Holding company
POPULARITY
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Robert Fitzpatrick, a Navy veteran, business consultant, fraternity brother (ΩΨΦ), and now the owner reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue legacy. The conversation dives deeply into Fitzpatrick’s upbringing, his father’s groundbreaking barbecue business in 1950s Texas, his educational and military journey, his corporate career, and his decision to launch Dewey’s Barbecue Market in Skokie, Illinois—honoring his father’s original recipes and values. The interview blends entrepreneurship, legacy, cultural history, and personal transformation, while highlighting the courage of Fitzpatrick’s father and the humility and faith-driven foundation of his family. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Inspire entrepreneurship and legacy-building Fitzpatrick’s story showcases how family heritage and values can shape a business vision across generations. 2. Highlight resilience, faith, and leadership His upbringing in a household rooted in Christian humility, strong expectations, and boundary-breaking courage provides a blueprint for character-driven success. 3. Educate listeners on transitioning careers Fitzpatrick exemplifies pivoting from engineering and corporate consulting to pursuing passion-driven entrepreneurship. 4. Promote Dewey’s Barbecue Market The interview introduces the Chicago-area community—especially the Skokie region—to his upcoming restaurant built on a 70-year-old Texas barbecue tradition. Key Takeaways 1. A powerful family legacy rooted in courage Fitzpatrick’s father, Dewey, opened a barbecue restaurant in 1951—before desegregation—and insisted that Blacks and whites could eat together. He enforced respect and safety in his establishment, even confronting racist patrons. 2. Education was non-negotiable in the Fitzpatrick household Robert is the youngest of seven siblings, all college graduates; five hold master’s degrees. He himself holds an MBA and an MS in Management Information Systems. 3. A bridge between technology and business Fitzpatrick spent decades in consulting with major firms (EDS, Dell, Arthur Andersen, KPMG) focusing on business process improvement. His dual MS/MBA made him a translator between tech and finance. 4. Military discipline shaped his personal and professional life Served in the U.S. Navy from 1986–1990, plus reserve duty (including deployment to Iraq). Balanced military service with graduate studies and advancing his corporate career. 5. A calling to revive his father’s barbecue His wife recognized his talent early, telling him for years he should be barbecuing. A shortage of good Texas barbecue in Virginia pushed him to recreate his father’s recipes. 6. Skokie, Illinois: the ideal launchpad After moving to the Great Lakes Naval Base area for a federal role, Fitzpatrick began scouting locations. Skokie offered: active support from city leadership grants an ideal building community enthusiasm 7. Dewey’s Barbecue Market offerings Meats: brisket, sausage, hot links, smoked boudin (monthly special) Sides: potato salad (egg/mayo base), pineapple vinegar coleslaw, fried okra, smoked pinto beans Desserts: apple cobbler, blueberry cobbler, sweet potato pie, possibly fried pies Bread: sliced “light bread” for dipping—traditional Texas style Experience: dine-in with 60s–80s “feel-good” music 8. A commitment to doing things the right way Fitzpatrick refuses to launch unless he can deliver “the best product on the planet.” Focuses on simplicity, authenticity, and quality. Notable Quotes About his father and legacy “He said anybody who wants to eat here can eat here.”(His father defying segregation laws in the 1950s.) “I can call an undertaker or an ambulance. Which one do you prefer?”(Dewey enforcing respect from a belligerent white customer.) “That was my barbecue.”(On being raised around his father’s legendary pit.) About family and humility “We are firmly rooted in Christ. If you try to get too big, He has a way of humbling you.” “Seven kids, all with degrees… that’s normal to you. But we know that’s not normal.”(McDonald highlighting the family’s extraordinary achievement.) About his calling “If I didn’t think I was bringing the best product on the planet, I wouldn’t even do it.” “My wife tasted the barbecue and said, ‘This is what you need to be doing.’” About launching in Skokie “They really want me to be there… the economic development team didn’t treat it like just another restaurant.” Short 3–5 Sentence Summary (For Quick Use) In his interview with Rushion McDonald, Robert Fitzpatrick shares his journey from Navy veteran and Fortune 500 consultant to entrepreneur reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue. He describes growing up with a courageous father who defied segregation in 1951 by serving Black and white customers together, and a family culture steeped in education, discipline, and humility. Fitzpatrick’s passion for barbecue and encouragement from his wife led him to bring his father’s 70-year-old recipes to Skokie, Illinois through Dewey’s Barbecue Market. The interview emphasizes legacy, faith, courage, and the pursuit of purpose. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Robert Fitzpatrick, a Navy veteran, business consultant, fraternity brother (ΩΨΦ), and now the owner reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue legacy. The conversation dives deeply into Fitzpatrick’s upbringing, his father’s groundbreaking barbecue business in 1950s Texas, his educational and military journey, his corporate career, and his decision to launch Dewey’s Barbecue Market in Skokie, Illinois—honoring his father’s original recipes and values. The interview blends entrepreneurship, legacy, cultural history, and personal transformation, while highlighting the courage of Fitzpatrick’s father and the humility and faith-driven foundation of his family. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Inspire entrepreneurship and legacy-building Fitzpatrick’s story showcases how family heritage and values can shape a business vision across generations. 2. Highlight resilience, faith, and leadership His upbringing in a household rooted in Christian humility, strong expectations, and boundary-breaking courage provides a blueprint for character-driven success. 3. Educate listeners on transitioning careers Fitzpatrick exemplifies pivoting from engineering and corporate consulting to pursuing passion-driven entrepreneurship. 4. Promote Dewey’s Barbecue Market The interview introduces the Chicago-area community—especially the Skokie region—to his upcoming restaurant built on a 70-year-old Texas barbecue tradition. Key Takeaways 1. A powerful family legacy rooted in courage Fitzpatrick’s father, Dewey, opened a barbecue restaurant in 1951—before desegregation—and insisted that Blacks and whites could eat together. He enforced respect and safety in his establishment, even confronting racist patrons. 2. Education was non-negotiable in the Fitzpatrick household Robert is the youngest of seven siblings, all college graduates; five hold master’s degrees. He himself holds an MBA and an MS in Management Information Systems. 3. A bridge between technology and business Fitzpatrick spent decades in consulting with major firms (EDS, Dell, Arthur Andersen, KPMG) focusing on business process improvement. His dual MS/MBA made him a translator between tech and finance. 4. Military discipline shaped his personal and professional life Served in the U.S. Navy from 1986–1990, plus reserve duty (including deployment to Iraq). Balanced military service with graduate studies and advancing his corporate career. 5. A calling to revive his father’s barbecue His wife recognized his talent early, telling him for years he should be barbecuing. A shortage of good Texas barbecue in Virginia pushed him to recreate his father’s recipes. 6. Skokie, Illinois: the ideal launchpad After moving to the Great Lakes Naval Base area for a federal role, Fitzpatrick began scouting locations. Skokie offered: active support from city leadership grants an ideal building community enthusiasm 7. Dewey’s Barbecue Market offerings Meats: brisket, sausage, hot links, smoked boudin (monthly special) Sides: potato salad (egg/mayo base), pineapple vinegar coleslaw, fried okra, smoked pinto beans Desserts: apple cobbler, blueberry cobbler, sweet potato pie, possibly fried pies Bread: sliced “light bread” for dipping—traditional Texas style Experience: dine-in with 60s–80s “feel-good” music 8. A commitment to doing things the right way Fitzpatrick refuses to launch unless he can deliver “the best product on the planet.” Focuses on simplicity, authenticity, and quality. Notable Quotes About his father and legacy “He said anybody who wants to eat here can eat here.”(His father defying segregation laws in the 1950s.) “I can call an undertaker or an ambulance. Which one do you prefer?”(Dewey enforcing respect from a belligerent white customer.) “That was my barbecue.”(On being raised around his father’s legendary pit.) About family and humility “We are firmly rooted in Christ. If you try to get too big, He has a way of humbling you.” “Seven kids, all with degrees… that’s normal to you. But we know that’s not normal.”(McDonald highlighting the family’s extraordinary achievement.) About his calling “If I didn’t think I was bringing the best product on the planet, I wouldn’t even do it.” “My wife tasted the barbecue and said, ‘This is what you need to be doing.’” About launching in Skokie “They really want me to be there… the economic development team didn’t treat it like just another restaurant.” Short 3–5 Sentence Summary (For Quick Use) In his interview with Rushion McDonald, Robert Fitzpatrick shares his journey from Navy veteran and Fortune 500 consultant to entrepreneur reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue. He describes growing up with a courageous father who defied segregation in 1951 by serving Black and white customers together, and a family culture steeped in education, discipline, and humility. Fitzpatrick’s passion for barbecue and encouragement from his wife led him to bring his father’s 70-year-old recipes to Skokie, Illinois through Dewey’s Barbecue Market. The interview emphasizes legacy, faith, courage, and the pursuit of purpose. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Robert Fitzpatrick, a Navy veteran, business consultant, fraternity brother (ΩΨΦ), and now the owner reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue legacy. The conversation dives deeply into Fitzpatrick’s upbringing, his father’s groundbreaking barbecue business in 1950s Texas, his educational and military journey, his corporate career, and his decision to launch Dewey’s Barbecue Market in Skokie, Illinois—honoring his father’s original recipes and values. The interview blends entrepreneurship, legacy, cultural history, and personal transformation, while highlighting the courage of Fitzpatrick’s father and the humility and faith-driven foundation of his family. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Inspire entrepreneurship and legacy-building Fitzpatrick’s story showcases how family heritage and values can shape a business vision across generations. 2. Highlight resilience, faith, and leadership His upbringing in a household rooted in Christian humility, strong expectations, and boundary-breaking courage provides a blueprint for character-driven success. 3. Educate listeners on transitioning careers Fitzpatrick exemplifies pivoting from engineering and corporate consulting to pursuing passion-driven entrepreneurship. 4. Promote Dewey’s Barbecue Market The interview introduces the Chicago-area community—especially the Skokie region—to his upcoming restaurant built on a 70-year-old Texas barbecue tradition. Key Takeaways 1. A powerful family legacy rooted in courage Fitzpatrick’s father, Dewey, opened a barbecue restaurant in 1951—before desegregation—and insisted that Blacks and whites could eat together. He enforced respect and safety in his establishment, even confronting racist patrons. 2. Education was non-negotiable in the Fitzpatrick household Robert is the youngest of seven siblings, all college graduates; five hold master’s degrees. He himself holds an MBA and an MS in Management Information Systems. 3. A bridge between technology and business Fitzpatrick spent decades in consulting with major firms (EDS, Dell, Arthur Andersen, KPMG) focusing on business process improvement. His dual MS/MBA made him a translator between tech and finance. 4. Military discipline shaped his personal and professional life Served in the U.S. Navy from 1986–1990, plus reserve duty (including deployment to Iraq). Balanced military service with graduate studies and advancing his corporate career. 5. A calling to revive his father’s barbecue His wife recognized his talent early, telling him for years he should be barbecuing. A shortage of good Texas barbecue in Virginia pushed him to recreate his father’s recipes. 6. Skokie, Illinois: the ideal launchpad After moving to the Great Lakes Naval Base area for a federal role, Fitzpatrick began scouting locations. Skokie offered: active support from city leadership grants an ideal building community enthusiasm 7. Dewey’s Barbecue Market offerings Meats: brisket, sausage, hot links, smoked boudin (monthly special) Sides: potato salad (egg/mayo base), pineapple vinegar coleslaw, fried okra, smoked pinto beans Desserts: apple cobbler, blueberry cobbler, sweet potato pie, possibly fried pies Bread: sliced “light bread” for dipping—traditional Texas style Experience: dine-in with 60s–80s “feel-good” music 8. A commitment to doing things the right way Fitzpatrick refuses to launch unless he can deliver “the best product on the planet.” Focuses on simplicity, authenticity, and quality. Notable Quotes About his father and legacy “He said anybody who wants to eat here can eat here.”(His father defying segregation laws in the 1950s.) “I can call an undertaker or an ambulance. Which one do you prefer?”(Dewey enforcing respect from a belligerent white customer.) “That was my barbecue.”(On being raised around his father’s legendary pit.) About family and humility “We are firmly rooted in Christ. If you try to get too big, He has a way of humbling you.” “Seven kids, all with degrees… that’s normal to you. But we know that’s not normal.”(McDonald highlighting the family’s extraordinary achievement.) About his calling “If I didn’t think I was bringing the best product on the planet, I wouldn’t even do it.” “My wife tasted the barbecue and said, ‘This is what you need to be doing.’” About launching in Skokie “They really want me to be there… the economic development team didn’t treat it like just another restaurant.” Short 3–5 Sentence Summary (For Quick Use) In his interview with Rushion McDonald, Robert Fitzpatrick shares his journey from Navy veteran and Fortune 500 consultant to entrepreneur reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue. He describes growing up with a courageous father who defied segregation in 1951 by serving Black and white customers together, and a family culture steeped in education, discipline, and humility. Fitzpatrick’s passion for barbecue and encouragement from his wife led him to bring his father’s 70-year-old recipes to Skokie, Illinois through Dewey’s Barbecue Market. The interview emphasizes legacy, faith, courage, and the pursuit of purpose. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, we break down the massive wave of M&A activity hitting the industry, featuring our returning guest, Chris Kolquist from Koliway LLC! With tons of headlines about large companies looking to acquire businesses, we dive into what it takes to survive the freight recession and come out on top. We also cover the impact of the recent SCOTUS ruling on carrier decisions, how to transition from a founder-led business to a scalable organizational structure, and the future for boutique brokerages utilizing AI and automation! If you want to know what makes a brokerage truly appealing to buyers and how to protect your life's work, you don't want to miss this conversation! About Chris Kolquist Throughout his career, senior executive and strategic leader Chris Kolquist has been a catalyst in driving commercial growth, positive financial results, and maximum shareholder value in challenging and hyper-competitive markets. He has built a noteworthy reputation for understanding investments, delivering ROI objectives, managing massive change, and building highly effective cultures. In 2021, Chris launched Koliway LLC, an investment and advisory firm specializing in investments, M&A transactions, board service, and advisory executive logistics work. Chris began his career with Arthur Andersen, where he served as Senior Auditor from 1998 to 2001, conducting audits, M&A transaction support, and financial due diligence for buy-side and sell-side clients. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1998 and obtained his CPA license in 2001 (now inactive). Connect with Chris Website: https://koliway.com/ Email: ckolquist@koliway.com
Jean-François Couëc, Président de Kardham, pilote la transformation d'un groupe devenu un acteur majeur de l'aménagement et du conseil en immobilier d'entreprise. Arrivé en 1999, après un parcours en conseil et stratégie chez Arthur Andersen, il accompagne l'évolution de l'entreprise d'un métier d'aménagement de bureaux vers une plateforme intégrée mêlant architecture, ingénierie, conseil et transformation des espaces. Sous son impulsion, Kardham accélère sa croissance en France et en Europe grâce à la diversification, au développement international et à la croissance externe. Datacenters, hôtellerie, grands projets tertiaires : le groupe mise sur l'innovation, les talents et une forte culture entrepreneuriale pour continuer à grandir malgré un contexte immobilier complexe.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
This one is as action-packed and varied in scene as a James Bond movie. John Ferrara is founder and CEO of Capstone Partners, the middle market investment bank. John's story rolls through his upbringing in hardscrabble Brockton, MA to college at liberal arts enclave Wesleyan to an early career stop with Lehman Brothers on Wall Street, to two years of professional baseball in Australia. Then business school at UCLA, partnership at Arthur Andersen and, in 2002, the founding of Capstone. John discusses his ambitious early plans for a new investment bank, the buildup of Capstone through a series of acquisitions, and the decision to sell to Huntington Bank in 2022. John and the hosts wrap up discussing some personal challenges and life philosophy that applies to but transcends the world of finance.
