growth. The effectiveness of video content in building trust and engaging potential clients. The five dimensions of customer experience from John's book, Fifth Dimensional Customer Experience. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with John D Hanson: About our guest: John D. Hanson is an award-winning author and customer experience expert. With three acclaimed books, including Wow Your Customers and Fifth Dimensional Customer Experience, he helps businesses enhance their customer engagement. A dynamic speaker and LinkedIn strategist, John shares actionable insights for business growth and client retention.  

In the realm of exit plans, things don't always go as planned. Sometimes they happen smoothly the first time, other times they face delays. But that's the thing: there's no one right way. Each exit is its own journey, with its own ups and downs. Join Mark Doman as he sits down with Craig Sturgill, … Read More Read More

Many believe that SBA loans are only for startups or fraught with bureaucratic red tape. However, this week's guest, Tara Murphy debunks these myths, demonstrating the power of SBA lending in aiding successful business exits and transitions. Join Mark Doman and Tara Murphy, SBA Business Development Officer and Vice President of Huntington National Bank as … Read More Read More

Are you ready to secure your legacy and ensure your business thrives beyond your exit? In this enlightening episode, Mark Dorman is joined by Jim Erben, president of Erben Associates and a sought-after exit and succession planning specialist. Together, they delve into the crucial, yet often daunting, process of planning for business exit and succession. … Read More Read More

Many entrepreneurs start their exit journey with a partial sale to de-risk from a substantial portion of their wealth being tied up in the business. Doing so sets them up for an eventual full exit. In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Jim Doyle, who founded and sold Jim Doyle and Associates (now JDA.Media). Jim … Read More Read More

Are you ready to transform the way you run your business? Today on the Finish Big Podcast,  Mark Doman introduces Joni Fedders, President of Aileron, and explores the unique nonprofit organization based in Dayton, Ohio. Together they explore how Aileron helps business owners and their teams embrace professional management to elevate their lives and organizations. … Read More Read More

Have you ever wondered what it takes to scale a family business into a multi-location, multi-million dollar empire? In the latest installment of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman talks with Ron Nagy, a successful second-generation business owner, about his journey of transforming a single-location body shop into a multi-location thriving enterprise, the challenges faced … Read More Read More

Are you a business owner standing at the crossroads of change, wondering what to do next?  You're not alone. In this episode, Mark Dorman and founding member of the Legacy Advisors Network, Joe Scheid tackle the often-overlooked but critical issue that business owners face: the complex challenge of financial planning during pivotal transitions. Together they … Read More Read More

With a rapidly evolving marketplace and the persistent talent shortages in the accounting industry, the need for expert guidance in succession planning has never been more critical In this insightful episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Rich Craig, Managing Partner at 415 Group. Together, they discuss the intricacies of growing an accounting firm and the broader … Read More Read More

Have you ever wondered what it takes to run and operate a successful business? How about doing it over multiple generations spanning nearly a century? In the latest installment of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman sits down with Chuck Ellis, recently retired president and CEO of the renowned Pearl Valley Cheese Company in Ohio. … Read More Read More

Do you need help with developing sales functions in your business?  Well, don't go anywhere because you've come to the right place! This week, guest Melanie French, a fractional VP of Sales, joins Mark Dorman to discuss the importance of developing and improving sales functions in mid-size companies. Melanie shares her journey from a Sales … Read More Read More

If you're a business owner wrestling with the idea of passing the torch or expanding your family's business footprint, take heart—you're in good company. In the latest edition of the Finish Big Podcast Mark Dorman talks with Mike Catan, the former CEO who propelled Pat Catan's and Darice Incorporated from a humble family craft store … Read More Read More

Do you understand the true value of your company? In today's enlightening conversation, Mark Dorman talks with Chief Valuation Officer at BizEquity, Scott Gabehart to shed light on the complexities of business valuation. With Scott's extensive experience and insight, this episode demystifies the valuation process and illustrates how BizEquity's innovative platform is making accurate valuations … Read More Read More

What do you need to make the most of your succession plan? What strategies and information could exit planners provide? Join Mark Dorman and his guest Steve Hopkins, Owner of Charter BTA, in exploring the critical nature of devising contingency plans for business owners. Together they touch on the advantages of having a CEPA credential … Read More Read More

Are you working in a family business? Do your values align with the company values and trajectory?  Mark Dorman speaks with Mike Swiatkowski, VP of Corporate Development at Gordon River Partners, about his journey through his family business. From starting at the company, to promoting growth after his father passed, to leaving the family business … Read More Read More

Private equity firms have evolved since they first started growing in the eighties. What role do they currently play in M&A procedures and business planning? Listen in as Mark Dorman and his guest Paul Carleton, founder and managing partner of Carleton McKenna, share stories from Paul's initial steps in the field. Explore how investment banking … Read More Read More

Are you ready to exit your business? Maybe you are financially, but what about emotionally? Join Mark Dorman and his guest Jerome Myers, host of the Dreamcatchers Podcast, in discussing how he transitioned from engineering to real estate and coaching. Jerome dives into the challenges that founders often face after exiting their businesses, stressing the … Read More Read More

Ever wondered how a family business navigates leadership transitions?  In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Tanya DiSalvo, CEO of Criterion Tool, on the history of Criterion Tool, a family business focused on precision manufacturing started by her grandfather, and her own unexpected journey into the manufacturing industry. She shares how the business transitioned from … Read More Read More

Are you planning your business exit for yourself or your potential buyers? That small shift in perspective could increase your chances of a successful exit. In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Dr. Craig West, founder and executive chairman of Succession Plus, on his nine-step exit plan and how he helps business owners achieve their … Read More Read More