This week on That Tech Pod, Kevin and Laura talk with David Turner, Global Leader of Data & Analytics and Co-Leader of AI at FTI Consulting, about what it really means to operate at the center of data, AI, and high-stakes problem solving.David's career path might look straightforward, from Arthur Andersen to Capital One and then more than two decades at FTI, but he explains it was less about a master plan and more about finding the right environments and teams. Consulting, for him, became the place where he could continuously solve new, complex problems, often stepping in when companies are facing moments that feel existential.The conversation dives into AI quickly, cutting through the hype. David focuses on what actually works: real use cases, hands-on experience, and teams actively experimenting with tools. His view is that AI isn't something you can understand from a slide deck. It's a skill you build by using it, and the companies moving fastest are the ones sharing what's working internally. One of the biggest themes is how AI is reshaping the economics of consulting. If technology compresses time to insight, what happens to the billable hour? David doesn't see a clean break, but he does see a shift. Expertise becomes more valuable, and firms will need to get more creative with pricing, blending traditional models with outcome-based approaches depending on the work. They also spend time on risk, shaped in part by David's early experience during the collapse of Arthur Andersen. That moment reinforced that no firm is immune, and it continues to influence how he balances innovation with caution, especially in today's AI-driven environment. This is a grounded look at where AI is actually making an impact and where the real challenges still are.David Turner is the Global Leader of Data and Analytics and Co-Leader of AI at FTI Consulting, and now serves as the firm's Chief Technology Officer for client-facing technology. He works with executive teams on high-stakes challenges across investigations, litigation, compliance, and corporate transformation, helping organizations turn data into a real asset using advanced analytics and responsible AI. Over the course of his career, he's advised Fortune 500 companies, global law firms, and public sector clients, and has played a key role in shaping FTI's approach to AI and client-facing solutions.
Episode 84 From Enron to Today: What 20 Years Taught Us About White Collar Crime Host Matt Adams sits down with former Enron Task Force lead prosecutor and Duke Law Professor Samuel Buell to trace the arc of corporate fraud enforcement — from the historic conviction of Enron's top executives to the challenges facing regulators and prosecutors today. Buell offers a candid look at how the Enron prosecution came together, including the pivotal decision to flip CFO Andrew Fastow, the controversial case against Arthur Andersen, and why holding individuals accountable in America's boardrooms remains far more difficult than the public tends to assume. Buell makes the case that criminal prosecution alone cannot prevent the next corporate crisis — and that strong regulatory infrastructure may matter more than any single perp walk. With the Department of Justice closing over 23,000 cases, the SEC losing experienced staff, and career prosecutors stepping away, Buell reflects on what happens when enforcement capacity erodes. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the participants and should not be considered the views of Fox Rothschild LLP or its attorneys. This podcast is for informational purposes only, is not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Send us Fan MailClay Lehman spent 20 years in real estate, starting at Arthur Andersen, running the Ocala controller desk for Pulte Homes, and eventually building Lehman's Strategic Partners to help agents grow their businesses. He runs an AI Facebook group with members in 65 countries and now spends most of his time helping real estate pros turn AI from a shiny object into a revenue tool. If you're still using AI to write listing descriptions and calling it a day, this one will push your thinking.In this episode you'll learn:- Why Clay calls obscurity, not competition, the biggest threat to any real estate business- How the "eliminate, automate, delegate" framework turns documented processes into leverage- Which AI tools Clay actually uses daily, and how Gemini, Claude, and ChatGPT scored in his blind writing test- How Ed built an AI voice agent that gets a lead on the phone in 45 seconds, across five languages- Why the Harvard 391% rule makes speed-to-lead the single biggest edge in real estate today- How solo operators and small teams can look and act like companies many times their sizeResources Mentioned: Google NotebookLM for deal prep and process documentation. Gamma for instant presentations. ylopo for lead nurture automation.Takeaway: AI is a force multiplier, not a crutch. It levels the playing field on access, but experience and wisdom still do the heavy lifting. Use it as the spotter at the gym, not the guy lifting the weight.Elevista - Speed as a Service™Elevista Connect is the first AI-powered lead conversion system built for real estate investors. Heads up: If you find this week's book intriguing and you buy using our link, we receive a small commission that helps support the show. Thank you!
Ready to ride the next wave of freight innovation? Tune in to today's conversation with our returning guest, Chris Kolquist of Koliway LLC! Chris breaks down the high-stakes world of M&A in transportation and why now, in 2026, the real players are finally standing out. We're cutting through the noise to discuss how AI and automation are completely leveling the playing field, making it so you don't need to be a top-five freight brokerage to have world-class resources, the reality of business development, the common pitfalls of hiring expensive sales teams without a system, and why a solid succession plan is the ultimate value-driver for any founder looking to exit! If you're a small shop grinding it out or a mid-sized firm looking to scale through a strategic partnership, you shouldn't miss the raw and unfiltered insights from this episode! About Chris Kolquist Throughout his career, senior executive and strategic leader Chris Kolquist has been a catalyst in driving commercial growth, positive financial results, and maximum shareholder value in challenging and hyper-competitive markets. He has built a noteworthy reputation for understanding investments, delivering ROI objectives, managing massive change, and building highly effective cultures. In 2021, Chris launched Koliway LLC, an investment and advisory firm specializing in investments, M&A transactions, board service, and advisory executive logistics work. Chris began his career with Arthur Andersen, where he served as Senior Auditor from 1998 to 2001, conducting audits, M&A transaction support, and financial due diligence for buy-side and sell-side clients. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1998 and obtained his CPA license in 2001 (now inactive). Connect with Chris Website: https://koliway.com/ Email: ckolquist@koliway.com
I'm thrilled to share some powerful insights and stories from my latest Capitalist Culture® podcast episode. This week, we dive into entrepreneurship, culture, leadership transitions, and creating real impact with Tony DiBenedetto, a seasoned operator, founder, and builder of both businesses and people.Here are the highlights you will not want to miss:Tony's Journey:• From Accounting to Entrepreneurship: Tony began his career at Arthur Andersen before launching multiple ventures, including a restaurant and truck leasing company while still employed.• Building TriBridge: What started as informal idea sessions with friends turned into TriBridge, a tech services company that scaled to $175 million in revenue and 850 employees.Building Culture as a Competitive Advantage• People Over Everything: Tony emphasized that culture, not technology, ultimately drives success.• Empathy at Scale: By genuinely understanding employees, he built a company with low turnover and high retention.• Fast Failure, Smart Growth: Out of 14 business lines launched, only 8 succeeded, reinforcing the importance of experimentation and adaptability.Mergers, Acquisitions, and Integration• There Is No “Merger”: Tony shared that most deals are acquisitions, and success depends on how well you integrate people.• Culture First Integration: Listening to and empowering acquired teams is critical to long-term success.• Lessons From Failure: A failed merger reinforced the importance of alignment and trust.Leadership Evolution and Succession• From Operator to Chairman: Tony transitioned from CEO to Executive Chairman, focusing on strategy while empowering new leadership.• Letting Go the Right Way: Great leaders create space for successors to lead independently while offering guidance when needed.• Preparing the Next Leader: Exposure, trust, and time are essential in developing strong leadership transitions.Adapting to Market Shifts• Pivoting Through Change: Tony led strategic shifts during COVID, focusing on workplace technology and communication tools.• Global Culture Building: He emphasized the importance of investing time across regions to develop local leadership and alignment.• Adaptability Wins: Businesses must evolve organically with changing market dynamics.Philanthropy and Purpose: Think Big for Kids• Breaking the Cycle of Poverty: Tony founded Think Big for Kids to help underserved youth access education and career opportunities.• Early Intervention: The program starts as early as 6th grade, exposing students to careers, mentorship, and real-world experiences.• Measurable Impact: Thousands of students across multiple states have gone on to higher education and meaningful careers.Investing in the Next Generation• Opportunity Gap: Tony believes talent is evenly distributed, but opportunity is not.• Innovative Learning: He is building a platform that uses short-form video to teach life and career skills in an engaging way.• Workforce Development: Preparing young people for meaningful work is both a social and economic imperative.Final Thoughts• Culture Is the Multiplier: Strong cultures drive retention, performance, and long-term growth.• Leadership Is Legacy: Success is measured by the leaders you develop and the lives you impact.• Purpose Beyond Profit: The greatest companies and leaders create value far beyond financial returns.Send us Fan MailConnect with Kip on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kipknippel/Watch Bite-Sized Clips on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@capitalistculture/shorts
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Robert Fitzpatrick, a Navy veteran, business consultant, fraternity brother (ΩΨΦ), and now the owner reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue legacy. The conversation dives deeply into Fitzpatrick’s upbringing, his father’s groundbreaking barbecue business in 1950s Texas, his educational and military journey, his corporate career, and his decision to launch Dewey’s Barbecue Market in Skokie, Illinois—honoring his father’s original recipes and values. The interview blends entrepreneurship, legacy, cultural history, and personal transformation, while highlighting the courage of Fitzpatrick’s father and the humility and faith-driven foundation of his family. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Inspire entrepreneurship and legacy-building Fitzpatrick’s story showcases how family heritage and values can shape a business vision across generations. 2. Highlight resilience, faith, and leadership His upbringing in a household rooted in Christian humility, strong expectations, and boundary-breaking courage provides a blueprint for character-driven success. 3. Educate listeners on transitioning careers Fitzpatrick exemplifies pivoting from engineering and corporate consulting to pursuing passion-driven entrepreneurship. 4. Promote Dewey’s Barbecue Market The interview introduces the Chicago-area community—especially the Skokie region—to his upcoming restaurant built on a 70-year-old Texas barbecue tradition. Key Takeaways 1. A powerful family legacy rooted in courage Fitzpatrick’s father, Dewey, opened a barbecue restaurant in 1951—before desegregation—and insisted that Blacks and whites could eat together. He enforced respect and safety in his establishment, even confronting racist patrons. 2. Education was non-negotiable in the Fitzpatrick household Robert is the youngest of seven siblings, all college graduates; five hold master’s degrees. He himself holds an MBA and an MS in Management Information Systems. 3. A bridge between technology and business Fitzpatrick spent decades in consulting with major firms (EDS, Dell, Arthur Andersen, KPMG) focusing on business process improvement. His dual MS/MBA made him a translator between tech and finance. 4. Military discipline shaped his personal and professional life Served in the U.S. Navy from 1986–1990, plus reserve duty (including deployment to Iraq). Balanced military service with graduate studies and advancing his corporate career. 5. A calling to revive his father’s barbecue His wife recognized his talent early, telling him for years he should be barbecuing. A shortage of good Texas barbecue in Virginia pushed him to recreate his father’s recipes. 6. Skokie, Illinois: the ideal launchpad After moving to the Great Lakes Naval Base area for a federal role, Fitzpatrick began scouting locations. Skokie offered: active support from city leadership grants an ideal building community enthusiasm 7. Dewey’s Barbecue Market offerings Meats: brisket, sausage, hot links, smoked boudin (monthly special) Sides: potato salad (egg/mayo base), pineapple vinegar coleslaw, fried okra, smoked pinto beans Desserts: apple cobbler, blueberry cobbler, sweet potato pie, possibly fried pies Bread: sliced “light bread” for dipping—traditional Texas style Experience: dine-in with 60s–80s “feel-good” music 8. A commitment to doing things the right way Fitzpatrick refuses to launch unless he can deliver “the best product on the planet.” Focuses on simplicity, authenticity, and quality. Notable Quotes About his father and legacy “He said anybody who wants to eat here can eat here.”(His father defying segregation laws in the 1950s.) “I can call an undertaker or an ambulance. Which one do you prefer?”(Dewey enforcing respect from a belligerent white customer.) “That was my barbecue.”(On being raised around his father’s legendary pit.) About family and humility “We are firmly rooted in Christ. If you try to get too big, He has a way of humbling you.” “Seven kids, all with degrees… that’s normal to you. But we know that’s not normal.”(McDonald highlighting the family’s extraordinary achievement.) About his calling “If I didn’t think I was bringing the best product on the planet, I wouldn’t even do it.” “My wife tasted the barbecue and said, ‘This is what you need to be doing.’” About launching in Skokie “They really want me to be there… the economic development team didn’t treat it like just another restaurant.” Short 3–5 Sentence Summary (For Quick Use) In his interview with Rushion McDonald, Robert Fitzpatrick shares his journey from Navy veteran and Fortune 500 consultant to entrepreneur reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue. He describes growing up with a courageous father who defied segregation in 1951 by serving Black and white customers together, and a family culture steeped in education, discipline, and humility. Fitzpatrick’s passion for barbecue and encouragement from his wife led him to bring his father’s 70-year-old recipes to Skokie, Illinois through Dewey’s Barbecue Market. The interview emphasizes legacy, faith, courage, and the pursuit of purpose. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Robert Fitzpatrick, a Navy veteran, business consultant, fraternity brother (ΩΨΦ), and now the owner reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue legacy. The conversation dives deeply into Fitzpatrick’s upbringing, his father’s groundbreaking barbecue business in 1950s Texas, his educational and military journey, his corporate career, and his decision to launch Dewey’s Barbecue Market in Skokie, Illinois—honoring his father’s original recipes and values. The interview blends entrepreneurship, legacy, cultural history, and personal transformation, while highlighting the courage of Fitzpatrick’s father and the humility and faith-driven foundation of his family. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Inspire entrepreneurship and legacy-building Fitzpatrick’s story showcases how family heritage and values can shape a business vision across generations. 2. Highlight resilience, faith, and leadership His upbringing in a household rooted in Christian humility, strong expectations, and boundary-breaking courage provides a blueprint for character-driven success. 3. Educate listeners on transitioning careers Fitzpatrick exemplifies pivoting from engineering and corporate consulting to pursuing passion-driven entrepreneurship. 4. Promote Dewey’s Barbecue Market The interview introduces the Chicago-area community—especially the Skokie region—to his upcoming restaurant built on a 70-year-old Texas barbecue tradition. Key Takeaways 1. A powerful family legacy rooted in courage Fitzpatrick’s father, Dewey, opened a barbecue restaurant in 1951—before desegregation—and insisted that Blacks and whites could eat together. He enforced respect and safety in his establishment, even confronting racist patrons. 2. Education was non-negotiable in the Fitzpatrick household Robert is the youngest of seven siblings, all college graduates; five hold master’s degrees. He himself holds an MBA and an MS in Management Information Systems. 3. A bridge between technology and business Fitzpatrick spent decades in consulting with major firms (EDS, Dell, Arthur Andersen, KPMG) focusing on business process improvement. His dual MS/MBA made him a translator between tech and finance. 4. Military discipline shaped his personal and professional life Served in the U.S. Navy from 1986–1990, plus reserve duty (including deployment to Iraq). Balanced military service with graduate studies and advancing his corporate career. 5. A calling to revive his father’s barbecue His wife recognized his talent early, telling him for years he should be barbecuing. A shortage of good Texas barbecue in Virginia pushed him to recreate his father’s recipes. 6. Skokie, Illinois: the ideal launchpad After moving to the Great Lakes Naval Base area for a federal role, Fitzpatrick began scouting locations. Skokie offered: active support from city leadership grants an ideal building community enthusiasm 7. Dewey’s Barbecue Market offerings Meats: brisket, sausage, hot links, smoked boudin (monthly special) Sides: potato salad (egg/mayo base), pineapple vinegar coleslaw, fried okra, smoked pinto beans Desserts: apple cobbler, blueberry cobbler, sweet potato pie, possibly fried pies Bread: sliced “light bread” for dipping—traditional Texas style Experience: dine-in with 60s–80s “feel-good” music 8. A commitment to doing things the right way Fitzpatrick refuses to launch unless he can deliver “the best product on the planet.” Focuses on simplicity, authenticity, and quality. Notable Quotes About his father and legacy “He said anybody who wants to eat here can eat here.”(His father defying segregation laws in the 1950s.) “I can call an undertaker or an ambulance. Which one do you prefer?”(Dewey enforcing respect from a belligerent white customer.) “That was my barbecue.”(On being raised around his father’s legendary pit.) About family and humility “We are firmly rooted in Christ. If you try to get too big, He has a way of humbling you.” “Seven kids, all with degrees… that’s normal to you. But we know that’s not normal.”(McDonald highlighting the family’s extraordinary achievement.) About his calling “If I didn’t think I was bringing the best product on the planet, I wouldn’t even do it.” “My wife tasted the barbecue and said, ‘This is what you need to be doing.’” About launching in Skokie “They really want me to be there… the economic development team didn’t treat it like just another restaurant.” Short 3–5 Sentence Summary (For Quick Use) In his interview with Rushion McDonald, Robert Fitzpatrick shares his journey from Navy veteran and Fortune 500 consultant to entrepreneur reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue. He describes growing up with a courageous father who defied segregation in 1951 by serving Black and white customers together, and a family culture steeped in education, discipline, and humility. Fitzpatrick’s passion for barbecue and encouragement from his wife led him to bring his father’s 70-year-old recipes to Skokie, Illinois through Dewey’s Barbecue Market. The interview emphasizes legacy, faith, courage, and the pursuit of purpose. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Robert Fitzpatrick, a Navy veteran, business consultant, fraternity brother (ΩΨΦ), and now the owner reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue legacy. The conversation dives deeply into Fitzpatrick’s upbringing, his father’s groundbreaking barbecue business in 1950s Texas, his educational and military journey, his corporate career, and his decision to launch Dewey’s Barbecue Market in Skokie, Illinois—honoring his father’s original recipes and values. The interview blends entrepreneurship, legacy, cultural history, and personal transformation, while highlighting the courage of Fitzpatrick’s father and the humility and faith-driven foundation of his family. Purpose of the Interview The interview aims to: 1. Inspire entrepreneurship and legacy-building Fitzpatrick’s story showcases how family heritage and values can shape a business vision across generations. 2. Highlight resilience, faith, and leadership His upbringing in a household rooted in Christian humility, strong expectations, and boundary-breaking courage provides a blueprint for character-driven success. 3. Educate listeners on transitioning careers Fitzpatrick exemplifies pivoting from engineering and corporate consulting to pursuing passion-driven entrepreneurship. 4. Promote Dewey’s Barbecue Market The interview introduces the Chicago-area community—especially the Skokie region—to his upcoming restaurant built on a 70-year-old Texas barbecue tradition. Key Takeaways 1. A powerful family legacy rooted in courage Fitzpatrick’s father, Dewey, opened a barbecue restaurant in 1951—before desegregation—and insisted that Blacks and whites could eat together. He enforced respect and safety in his establishment, even confronting racist patrons. 2. Education was non-negotiable in the Fitzpatrick household Robert is the youngest of seven siblings, all college graduates; five hold master’s degrees. He himself holds an MBA and an MS in Management Information Systems. 3. A bridge between technology and business Fitzpatrick spent decades in consulting with major firms (EDS, Dell, Arthur Andersen, KPMG) focusing on business process improvement. His dual MS/MBA made him a translator between tech and finance. 4. Military discipline shaped his personal and professional life Served in the U.S. Navy from 1986–1990, plus reserve duty (including deployment to Iraq). Balanced military service with graduate studies and advancing his corporate career. 5. A calling to revive his father’s barbecue His wife recognized his talent early, telling him for years he should be barbecuing. A shortage of good Texas barbecue in Virginia pushed him to recreate his father’s recipes. 6. Skokie, Illinois: the ideal launchpad After moving to the Great Lakes Naval Base area for a federal role, Fitzpatrick began scouting locations. Skokie offered: active support from city leadership grants an ideal building community enthusiasm 7. Dewey’s Barbecue Market offerings Meats: brisket, sausage, hot links, smoked boudin (monthly special) Sides: potato salad (egg/mayo base), pineapple vinegar coleslaw, fried okra, smoked pinto beans Desserts: apple cobbler, blueberry cobbler, sweet potato pie, possibly fried pies Bread: sliced “light bread” for dipping—traditional Texas style Experience: dine-in with 60s–80s “feel-good” music 8. A commitment to doing things the right way Fitzpatrick refuses to launch unless he can deliver “the best product on the planet.” Focuses on simplicity, authenticity, and quality. Notable Quotes About his father and legacy “He said anybody who wants to eat here can eat here.”(His father defying segregation laws in the 1950s.) “I can call an undertaker or an ambulance. Which one do you prefer?”(Dewey enforcing respect from a belligerent white customer.) “That was my barbecue.”(On being raised around his father’s legendary pit.) About family and humility “We are firmly rooted in Christ. If you try to get too big, He has a way of humbling you.” “Seven kids, all with degrees… that’s normal to you. But we know that’s not normal.”(McDonald highlighting the family’s extraordinary achievement.) About his calling “If I didn’t think I was bringing the best product on the planet, I wouldn’t even do it.” “My wife tasted the barbecue and said, ‘This is what you need to be doing.’” About launching in Skokie “They really want me to be there… the economic development team didn’t treat it like just another restaurant.” Short 3–5 Sentence Summary (For Quick Use) In his interview with Rushion McDonald, Robert Fitzpatrick shares his journey from Navy veteran and Fortune 500 consultant to entrepreneur reviving his family’s historic Texas barbecue. He describes growing up with a courageous father who defied segregation in 1951 by serving Black and white customers together, and a family culture steeped in education, discipline, and humility. Fitzpatrick’s passion for barbecue and encouragement from his wife led him to bring his father’s 70-year-old recipes to Skokie, Illinois through Dewey’s Barbecue Market. The interview emphasizes legacy, faith, courage, and the pursuit of purpose. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La conversación con Sebastián Barajas empieza con una afirmación incómoda, casi provocadora, pero profundamente honesta: el sistema educativo, tal como lo conocemos hoy, está llegando a su límite. No es una frase lanzada al aire ni una crítica superficial. Es la reflexión de alguien que lleva más de cuatro décadas vinculado al mundo de la tecnología, la empresa y el aprendizaje. Alguien que ha visto cómo cambian las organizaciones, cómo evolucionan los mercados y, sobre todo, cómo aprenden las personas.Sebastián tiene una trayectoria singular. Comenzó su carrera empresarial en los años ochenta, cuando el término “emprendimiento” ni siquiera formaba parte del lenguaje habitual. Junto a varios socios lanzó en España una aplicación de gestión financiera para empresas, un proyecto tecnológico adelantado a su tiempo que acabó siendo adquirido por Arthur Andersen, compañía que años después evolucionaría hacia lo que hoy conocemos como Accenture. Aquella experiencia lo llevó a trabajar durante una década en el ámbito de la consultoría, participando en el desarrollo de una disciplina que hoy resulta fundamental en cualquier transformación organizativa: la gestión del cambio.Ese contacto con las organizaciones y con la evolución de las personas dentro de ellas despertó en él un interés profundo por el aprendizaje y por el comportamiento humano. Con los años, ese interés cristalizó en un proyecto propio: Ubiqum, una escuela tecnológica centrada en un enfoque radicalmente distinto de aprendizaje. Una escuela construida sobre una idea sencilla pero poderosa: las personas no aprenden escuchando, aprenden haciendo.A lo largo de la conversación aparecen paralelismos constantes entre el mundo del aprendizaje y el mundo del deporte. Algo que, desde mi propia experiencia entrenando equipos, resuena con mucha claridad. Nadie aprende a lanzar tiros libres escuchando una conferencia sobre la teoría del tiro. Nadie mejora en baloncesto leyendo un manual sobre cómo botar el balón. En el deporte, entrenamos. Practicamos. Fallamos. Corregimos. Volvemos a intentar.Ese proceso —objetivo, acción, error, reflexión y mejora— es exactamente el mismo que define el aprendizaje real en cualquier ámbito.Sin embargo, el sistema educativo tradicional se construyó sobre una lógica muhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastianbarajas/y distinta. Durante décadas hemos organizado el conocimiento en asignaturas, hemos basado el aprendizaje en la transmisión de información y hemos evaluado a los alumnos mediante exámenes que premian, sobre todo, la capacidad de memorizar. Un modelo que, en su momento histórico, tuvo sentido. Pero que hoy empieza a mostrar límites muy claros.Sebastián plantea algo que invita a reflexionar con calma: el problema no es únicamente qué enseñamos, sino cómo lo enseñamos y cuándo lo enseñamos. El aprendizaje humano está profundamente vinculado a la motivación, al contexto y a la experiencia. Cuando alguien tiene un objetivo claro y significativo, está dispuesto a esforzarse, a equivocarse y a perseverar. Cuando ese objetivo no tiene sentido para la persona, el aprendizaje se convierte en un trámite.Es una diferencia fundamental.En el deporte lo vemos todos los días. Los jóvenes que llegan voluntariamente a entrenar lo hacen porque quieren mejorar. Puede que tengan dificultades, que se frustren o que les cueste gestionar el error, pero existe un motor interno que sostiene el proceso: la motivación. Esa motivación cambia completamente la relación con el esfuerzo.En cambio, cuando el aprendizaje se percibe como una obligación abstracta, desconectada de la realidad, lo que aparece con frecuencia es desinterés, ansiedad o incluso rechazo.Durante la entrevista también surge un tema que preocupa cada vez más a quienes trabajamos con jóvenes: la gestión de la frustración. Vivimos en una sociedad mucho más permisiva que hace décadas, donde la autoridad se ha transformado y donde las nuevas generaciones crecen en entornos radicalmente distintos a los de sus padres o abuelos. Eso tiene aspectos positivos, sin duda. Pero también plantea nuevos retos.Muchos niños y adolescentes tienen hoy menos tolerancia al error, menos paciencia con los procesos largos y más presión emocional. No es un fenómeno que pueda explicarse únicamente desde la escuela. Tiene que ver con la cultura, con la tecnología, con el ritmo de la sociedad y con las expectativas que generamos alrededor de ellos.Aquí aparece una de las ideas más interesantes de la conversación: el papel del profesor o del formador también está cambiando.En el modelo clásico, el docente era principalmente un transmisor de información. En el modelo que propone Sebastián —y que cada vez vemos más en entornos de aprendizaje avanzados— el profesor se convierte en algo distinto: un acompañante del proceso de aprendizaje. Alguien que guía, que da feedback, que ayuda a desbloquear problemas, que observa cómo piensa el alumno y que también acompaña la dimensión emocional del proceso.Es un cambio profundo. Porque aprender no es solo adquirir conocimiento. Aprender implica enfrentarse a la incertidumbre, equivocarse, gestionar la frustración y desarrollar confianza en la propia capacidad de mejorar.Por eso, cuando hablamos de formación —ya sea en el deporte, en la empresa o en la educación— no estamos hablando solo de contenidos. Estamos hablando de personas.También hablamos de cultura. Y cambiar la cultura, como sabemos quienes trabajamos en transformación organizativa, es probablemente lo más difícil de todo.El sistema educativo actual nació en un contexto histórico muy concreto. Muchas de sus estructuras se diseñaron en el siglo XIX, en una sociedad industrial que necesitaba orden, estandarización y transmisión masiva de conocimientos básicos. Ese sistema permitió algo extraordinario: democratizar el acceso a la educación y abrir oportunidades a millones de personas.Pero el mundo en el que vivimos hoy es radicalmente distinto.La tecnología, la inteligencia artificial y la velocidad de los cambios están transformando el tipo de habilidades que realmente marcan la diferencia: la capacidad de aprender continuamente, de pensar de forma crítica, de adaptarse y de resolver problemas reales.Eso obliga a replantear muchas de las estructuras que damos por sentadas.Sebastián lo plantea con claridad: probablemente no existe una solución única ni un modelo perfecto diseñado de antemano. Lo que necesitamos es experimentar, probar, aprender de los errores y construir nuevas formas de aprendizaje basadas en la realidad.Curiosamente, ese enfoque se parece mucho al que utilizan las mejores empresas tecnológicas cuando desarrollan productos. Se empieza con una versión inicial, se observa cómo funciona, se corrige, se mejora y se vuelve a probar. Proceso iterativo. Aprendizaje continuo.Exactamente lo mismo que ocurre cuando un deportista entrena.Al final de la conversación aparece una reflexión que, personalmente, me parece muy potente. Durante décadas hemos asumido que el sistema educativo es algo fijo, algo que simplemente existe y que debemos aceptar tal como es. Pero quizá ha llegado el momento de volver a hacernos preguntas.Preguntas sobre cómo aprenden las personas.Preguntas sobre qué tipo de educación prepara realmente para la vida.Preguntas sobre cómo acompañar a las nuevas generaciones para que desarrollen no solo conocimiento, sino también criterio, resiliencia y capacidad de adaptación.Son preguntas incómodas. Pero también necesarias.Porque educar, formar o entrenar —ya sea en una empresa, en un equipo deportivo o en un aula— no consiste solo en transmitir información. Consiste en desarrollar personas capaces de enfrentarse a un mundo complejo.Y eso requiere liderazgo.Si este tema te interesa, te invito a escuchar la conversación completa. Hay muchas más ideas, ejemplos y reflexiones que merecen ser exploradas con calma. Estoy convencido de que, tanto si eres formador, directivo, entrenador o simplemente alguien que cree en el poder del aprendizaje, encontrarás en ella muchas preguntas que merece la pena seguir pensando.Hoy, con todos nosotros, Sebastián Barajas Caseny.¿Hablamos? https://tatxe.org/contactar Colaborar: https://buy.stripe.com/bIYbLr83U1Sv2w88wxSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/tatxe/exclusive-content
In this episode of The Distribution, Brandon Sedloff sits down with Henry Steinberg, Global Head of EQT Real Estate, to discuss the evolution of one of the world's largest real estate investment platforms. Henry shares the story of his path into the industry, from consulting and business school to building a career in logistics real estate through Liberty Property Trust and Exeter Property Group before merging with EQT in 2021. The conversation explores how sector specialization, operational expertise, and scale have shaped EQT Real Estate's strategy today. Henry also explains how data, geospatial analytics, and AI are transforming investment decisions across global real estate markets. They discuss:• Henry's career journey from Arthur Andersen consulting to real estate investing• The history from Liberty Property Trust to Exeter Property Group and the merger with EQT• Why specialization in logistics real estate created a durable competitive advantage• How EQT uses geospatial data and analytics to evaluate acquisitions and development opportunities• Market outlook for logistics, student housing, and data centers across the US and Europe Links: EQT Real Estate - https://eqtgroup.com/real-estate Henry on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/henry-steinberg-5653ba223/ Brandon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsedloff/ Juniper Square - https://www.junipersquare.com/ Topics: (00:00:00) - Intro(00:01:58) - Henry's background and career(00:15:31) - Liberty to Exeter origins(00:20:46) - Exeter growth and EQT merger(00:24:49) - Eqt platform and scale(00:26:26) - Real estate strategy mix(00:27:16) - Diversifying beyond logistics(00:27:44) - Living and logistics growth(00:31:17) - Scale through data and AI(00:39:10) - Geospatial data edge(00:43:52) - Student housing signals(00:46:14) - Logistics outlook US vs Europe(00:52:06) - Build or buy expansion
Kenji Kuramoto is the Founder and former CEO of Acuity, a pioneering outsourced accounting and fractional CFO firm that built and maintained financial functions for thousands of innovative entrepreneurs. Under his leadership, Acuity became one of Accounting Today's Top Firms for Technology and a Top Firm to Work For, before merging into Sorren in 2025. In this episode, Kenji joins Jason M. Blumer, CPA, to unpack what really happens when you step away from something that's still working. He shares the full story behind Acuity's 20-year journey, the decision to run a proactive merger process, and why he ultimately chose not to continue into the next chapter with Sorren—despite being Acuity's founder and leading the proactive merger process. The conversation explores the emotional reality of leadership transitions: identity loss, grief, relief, clarity, and the discipline required to not hold on too long. Kenji reflects on the surprisingly anticlimactic nature of closing day, the importance of timing your exit well, and how staying deeply connected to the profession helped him navigate life after stepping away. Today, Kenji is an investor, founder, and advisor focused on reimagining the future of the accounting profession. He is the founder of 404 Invests, an early-stage investment firm backing Accounting Technology, SaaS, FinTech, and Crypto companies. Earlier in his career, Kenji served as CFO of an Inc. 5000 tech company and began in the assurance practice at Arthur Andersen. If you're a firm owner considering succession, a merger, retirement, or your own next chapter as a leader, this episode offers rare honesty and perspective you won't often hear.
AI is revolutionizing how health information is managed. Utilizing sophisticated algorithms, it can assist professionals in making more informed decisions. For instance, optical character recognition (OCR) can read and interpret medical records, identifying potential compliance issues and ensuring every page represents the correct patient. In this episode, host Sandy Vance chats with Anupriyo Chakravarti, the Chief Technology and Product Officer at Verisma, about how healthcare organizations can use intelligent automation to reduce risk and uncover compliance gaps in order to free staff to work at the top of their license. In this episode, they talk about: What Verisma can do for healthcare organizations Use case examples Some of the risks Verisma mitigates by finding missteps like unauthorized disclosures AI is taking over the world of informatics Enabling people to work at the top of their license is critical People are not anti-AI, they are anti-opacity A Little About Anupriyo: Anupriyo Chakravarti joined Verisma Systems, Inc. in 2017 as the Senior Vice President of Research and Development. Anupriyo brings 25 years of experience as a highly effective leader in healthcare IT product management and software development for Fortune 500 companies and startups. Anupriyo joined Verisma after serving as vice president of product management and marketing at McKesson, where he led the product management and marketing functions of the Extended Care Services (ECS) business unit. Before McKesson, he worked for 11 years at Surgical Information Systems (SIS), where he led software development, and ultimately product management, to deliver solutions for the surgery and anesthesia departments at health systems and ambulatory surgery centers. Prior to working with SIS, Anupriyo worked for Arthur Andersen, Ryder Dedicated Logistics, IBM and TATA Motors. Anupriyo has a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from IIT Roorkee in India.