One of the key strategies to exit planning is selling a business. But how can business owners ensure they get the best return while their business has the best value? In this episode, Mark Dorman is joined by Diane Thomas, President and designated broker at Premier Sales, Inc., in discussing the importance of strategic planning … Read More Read More

Preparing to exit your business starts with understanding where your business's value currently sits and how that value will impact your exit. How could market shifts impact that valuation? In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Robert Brant Hammer, a finance professor at West Virginia University, on the current economic environment, focusing on interest rates, … Read More Read More

When you want to exit your business, you want to know you're doing it right. Learning from someone who not only exited their own business successfully but also developed a strategy easily replicated for other business owners is a great step to exiting successfully. In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Scott Snider, President of … Read More Read More

When looking to exit a business, selling it can be a great option for some entrepreneurs. But how can you ensure your business is sellable? Is there an emotional aspect to selling your business? In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Scott Duke, founder of OpnRoad, on his experience in building many businesses and selling … Read More Read More

When you think about exiting a business, you are planning for more than passing on a title and money. You need to consider the physical assets and your own personal goals as well. In this episode, Mark Dorman is joined by David Shealy, managing principal of HW&Co., Mansfield OH, in discussing the challenges and importance … Read More Read More

Business owners are experts at running businesses. They aren't experts at selling them and they most definitely aren't experts at sourcing people who would want to buy the business. In this episode, Mark Dorman interviews Craig Kohrs, one of the founding partners of Velocity Capital Partners. Craig shares his experience of selling his previous business, … Read More Read More

It can be nerve-racking to leave a company you built, sell it off and start something new, but the experiences you gained from past careers can help you along your entrepreneurial journey. In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Edmond Walters, Founder and CEO of VillanovaTech, LLC, about his journey as an entrepreneur. From building … Read More Read More

Ever wonder how an entrepreneur can lead a company to growth, dodge the curveballs of a pandemic, and still find time to venture into boat manufacturing? In this episode, Mark Dorman interviews Nate Sublett, the innovative President and Owner of Benchmark Craftsmen, diving into the complexities of successful business transitions and creative reinvention. Drawing from … Read More Read More

Reading about exit planning can only take you so far. How has your business grown in the past few years? How will your exit impact future growth? What should you look for in an advisor? Learning from someone who has experienced exit planning firsthand can grant new insight into opportunities in the future. In this … Read More Read More

No matter how successful a business owner is, almost all stumble on the question of the value of their business. How do you determine that number? And how can you increase that number? In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Michael Carter, CEO of BizEquity, on his experience and growth as an entrepreneur and business … Read More Read More

No financial advisor understands every strategy and tool to build a perfect business plan. With the niche area of ESOP, even fewer know to use it effectively. That's why learning from someone who knows is the best option. In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Kelly O. Finnell, J.D., CLU, AIF®, CEO and President of … Read More Read More

How much could you problem-solve with your own information? How much more could be solved with the knowledge of multiple business owners? In this episode, Mark Dorman is joined by Bob Hothem, CEO of TAB Miami Valley, on how his company works with business owners to create guidance and accountability through personalized coaching plans and … Read More Read More

When exiting your business, you want the value that you put in. How can you ensure your exit plan considers the future of that business and your wants either through succession planning or the sale of the company? In this episode, Mark Dorman is joined by J. Douglas Drushal, partner at Critchfield, Critchfield & Johnston, … Read More Read More

Business owners can be seen as knowing everything about finance because their businesses succeed. But that isn't often the case.  In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with H. Adam Holt, founder and CEO of Asset-Map about simplifying financial explanations and discussions with business owners. Adam shares how helping business owners understand complex financial planning will … Read More Read More

80% of businesses fail to transfer successfully due to a lack of planning. How can a small shift in perspective increase your chances of success? In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Chuck Richards, CEO of ValuCompass. He unpacks how their research tool analyzes your business, helps you treat it as an asset and connects … Read More Read More

Taking the step to build your passion into a business takes more than just money. You need an entrepreneurial spirit for what you are building. In this episode, Mark Dorman is joined by Jerry Schill, CEO of Schill Grounds Management, to talk about his journey as an entrepreneur. Jerry shares his experience in building a … Read More Read More

Many advisors know about the game of golf, whether they play to let off some steam or to connect with clients on a more personal level. Behind every green course is a business like any other. In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Rodney Davis, from River Greens Golf Course, on his experience as a … Read More Read More

Employee stock opportunity plans aren't just for employees as the name suggests. Business owners can benefit from ESOPs just as much. In this episode, Mark Dorman is joined by Kevin Vonderau, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer of Westfield Bank, and Dan Bender, Senior Vice President at Westfield Bank, in discussing the role of … Read More Read More

Joining the family business can be an easy way to start a career. But is it the career you want? And how can you explore new opportunities within the singular business?  In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Dr. Michael Klein, President of MK Insights and author of Trapped in the Family Business, on how … Read More Read More

While growing, businesses reach a point where they are too big to be small but too small to be big. This place is called No Man's Land. In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Doug Tatum, Chairman of Newport LLC and the author of No Man's Land: Where Growing Companies Fail. Doug explains how the … Read More Read More

You should run a business as if it's going to last forever, but you could sell it tomorrow if you had to. In this episode, Mark Dorman is joined once more by Bo Burlingham, contributing writer for Forbes and the renowned author of Finish Big: How Great Entrepreneurs Exit Their Companies On Top, diving into … Read More Read More

The journey towards a successful exit plan is long, with many roads to navigate. Learning from several experiences of others can grant us a push in the right direction. In this episode, Mark Dorman interviews Bo Burlingham, contributing writer for Forbes and the renowned author of Finish Big: How Great Entrepreneurs Exit Their Companies On … Read More Read More