Dating again in midlife can stir up a mix of curiosity, hope, and very real hesitation. After divorce, it's not just about meeting someone new, it's about trusting your instincts and believing that love can feel different this time. Susan Guthrie welcomes back one of Divorce & Beyond's most trusted and favorite guests, Bela Gandhi, for an honest, encouraging conversation about what it truly takes to move from fear to confidence when dating again in midlife. Known as America's go-to dating coach and beloved by the Divorce & Beyond community, Bela brings warmth, optimism, and refreshingly practical wisdom to a chapter that often feels overwhelming. Together, Susan and Bela unpack why midlife dating can actually be better than ever, how to stop repeating old patterns that no longer serve you, and what smart, intentional dating looks like when you're choosing differently and more consciously this time around. What You'll Learn Why fear around dating after divorce is normal How those “rollercoaster butterflies” are usually a sign of anxiety, not chemistry, and how to recognize calm as a healthier sign of compatibility How dating today offers more options, visibility, and agency than ever before, especially for midlife daters Why confidence in dating comes from having a clear plan, not luck, timing, or instant sparks How slowing down and allowing connection to develop over time leads to better long-term outcomes About the Guest Bela Gandhi is a dating/relationship expert, TEDx speaker, founder of Smart Dating AcademyÒ and has been featured on most national/local media outlets including Good Morning America, Steve Harvey, the Today Show, Kelly Clarkson, Access, ABC, NBC, Fox, and more. Bela realized her gift for love when she was in college and started matchmaking and coaching her friends – watching them sail on to relationship bliss and marriage. Using her own system, Bela found her own amazing husband of over 20 years, and in 2009, founded Smart Dating AcademyÒ. Smart Dating Academy teaches singles all over the globe the Smart DatingÒ four phase system – 1) Preparing to Date, 2) Dating, 3) Exclusivity and 4) Happily Ever After. They specialize in VIP 1:1 coaching, and with clients that have followed their system, they've had ‘zero divorces.' They help singles to ‘fix their pickers' because their coaches are deep in the weeds with clients, helping read profiles, message, and rate each date after it happens – she makes dating fun, easy and successful! Before starting Smart Dating Academy, Bela earned dual degrees in Finance and German from the University of Illinois in Urbana/Champaign. Bela worked in mergers and acquisitions for Arthur Andersen in Chicago for a year before joining her family's chemicals manufacturing company (called CCC), where she divided her time between Chicago and Europe helping to expand the business. When they sold the business to Fortune 500 company Akzo Nobel, she was asked to remain its leader and became Akzo Nobel Non-Stick Coating's Global Vice President of Housewares. While climbing the corporate ladder, she realized it was time to unveil her system to the world, and it was her best decision ever. Bela lives in Lincoln Park with her husband Andy and 2 children, Jaden and Max, and is going to be an empty nester next year! Connect with Bela Gandhi Website: http://smartdatingacademy.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy Podcast: https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/podcast The Midlife Dating Mindset Reset Guide Download Make the Most of Your Listening Experience: If this episode resonates with you, be sure to: Subscribe to Divorce & Beyond so you never miss an episode. Share this episode with friends or loved ones who need hope and healing. Leave a 5-star review to help us reach even more listeners. Follow Us Online: Divorce & Beyond: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com, IG: @divorceandbeyondpod Meet Our Host Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation's leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant. Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC's Chicago Today, among many others. As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope. Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com. Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond! ***************************************************************************** A Smarter, Simpler Way to Navigate Your Divorce Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through your divorce? Check out Hello Divorce. Their guided online platform combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support to help you complete your divorce with less stress, less confusion, and far lower costs than a traditional courtroom battle. They have created a special page just for Divorce & Beyond listeners. Explore your options at hellodivorce.com/susan. ***************************************************************************** Special Offer from Blue Mercury Treat yourself to luxury skincare, makeup, and fragrance favorites from Blue Mercury, your destination for beauty and self-care. Divorce & Beyond listeners receive 15% off their first order when they use the special link in the show notes. Because you deserve to look and feel your best, inside and out. You must use this link to receive the 15% off on your first Blue Mercury order: https://divorcebeyond.com/Blue-Mercury ***************************************************************************** Opportunities for Expert Guests and Fellow Podcasters Partner with Divorce & Beyond Whether you're a podcaster looking to expand your reach or an expert ready to share your insights, Divorce & Beyond offers the perfect platform to amplify your voice. Find out more here: https://divorceandbeyondpod.com/guest-opportunities ***************************************************************************** DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM
What if the IRS already allows you to write off far more of your real estate, but no one ever showed you how?In today's episode, Tait Duryae sits down with Gian Pazzia to break down cost segregation in plain English and explain why it remains one of the most powerful tax strategies for real estate investors. Building on last week's depreciation primer with Hall CPA, this episode covers how cost segregation works, when it makes sense, audit risk myths, and how pilots can apply it to everything from single-family rentals to commercial deals. You'll also learn about a new, low-cost software option that makes cost seg accessible to smaller investors.Gian Pazzia is a structural engineer and tax strategist with over 25 years of experience specializing in cost segregation studies. He is the founder of KBKG, one of the largest cost segregation firms in the country. Gian began his career at Arthur Andersen, working on large-scale commercial projects, and has since helped thousands of real estate investors legally accelerate depreciation and reduce tax liability through IRS-compliant strategies.Show notes:(0:00) Intro(2:18) Why cost segregation matters(5:46) Cost seg vs straight-line depreciation(8:39) What assets qualify for write-offs(10:18) IRS-approved depreciation methods(14:54) Land value impact on tax benefits(19:24) Cost seg for small properties(25:32) Audit risk explained clearly(34:04) Using cost seg on older properties(37:40) DIY software walkthrough(39:10) OutroConnect with Gian:Website: https://www.kbkg.com/management/gian-pazzia Cost Segregation Software: https://www.costsegregation.com/ Promo Code: PILOTSCODE (10% off for first-time users)Related Episode:#144 - Depreciation, Cost Segs, and the IRS Rules Pilots Miss with Brandon HallIf you're interested in participating, the latest institutional-quality self-storage portfolio is available for investment now at: https://turbinecap.investnext.com/portal/offerings/8449/houston-storage/ — You've found the number one resource for financial education for aviators! Please consider leaving a rating and sharing this podcast with your colleagues in the aviation community, as it can serve as a valuable resource for all those involved in the industry.Remember to subscribe for more insights at PassiveIncomePilots.com! https://passiveincomepilots.com/ Join our growing community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/passivepilotsCheck us out on Instagram @PassiveIncomePilots: https://www.instagram.com/passiveincomepilots/Follow us on X @IncomePilots: https://twitter.com/IncomePilotsGet our updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/passive-income-pilots/Do you have questions or want to discuss this episode? Contact us at ask@passiveincomepilots.com See you at the next one!*Legal Disclaimer*The content of this podcast is provided solely for educational and informational purposes. The views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts, Tait Duryea and Ryan Gibson, and do not reflect those of any organization they are associated with, including Turbine Capital or Spartan Investment Group. The opinions of our guests are their own and should not be construed as financial advice. This podcast does not offer tax, legal, or investment advice. Listeners are advised to consult with their own legal or financial counsel and to conduct their own due diligence before making any financial decisions.
How does God want you to show up for His Kingdom? In this episode, Jeff and Craig discuss: Restructuring your life to give more.Talking with trusted mentors when you're uncertain.Listening to God's voice. Making an intentional downshift financially. Key Takeaways: Is your dream life actually serving you, your family, and the kingdom? God is with you always - abide in Him. You can utilize the skills God has given you at many different levels.Be open to learning God's path. It doesn't have to be big, it doesn't have to be expensive. Just start exploring options. "Be open to learning - these things take time." — Craig Spencer Episode References: Practicing the Way: https://www.practicingtheway.org/ About Craig Spencer: Craig is very blessed to be an apprentice of Jesus and is ardently seeking to follow him more closely each day. Craig's background is in finance & accounting, having begun his career in public accounting and then working with public and private companies in various leadership capacities. Craig shifted to working in the nonprofit space in 2011, where he's had the opportunity to use the skills developed in the corporate world to make an impact in communities across Colorado. Craig currently works with Parent Possible, which oversees and promotes home visiting and parent engagement programs through over 30 sites across Colorado to help Colorado parents reach their potential as their child's most important teacher, trainer, and mentor. Craig is involved with his church in leading classes on discipleship and serving on mission trips around the world. Craig and his wife have been blessed with 37 years of marriage, two kids, Christina & Brandon, and three grandchildren, Levi, Lila, and Noah. Industries - Craig's industry experience includes financial services, retail and wholesale distribution, oil and gas, nonprofit, education, manufacturing, technology, and professional services. He has held the positions of CAO, CFO & COO in publicly owned, privately-owned, and nonprofit businesses. Specialties and Background - Craig is a seasoned professional with a creative mind who thinks outside the box to envision what can be. One of his specialties is venturing into companies experiencing operational and financial challenges and actively listening and working with leadership and support team members to note root causes and potential opportunities. Craig is comfortable rolling up his sleeves and getting into the details while also standing back and having an eye for the bigger picture, strategic viewpoint. He excels at developing innovative, sustainable solutions and then working with management to train personnel to carry those solutions into the future.Craig has worked on analyzing and integrating over 20 acquisitions, initial public offerings, and the structuring and reorganization of businesses, which have led to their successful sales to larger organizations.Craig began his career with Arthur Andersen, where he worked for twelve years in the Audit and Business Advisory Services group and helped to develop and grow its Structured Finance practice. Education - Craig graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a BBA in Finance and Accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant (currently inactive). Interests - Craig enjoys volunteering with nonprofits and his church, spending time with his family, road & mountain biking, snowboarding, and the great outdoors of Colorado. Connect with Craig Spencer:Website: https://c2solves.com/ & https://parentpossible.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-spencer-aa378411/ Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw
This week, we interviewed Dave Sparkman. Dave is the founder and managing director of SPARK Your Culture, a corporate culture advisory services firm, specializing in helping organizations transform and flourish through healthy, high-performance cultures. In his corporate career, Dave served as the SVP, Culture at UnitedHealth Group, a Fortune 5 public company based in Minnetonka, MN. Over 9 years in that role, he led efforts to infuse an over 300,000 person organization with a corporate mission and values that would improve corporate results, including the customer and employee experience. Prior to UnitedHealth Group, Dave lived in Los Angeles and served as the partner responsible for the West Region Human Resources function at Arthur Andersen, a worldwide audit, tax, and consulting firm. He also currently serves as the volunteer Executive Director and Board Chair for Crossroads Career, a faith-based, job transition ministry dedicated to helping people who are unfulfilled or unemployed. Dave and his wife, Carrie, have four adult children and five grandchildren.
Is private equity turning firms into a 'dumpster fire'? Blake and David unpack Accounting Today's survey showing partners are upbeat while staff are sour on PE. They hit Andersen's $176M IPO, why Big Four ties to Big Tech raise independence questions, and how AI could finally kill the billable hour. Plus, what tax pros really charge in 2025 - and the wild 'Middle Finger Ranch' fraud.SponsorsOnPay - http://accountingpodcast.promo/onpay Cloud Accountant Staffing - http://accountingpodcast.promo/casChapters(00:56) - Private Equity in Accounting Firms (01:51) - Sponsor Message: OnPay Payroll Solutions (04:15) - Arthur Andersen's Legacy and IPO (07:45) - Private Equity Survey Results (21:04) - Big Four and Tech Giants (28:25) - Pricing Models for CAS Engagements (30:22) - Tax Preparers' Fees Breakdown (36:12) - Cloud Accountant Staffing (37:34) - Economic Growth and Consumer Spending (40:26) - Fraud Stories: Middle Finger Ranch and More (43:24) - PCAOB Budget Cuts and Enforcement Actions (52:29) - IRS Readiness for Tax Season (53:43) - Conclusion and Upcoming Topics Show NotesPE in accounting firms: From 'dumpster fire' to excitementhttps://www.accountingtoday.com/news/pe-in-accounting-firms-from-dumpster-fire-to-excitement Andersen Group Shares Gain 47% After $176 Million US IPOhttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-12-17/andersen-group-shares-jump-34-after-176-million-us-ipo Andersen goes public, hits $2.6B valuationhttps://thefinancestory.com/andersen-group-ipo-2-6b-valuation The Big Four consulting firms are embedded in Big Tech. Here's who audits each of the Magnificent 7 companieshttps://www.businessinsider.com/big-four-accounting-audits-magnificent-seven-financial-records-2025-12 What do tax preparers charge? https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/what-do-tax-preparers-charge How much do tax professionals charge in 2025? Insights from NATP's Fee Studyhttps://www.natptax.com/news-insights/blog/how-much-do-tax-professionals-charge-in-2025-insights-from-natp-s-fee-study/ U.S. economic growth surges in third quarter to 4.3%https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/12/23/gdp-economy-consumer-spending/ The US economy expanded at the fastest pace in two years as wealthier Americans kept spending https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/23/economy/us-gdp-q3 Kansas accountant diverted family funds to fictitious 'Middle Finger Ranch'https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-accountant-diverted-family-funds-to-fictitious-middle-finger-ranch/ Kansas Accountant, Who Created Fictitious 'Middle Finger Ranch' for Fraud Scheme, Sentenced to 4 Years in Jailhttps://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/2025/12/04/kansas-accountant-who-created-fictitious-middle-finger-ranch-for-fraud-scheme-sentenced-to-4-years/174381/ PCAOB to tighten budget in 2026 https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/pcaob-to-tighten-budget-in-2026 PCAOB Approves 2026 Budget https://pcaobus.org/news-events/news-releases/news-release-detail/pcaob-approves-2026-budget Accounting Firms Must Stop Charging for Timehttps://cpatrendlines.com/2025/12/02/accounting-firms-must-stop-charging-for-time/ Dirty money gangster jailed over plot worth almost £12mhttps://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/dirty-money-gangster-jailed-over-36410033 PCAOB Sanctions CPA for Violations Related to Audit Evidence and Her Former Audit Firm for Quality Control Issueshttps://pcaobus.org/news-events/news-releases/news-release-detail/pcaob-sanctions-cpa-for-violations-related-to-audit-evidence-and-her-former-audit-firm-for-quality-control-issues Ahead of Tax Filing Season, Warren, King, 15 Senators Warn of Tax Filing Chaos After Trump Admin Attacks on IRShttps://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ahead-of-tax-filing-season-warren-king-15-senators-warn-of-tax-filing-chaos-after-trump-admin-attacks-on-irsNeed CPE?Get CPE for listening to podcasts with Earmark: https://earmarkcpe.comSubscribe to the Earmark Podcast: https://podcast.earmarkcpe.comGet in TouchThanks for listening and the great reviews! We appreciate you! Follow and tweet @BlakeTOliver and @DavidLeary. Find us on Facebook and Instagram. If you like what you hear, please do us a favor and write a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser. Call us and leave a voicemail; maybe we'll play it on the show. DIAL (202) 695-1040.SponsorshipsAre you interested in sponsoring The Accounting Podcast? For details, read the prospectus.Need Accounting Conference Info?&n...
Stijn Schmitz welcomes Brett Rentmeester to the show. Brett is the Founder of WindRock Wealth Management. Their conversation centers on the current economic landscape, highlighting critical challenges facing the global financial system, particularly the United States. Rentmeester argues that the economy has fundamentally changed since the mid-1970s, when the dollar decoupled from gold. Since then, the economic system has relied increasingly on debt and money printing, creating an unsustainable financial structure. He points to several systemic issues, including declining real wages, skyrocketing costs in healthcare and education, and massive government debt that is increasingly difficult to service. Stijn explores potential scenarios for economic transformation, presenting two primary paths: proactive systemic change or a potential catastrophic reset. Brett suggests we are in a “fourth turning” moment—a generational shift where existing institutions are losing public trust and facing potential fundamental restructuring. A key theme is the potential return to “sound money,” potentially through tokenized gold, cryptocurrency, or a new monetary system backed by hard assets. Brett believes there’s a significant likelihood of monetary reimagination within the next five to ten years, driven by increasing public dissatisfaction with current economic structures. For individual investors, he recommends a diversified approach: maintaining investments in traditional assets while also acquiring hard assets like gold, silver, and real estate. The strategy involves having “one foot in the existing system and one foot out,” preparing for potential significant economic disruption. Regarding potential global conflict, Rentmeester hopes for a collaborative reset rather than a destructive war cycle, emphasizing the importance of proactive monetary reform. His overall message is one of cautious preparation, understanding that while the current system faces significant challenges, there are potential pathways to a more stable economic future. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:03 – Times of Great Change 00:02:33 – Debt Saturation Discussion 00:04:33 – Cracks in Society 00:08:11 – Demographic Challenges 00:11:16 – Fiat Money Creation 00:12:31 – Gold Standard History 00:14:00 – Central Banks Gold Buying 00:15:38 – Crony Capitalism Critique 00:16:44 – US Debt Mathematics 00:20:50 – Why Now Inflection 00:24:56 – Future Paths Outlined 00:28:42 – Global Power Shifts 00:42:03 – Portfolio Construction Strategies Guest Links: Website: https://windrockwealth.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettrentmeester/ Brett Rentmeester founded WindRock Wealth Management to bring tailored investment solutions to investors seeking an edge in an increasingly uncertain world. Mr. Rentmeester is a veteran and entrepreneur in the investment business. Through his career, including as a co-founder of Altair Advisers and manager at Arthur Andersen, he was a trusted confidant for business owners, entrepreneurs and family offices. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to create and build a number of successful companies in the financial services industry through partnership with the Jaggi Family Office, where he serves as the Chief Investment Officer. Throughout his career, he has focused on the importance of strong relationships, strategic thinking, and an expertise in alternative investments. Mr. Rentmeester's media appearances include appearances on the PBS Nightly Business Report program, the Chicago Tribune, and the World Presidents' Organization. He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Arizona with a degree in Finance and earned his MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg Graduate School of Management. He has been a multiple-year recipient of the Chicago Magazine Five Star Wealth Award, is a Chartered Financial Analyst charterholder (CFA®) and has the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst designation (CAIA®).
In this episode of the IoT For All Podcast, Barry Libert, Chairman and CEO of HiveMQ, joins Ryan Chacon to discuss moving past the pilot phase in industrial IoT and AI. The conversation covers viewing businesses as data streaming entities, the importance of understanding one's data collection processes, aligning different tiers of employees to achieve success, the shift from connectivity to AI data platforms, the role of agentic workflows, and the type of leadership required to navigate the evolving landscape of data and AI.Barry Libert is the Chairman and CEO of HiveMQ. He has spent 40+ years as a board member, CEO, and serial entrepreneur. He founded and exited several businesses, advised more than 350 CEOs, and served on more than 35 boards in his career. Most recently, Barry transformed Anaconda into a unicorn, adding $100M in new ARR in 18 months based on a proprietary open- source/open-core commercialization GTM playbook he co-designed and implemented.Barry is focused on AI platforms with network effects and data moats. He has co-authored 6 books, 20+ ebooks, and 500+ articles in the WSJ, NYT, HBR, MIT, and Forbes. He has appeared on CNN, CNBC, Fox, NPR, and delivered 500+ speeches to 250,000+ people globally. Barry began his career with McKinsey & Company, was a managing director of John Hancock's $2B Real Estate Equity arm, and was a partner at Arthur Andersen. Barry is a graduate of Tufts University (BA) and Columbia University (MBA).HiveMQ is the Industrial AI Platform helping enterprises move from connected devices to intelligent operations. Built on the MQTT standard and a distributed edge-to-cloud architecture, HiveMQ connects and governs industrial data in real time, enabling organizations to act with intelligence. With proven reliability, scalability, and interoperability, HiveMQ provides the foundation industrial companies need to operationalize AI, powering the next generation of intelligent industry. Global leaders including Audi, BMW, Eli Lilly, Liberty Global, Mercedes-Benz, and Siemens trust HiveMQ to run their most mission-critical operations.Discover more about IoT and AI at https://www.iotforall.comFind IoT solutions: https://marketplace.iotforall.comMore about HiveMQ: https://www.hivemq.comConnect with Barry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrylibert/Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2NlcEwmJoin Our Newsletter: https://newsletter.iotforall.comFollow Us on Social: https://linktr.ee/iot4all
Motheo Khoaripe speaks to Isaah Mhlanga, Chief Economist at RMB about the recent uptick in South African business confidence and what it means for the economy going forward. In other interviews, FNB CEO Harry Kellan, talks about his career from audit manager at Arthur Andersen to HSBC associate director, joining FNB in 2005, becoming CFO at 35, serving over a decade as FirstRand Group CFO, and now leading FNB since April 2024. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape. Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa Follow us on social media 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Motheo Khoaripe interviews FNB CEO Harry Kellan, who reflects on his career from audit manager at Arthur Andersen to HSBC associate director, joining FNB in 2005, becoming CFO at 35, serving over a decade as FirstRand Group CFO, and now leading FNB since April 2024. He discusses his leadership philosophy, digital banking’s growth in South Africa, and FNB’s status as the country’s top retail bank. Kellan holds a Bachelor of Accounting (Honours) from Wits. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape. Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa Follow us on social media 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, we're back in Lisbon, Portugal, and chatting with Gestalt coach Anil Erkan. Anil has over 25 years of corporate experience, and this includes international coaching roles since mid-2021. His clients include executives from Google, American Express, BP, Mars, AT&T, and other Fortune 500 companies. He has contributed extensively to leadership programs, as well as culture change projects, and voluntarily coaches young talent leaders. With almost 2,000 hours of coaching experience, Anil has a background in internal audit and risk management from his tenure at Arthur Andersen, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and Citibank. Visit the C4C website to gain full access to the transcript, show notes, and guest links. Coaching 4 Companies
Derek's guest this week is Jack Daly. Jack talks with Derek about his first sales job at age 7, living a life "by design", and key insights from his book "Hyper Sales Growth".Jack Daly is a leading sales speaker and trainer with over 30 years of sales and executive experience. Jack's track record is a testament to his real-world knowledge and extensive expertise in sales and sales management. He started his professional journey at CPA firm Arthur Andersen and rose to the CEO level of several corporations, building six companies into national firms along the way, two of which he subsequently sold to the Wall Street firms of Solomon Brothers and First Boston.In addition to his comprehensive professional background, Jack holds a BS in Accounting, as well as an MBA, and was a Captain in the U.S. Army. Jack Daly is an Amazon Best Selling Author and has written and contributed to many books, including Hyper Sales Growth and The Sales Playbook for Hyper Sales Growth. Jack is a 15-time Ironman competitor and has completed over 93 marathons in 49 states and on six continents. He achieves these goals and lives life to the fullest by following his own Life by Design techniques.Learn more at https://jackdalysales.com/Business Leadership Series Intro and Outro music provided by Just Off Turner: https://music.apple.com/za/album/the-long-walk-back/268386576
Episode 119: This week, Kyle Van Pelt talks with Eric Kittner, CEO and Chairman of the Board at Moneta Group. Eric began his career at Arthur Andersen and RubinBrown before joining Moneta in 2003. Since becoming Managing Partner in 2018, Eric has led Moneta through a period of remarkable growth, expanding from a single Midwest office to multiple national markets and more than doubling its AUM. Eric talks with Kyle about Moneta's comprehensive service model and how they've operationally mastered the 'quarterback' role for clients. He also shares the firm's geographic growth strategy and the importance of in-office culture for developing the next generation of advisors. From tax strategy to tech adoption to developing next-gen talent, Eric reveals what it really takes to grow a firm that never loses its human touch. In this episode: (00:00) - Intro (03:11) - Eric's money moment (05:33) - Lessons from Arthur Andersen: culture, training, and crisis opportunity (08:10) - How tax strategy shapes Moneta's approach to serving clients (09:09) - Building a truly comprehensive service model (11:39) - Why Moneta has never taken private equity money (13:43) - Moneta's intentional growth strategy: Go deep, not wide (16:16) - What makes a perfect cultural and business fit for Moneta partnerships (20:50) - Growing next-gen talent through flexibility and connection (25:11) - Recruiting vs. developing future advisors (30:30) - How Moneta leverages technology (33:40) - The biggest tech drag on the advisor experience (36:31) - Eric's outlook on the future of wealth management (40:57) - What makes one RIA different from another (44:01) - Eric's Milemarker Minute Key Takeaways Independence is not just a label—it's a mindset. Whether you're solo or part of a large firm, true independence comes from making decisions that align with your clients' best interests, not outside pressures or short-term gains. Culture is a foundation. Processes and tech can be copied. Culture can't. The way your team behaves when no one's watching determines how clients experience your firm. Intentional growth leads to sustainable success. It's easy to chase expansion or new tech for the sake of momentum. The best leaders grow deliberately, aligning every move with purpose, people, and long-term vision. Technology should create time. Use tools that simplify and elevate human connection, not replace it. The future of advice belongs to firms that blend empathy with efficiency. Quotes "To us, culture is not a mythical figure. Culture is the total of your behavior on a day-to-day basis." ~ Eric Kittner "We've been very intentional about doing what we do really well, being that quarterback, providing that advice, and coordinating the resources." ~ Eric Kittner "The title on your business card is what it is. When a client reaches out to you, that's when you are their advisor." ~ Eric Kittner Links Eric Kittner on LinkedIn Moneta Group Andersen Outliers: The Story of Success Leaders Eat Last Connect with our hosts Milemarker.co Kyle on LinkedIn Jud on LinkedIn Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Produce game-changing content with Turncast Turncast helps your company grow by producing top-quality content and fostering transformative conversations. We specialize in content generation, podcasting, digital strategy, and audience growth for fintech and financial services companies. Learn more at Turncast.com.
How Mastering Foreclosure and Tax Sale Overages Led This Investor to Move to Puerto Rico - #256 In this episode of The Real Estate Reserve Podcast, hosts Jason and Ian sit down with Bob Diamond, a seasoned real estate attorney and investor now living in Puerto Rico, to unpack how mastering foreclosure and tax sale overages turned into a lucrative real estate business—and ultimately gave him the freedom to live in paradise. Bob shares his journey from working at Arthur Andersen to building a real estate empire through foreclosure auctions, tax sale investing, and recovering excess funds for homeowners. He breaks down how overages work, why most people don't even know they're owed money, and how investors can turn this overlooked niche into a profitable venture.
Growing Your Firm | Strategies for Accountants, CPA's, Bookkeepers , and Tax Professionals
Douglas Slaybaugh began his career in public accounting at Arthur Andersen, where he admits he nearly lost his internship due to chronic lateness. Mentors stepped in and advocated for him, giving him another chance. That early experience showed him how powerful support and mentorship can be. As he advanced through his career and became a partner, Slaybaugh discovered that coaching people brought him more fulfillment than signing audit reports. He developed internal coaching programs for hundreds of employees, focusing on leadership and personal growth. In 2014, he made a bold decision to leave his partner role and launch CPA Coach, helping accounting leaders and executives achieve greater purpose and balance in their work.
Trust in institutions, says Chris Long, professor at St. John's University in New York City and a leading scholar on trust, control, and institutional contradictions, erodes when there's a gap between what organizations say and what they actually do. These “institutional contradictions”, when stated values and real-world behaviour diverge, create confusion and cynicism among citizens and employees alike. In this conversation, Chris explores why such contradictions are so damaging, how they emerge, and what leaders can do to repair the trust that's lost as a result. He refers to striking examples: from the Dutch childcare benefits scandal (het Toeslagenschandaal), where automated systems falsely labeled thousands of families as fraudsters, often targeting those with foreign-sounding names, to the Volkswagen emissions case, Germany's Wirecard collapse, and earlier accounting scandals such as Arthur Andersen. These moments, he argues, are not just technical failures but moral ones: “Institutions must first acknowledge what went wrong, in detail, and explain the logic that led to it. Only then can corrective actions sound credible.” They show how technology, bureaucracy, and misaligned incentives can devastate public trust together. Chris also discusses the fine line between control and trust inside organizations. After Covid, many leaders demanded employees return to the office without consultation, framing control as discipline rather than dialogue. Absolute trust, he insists, grows when people are given a voice and when leaders show vulnerability, asking for people's opinions, and showing how those opinions shape their decisions. From the Tylenol crisis of the 1980s to modern corporate and political scandals, Chris's message is consistent: trust is rebuilt only through visible accountability, transparency, and shared ownership of mistakes.
Selling Commercial Real Estate On Long Island? Ron Koenigsberg Was Born To Be Your Broker!What happens when accounting discipline collides with New York hustle? Meet Ron Koenigsberg, CCIM — the brash NYC commercial real estate broker who built one of Long Island's fastest-growing firms, American Investment Properties.What happens when accounting discipline collides with New York hustle?Meet Ron Koenigsberg, CCIM — the brash NYC commercial real estate broker who built one of Long Island's fastest-growing firms, American Investment Properties.And Ron has achieved all of his success, battling along the way to overcome dyslexia!From his early days at Arthur Andersen to managing $360M in acquisitions for Chiyoda Life, Ron has mastered the numbers, the strategy, and the art of the deal. His journey includes:
Welcome back to the Alt Goes Mainstream podcast.Today's episode is with one of the executives who has helped to build one of the industry's leading alternative asset managers.We sat down in Permira's London office with Co-CEO Dipan Patel to discuss the firm's evolution and how the business has grown to over €80B in AUM.Dipan brings a deep background in private equity investing to bear as he and his Co-CEO Brian Ruder now lead the firm through its next phase of growth.Dipan joined Permira from Gores Group and is Co-Managing Partner and Co-CEO of the firm. He serves on Permira Holdings Limited Board and Permira's Investment Committee and Executive Committee. He's focused on technology and services investing, working on deals such as Renaissance Learning, Informatica, Axiom, AllTrails, Ancestry, LegalZoom, and more.Dipan and I had a thought-provoking conversation about what it takes to build and run a scaled alternative asset manager and how to differentiate a firm and a culture. We discussed:The founding story of Permira and the evolution of the firm since spinning out of Schroder Ventures in 1996.How the firm's beginnings have shaped the culture that has been built and how that culture has permeated how they make investment decisions, work with companies, founders, and LPs.How would an LP underwrite Permira's culture?How the firm's European heritage helps as an investor.The opportunity set in Europe.The investment culture at Permira and how its structure and set up helps investment processes and decision-making.Why software buyouts have become a larger part of the buyout investing landscape.How AI is impacting software investing and how AI is impacting services businesses.Why the firm has expanded into credit.The thought process behind launching a wealth solutions business, Permira Wealth, and how it reflects the culture of the firm.Thanks Dipan for coming on the show to share the evolution of Permira and your expertise and wisdom in private markets.A word from AGM podcast sponsor, Ultimus Fund SolutionsThis episode of Alt Goes Mainstream is brought to you by Ultimus Fund Solutions, a leading full-service fund administrator for asset managers in private and public markets. As private markets continue to move into the mainstream, the industry requires infrastructure solutions that help funds and investors keep pace. In an increasingly sophisticated financial marketplace, investment managers must navigate a growing array of challenges: elaborate fund structures, specialized strategies, evolving compliance requirements, a growing need for sophisticated reporting, and intensifying demands for transparency.To assist with these challenging opportunities, more and more fund sponsors and asset managers are turning to Ultimus, a leading service provider that blends high tech and high touch in unique and customized fund administration and middle office solutions for a diverse and growing universe of over 450 clients and 1,800 funds, representing $500 billion assets under administration, all handled by a team of over 1,000 professionals. Ultimus offers a wide range of capabilities across registered funds, private funds and public plans, as well as outsourced middle office services. Delivering operational excellence, Ultimus helps firms manage the ever-changing regulatory environment while meeting the needs of their institutional and retail investors. Ultimus provides comprehensive operational support and fund governance services to help managers successfully launch retail alternative products.Visit www.ultimusfundsolutions.com to learn more about Ultimus' technology enhanced services and solutions or contact Ultimus Executive Vice President of Business Development Gary Harris on email at gharris@ultimusfundsolutions.com.We thank Ultimus for their support of alts going mainstream.Show Notes00:00 Introduction to our Sponsor, Ultimus01:55 Welcome Back to the Alt Goes Mainstream Podcast02:03 Introduction to Permira and our guest, Dipan Patel03:47 Discussion on Distributions and Market Conditions04:19 Selling A-Grade Businesses in Current Market05:03 Flight to Quality in Times of Stress06:07 Reflecting on Career and Lessons Learned06:29 Early Career Experiences at Arthur Andersen and Lehman Brothers07:29 Impact of Early Career on Leadership Style09:04 Challenges in Today's Investment Environment10:15 Underwriting in Unpredictable Times10:45 Locating Good Companies for Investment14:31 Importance of Market Leadership14:59 Partnering with Founders and Executive Teams16:22 Permira's Co-Leadership Model19:49 Investment Decision Process at Permira21:02 Underwriting Character in Executives22:54 Permira's Organizational Character and Culture23:29 Understanding Organizational Culture23:54 Thriving in Chaos: The Concept of Anti-Fragility24:51 Capital Flows in Private Markets25:26 Developing Investment Theses25:54 Strategic Exit Channels26:24 Supply Creates Its Own Demand27:24 The Necessity of Access to Private Markets28:10 Managing Stress Moments in Private Markets28:50 Navigating Industry Evolutions29:20 Focusing on Core Strengths30:09 Balancing Growth and Differentiation31:21 Investing in Growth and Buyout Businesses32:26 Synergies Between Growth and Mature Businesses33:38 Risk Spectrum in Investments34:27 Understanding Runway and Market Position35:42 Disruption vs. Destruction in AI36:49 Investing in Platform Shifts37:58 Control and Duration in Private Equity39:08 The Role of AI in Incumbent Success40:25 Cultural Adaptability to AI42:21 Specialism vs. Generalism in Investing43:56 Professional Services and AI45:27 Future Investment Ideas46:34 Mission Critical Investing47:28 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsEditing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant.
This week's interview is with Tim Hanley, a Milwaukee native & Titan 100 HOF whose career reads like a Hollywood script—until it didn't. From rising to partner at Arthur Andersen to navigating the collapse of the firm during the Enron scandal, Tim faced a leadership crucible that tested everything he believed about trust, transparency, and tenacity. But that wasn't the end. Years later, after retiring from Deloitte, Tim stepped into another storm—this time as interim dean at Marquette University just as COVID shut down the world. What he thought would be a one-year commitment turned into a 4½-year mission to guide a business school through unprecedented uncertainty.
There’s a reason you don’t hear people bragging about shopping for a new bank. Most of us choose one when we’re young and stick with it—even if we’re frustrated, even if it means worse service or fewer benefits. We treat it like a utility, not a relationship. That’s good news if you’re running a big bank. Not so good if you’re trying to build a bank here at home. Joe Zanco is doing exactly that. He’s the President and CEO of Catalyst Bank, a community bank based in Opelousas with branches around Acadiana. He’s a former CPA and internal auditor who cut his teeth working for the biggest names in banking and public accounting—Arthur Andersen, Iberia Bank, Home Bank. But the banking path wasn’t exactly his plan. Joe grew up in St. Bernard Parish, the son of a butcher with a drinking problem. He got into banking thanks to a mop, a grocery store manager, and a knack for numbers. He’s been laid off by bankrupt state agencies and global scandals—but every detour brought him closer to his real calling: helping people grow their businesses. On the opposite end of the spectrum is the world of civil litigation. Louisiana has lots of personal injuries to choose from. And that crowded competitive landscape comes with its own obstacles. Geremy Garcia is a managing partner of Landgrave Garcia Injury Attorneys. His path to entrepreneurship winds through geology, pool supplies, and a fraternity house visit with Exxon’s legal team. Geremy was born and raised in Corpus Christi and came to Lafayette in 2022. He studied geosciences at Texas Tech, then pivoted to law when the oil and gas industry hit the skids. After law school at Southern University, he found his niche in personal injury—especially the kinds of cases that require digging into long backstories and legal nuance, like dog bites or offshore injuries. In 2023, he and Logan Landgrave opened Landgrave Garcia. They’ve had to get scrappy: bootstrapping the firm, managing cash flow while fronting litigation costs, and learning to run a business from scratch. Turns out, there are two kinds of people who enjoy long odds and long paperwork trails: personal injury attorneys and community bankers. They may work in very different industries, but both Joe Zanco and Geremy Garcia are betting on something similar: that people in Acadiana value relationships, and that service still counts for something. Out to Lunch Acadiana was recorded live over lunch at Tsunami Sushi in downtown Lafayette. You can find photos from this show by Astor Morgan at itsacadiana.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A-lign founder and CEO Scott Price joins Tom Wallace and Saxon Baum to unpack the “all gas, no brakes” journey behind building a category leader in cybersecurity compliance. Scott traces his roots from Arthur Andersen and the Enron fallout to bootstrapping through 2009, landing the first clients, and evolving from SOC 2 mainstay to a broader, tech-enabled platform. He shares candid lessons from a re-traded 2017 deal, why outside capital served as market validation, and how partnering with FTV and later HG set the stage for scale enterprise expansion, European growth, and smart M&A. We dig into frameworks over tools for AI risk, the rise of CMMC and federal standards, and how Tampa's defense ecosystem fuels elite cybersecurity talent. Plus, leadership chemistry with a CFO, why second acts aren't automatically easier, and a lightning round on Bitcoin, AI's job impact, and the China tech challenge. A masterclass in grit, governance, and growth forward. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Are you a family business owner who thinks you can just snap your fingers and sell your business for top dollar when you're ready to retire?In this eye-opening episode, Gary Heldt sits down with Lowell Mora, President of Impact CFO, who brings 35 years of financial leadership experience to small and medium-sized businesses. Lowell shares his journey from Arthur Andersen to helping family-owned businesses prepare for successful exits. Lowell reveals the shocking statistic that nearly half of all family-owned businesses end up in bankruptcy within two years of the founder's death due to lack of planning. Lowell discusses the critical differences between traditional accounting/tax services and strategic CFO work, emphasizing the importance of 3-5 year exit planning, building strong management teams, and viewing your business as an asset rather than just an income stream.Key Takeaways ➤ Nearly half of all family-owned businesses go bankrupt within two years of the founder's death due to lack of succession planning. ➤ Most family businesses suffer from dangerous customer concentration (often 70% with one client) and lack strong autonomous management teams - both major red flags for potential buyers. ➤ You need 3-5 years of strategic preparation before selling your business, including professionalizing accounting records, conducting margin analysis, and building operational systems. ➤ There's a crucial difference between your tax-preparing CPA and a fractional CFO - one looks backward for tax compliance, the other looks forward for business growth and exit strategy. ➤ Business owners must shift their mindset from viewing their company as an income stream to seeing it as an asset that needs to be optimized for maximum value.Notable Quotes from Lowell Mora"I've never met a business owner who thought their business was worth less than what it was. Typically, they are amazed that there's no real intrinsic value from an EBITDA perspective at a point in time - there's work that needs to be done.""What happens if you get hit by a bus? Your spouse will be okay because you have life insurance, but you have nobody to run this business. All these employees you treat as family will be grieving you AND dealing with a business crisis."How to Reach Lowell MoraEmail: Lowell@impact-cfo.netPhone: 847-212-4081Website: https://www.impactcfo.net/Visit his website for free consultation scheduling, 13-week cash flow samples, and additional resources for business owners planning their exit strategy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Are you a family business owner who thinks you can just snap your fingers and sell your business for top dollar when you're ready to retire?In this eye-opening episode, Gary Heldt sits down with Lowell Mora, President of Impact CFO, who brings 35 years of financial leadership experience to small and medium-sized businesses. Lowell shares his journey from Arthur Andersen to helping family-owned businesses prepare for successful exits. Lowell reveals the shocking statistic that nearly half of all family-owned businesses end up in bankruptcy within two years of the founder's death due to lack of planning. Lowell discusses the critical differences between traditional accounting/tax services and strategic CFO work, emphasizing the importance of 3-5 year exit planning, building strong management teams, and viewing your business as an asset rather than just an income stream.Key Takeaways ➤ Nearly half of all family-owned businesses go bankrupt within two years of the founder's death due to lack of succession planning. ➤ Most family businesses suffer from dangerous customer concentration (often 70% with one client) and lack strong autonomous management teams - both major red flags for potential buyers. ➤ You need 3-5 years of strategic preparation before selling your business, including professionalizing accounting records, conducting margin analysis, and building operational systems. ➤ There's a crucial difference between your tax-preparing CPA and a fractional CFO - one looks backward for tax compliance, the other looks forward for business growth and exit strategy. ➤ Business owners must shift their mindset from viewing their company as an income stream to seeing it as an asset that needs to be optimized for maximum value.Notable Quotes from Lowell Mora"I've never met a business owner who thought their business was worth less than what it was. Typically, they are amazed that there's no real intrinsic value from an EBITDA perspective at a point in time - there's work that needs to be done.""What happens if you get hit by a bus? Your spouse will be okay because you have life insurance, but you have nobody to run this business. All these employees you treat as family will be grieving you AND dealing with a business crisis."How to Reach Lowell MoraEmail: Lowell@impact-cfo.netPhone: 847-212-4081Website: https://www.impactcfo.net/Visit his website for free consultation scheduling, 13-week cash flow samples, and additional resources for business owners planning their exit strategy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Target Market Insights: Multifamily Real Estate Marketing Tips
Gian Pazzia is a seasoned cost segregation expert and structural engineer who has spent over 25 years helping real estate investors unlock powerful tax strategies. As a former engineer at Arthur Andersen and current leader at costsegregation.com and KBKG, Gian has worked with everyone from small landlords to major casinos and Fortune 500 companies to help them accelerate depreciation and reduce their tax burdens.
In this episode of 'Inspired to Lead,' host Talia Meshiach sits down with Shifra Kolsky, the Chief Accounting Officer at Discover Financial Services. Shifra shares her inspirational journey from overcoming the loss of her father during her teenage years, to working through high school and college, and eventually climbing the corporate ladder. With a special focus on balancing a high-powered career with family responsibilities, Shifra opens up about the importance of self-belief, continuous learning, and effective communication. She discusses her motivations, the challenges she faced regarding Shabbos and Yom Tov in a corporate environment, and the significance of a supportive workplace culture. Listeners will gain insights on the value of asking for growth opportunities, the power of mentorship, and the joy of contributing to both family and community. 00:00 Introduction to Inspired to Lead 01:24 Interview with Shifra Kolsky Begins 02:35 Shifra's Role at Discover Financial Services 06:18 Balancing Family and Career 07:23 Shifra's Early Life and Career Path 23:43 Challenges and Mentorship in Shifra's Career 30:20 Balancing Family and Career Responsibilities 31:15 Navigating Maternity Leave in Corporate America 33:09 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Climbing the Corporate Ladder 34:47 The Importance of Asking for Opportunities 38:04 Creating a Supportive Work Environment 41:04 Balancing Religious Observance with Corporate Demands 46:28 Leadership and Personal Growth 52:14 Final Reflections and Advice About Shifra Kolsky: Kolsky has been with Discover over 15 years and was promoted to Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer in 2020. She was instrumental in driving several key initiatives, including significant accounting changes, major technology implementations and the adoption of robotic process automation in the finance function. She is the executive sponsor of Discover's Jewish Affinity Group. Prior to working for Discover, Kolsky was in public accounting in the audit practice at Deloitte and Arthur Andersen. In addition to her role at Discover, Kolsky is also active in her community, volunteering with No Shame On U, an organization dedicated to ending the stigma associated with mental health conditions; the Chicago chapter of The JWE; and the Kehillah Fund, which supports Jewish educational institutions in the Chicago area. Kolsky's husband is a rabbi who teaches in Jewish day schools and high schools. They have four children and two fabulous kids-in-law. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shifrakolsky Powered By Roth & Co The JWE For guest suggestions, please email Talia: podcast@thejwe.org
"Share your likes before your concerns." "Life is not a dress rehearsal." Episode summary | In this engaging conversation, Nomi Bergman shares her journey from a challenging childhood in athletics to becoming a successful leader in the technology sector. She emphasizes the importance of kindness, generosity, and positive intent in leadership, drawing from her experiences at Bright House Networks. Nomi discusses the significance of creating a supportive work culture, the value of timely feedback, and the power of personal growth through action. She also reflects on her family background, the lessons learned from mistakes, and the impact of mentorship. Throughout the conversation, Nomi inspires listeners to embrace their authentic selves and to lead with kindness. R.O.G. Takeaway Tips | Generosity in leadership fosters a positive work culture and builds trust. Sharing likes before concerns enhances team collaboration and morale. Kindness is a powerful leadership trait that can lead to greater success. Assuming positive intent can help navigate workplace challenges. Learning from mistakes and taking corrective action is crucial for personal growth. Creating a culture where employees can say 'yes' leads to better customer service. Timely feedback is essential for effective communication and improvement. Everyone has a unique story to share that can inspire others. Life is not a dress rehearsal; take action and live authentically. Chapters | 00:00 Introduction to Nomi Bergman 02:04 Nomi's Early Life and Background 04:25 Overcoming Challenges in Athletics 06:56 The Importance of Generosity in Leadership 12:11 Creating a Positive Work Culture 14:17 The Hello Friend Campaign at Bright House 16:44 Assuming Positive Intent in Leadership 17:41 Learning from Mistakes and Taking Corrective Action 20:56 The Benefits of Kindness and Collaboration 22:19 The Shift from Right Answers to Teamwork 23:07 Reinventing Leadership Style through Kindness 25:07 The Strength of Kindness in Leadership 26:52 Delivering Feedback with Kindness and Clarity 29:31 The Power of Humility in Leadership 32:34 Finding Your Voice and Sharing Your Story 34:36 The Importance of Action and Kindness 41:53 Life Lessons: No Dress Rehearsal 42:20 The Lasting Impact of Kindness Guest Bio | Nomi Bergman is the President of Advance/Newhouse Investment Partnership, where she brings visionary leadership to a portfolio of innovative companies in the technology and media sectors. She previously served as President of Bright House Networks, where she led over 8,500 employees and helped grow the company into the sixth-largest cable operator in the U.S. before its merger with Charter and Time Warner Cable. With more than 25 years of experience, Nomi is a seasoned operator, technologist, investor, and advisor known for developing strategies that elevate product delivery and customer experience. She began her career in Management Information Consulting at Arthur Andersen, building a foundation in analytical thinking and systems optimization. Nomi has been recognized with the CableFAX Lifetime Achievement Award and was inducted into The Cable Center's Hall of Fame in 2018. She is deeply committed to inclusive leadership and mentorship, serving on various boards and supporting initiatives that advance equity and opportunity. A passionate advocate for human-centered innovation, Nomi brings both heart and strategy to every endeavor. She is also a proud wife and mother of three daughters, balancing executive leadership with family values at the core of her life and work. Bridge Between Resources: 5 Degree Change Course Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index Free Generosity Quiz Credits: Nomi Bergman, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc. Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 231, Special Guest, Jason Henkel.
(0:00) Intro(1:13) About the podcast sponsor: The American College of Governance Counsel(2:00) Start of interview(2:45) Amy's origin story(3:25) Her start in corporate governance(5:02) About the implosion of Arthur Andersen (she worked there from 1993 to 2002) (7:00) Her time at BDO USA for the past 21 years and founding the BDO Center for Corporate Governance(11:50) AI governance and board approaches to new technologies.(13:53) Technology savviness or literacy of directors. (15:32) Where does technology and AI fit in the board (full board v. committees) (17:53) Climate disclosures and evolution of ESG "ESG is considered a four-letter word at this point"(21:26) Evolving geopolitical landscape and challenges to globalization.(24:25) CEO Succession Challenges(26:40) CEO Compensation Insights and Private vs. Public Company Governance (including VC and PE)(33:30) Thoughts on new SEC guidance limiting shareholder proposals on ESG issues and expanding disclosure requirements for large asset managers ("passive investors") engaging with companies on ESG issues (shifting from 13G to 13D). The rise of private markets.(38:33) Future Governance Challenges "[F]or the next 12 months; 1) strengthening of AI and technology usage and oversight, 2) Continuing to evolve enterprise risk management, and 3) Ensuring effective cybersecurity and data protection policies." Other than that: talent management, board evaluations.(42:08) Evolving Board Structures(44:07) Books that have greatly influenced her life:The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks (1996)(45:31) Her mentors.(47:20) Quotes that she thinks of often or lives her life by: "Water finds its level." and "You'll never achieve what you don't make known that you want."(48:19) An unusual habit or an absurd thing that she loves. (48:54) The living person she most admires.(49:50) BDO USA governance podcastAmy Rojik is managing partner of corporate governance at BDO USA, and director and founder of the BDO Center for Corporate Governance. You can follow Evan on social media at:X: @evanepsteinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/epsteinevan/ Substack: https://evanepstein.substack.com/__To support this podcast you can join as a subscriber of the Boardroom Governance Newsletter at https://evanepstein.substack.com/__Music/Soundtrack (found via Free Music Archive): Seeing The Future by Dexter Britain is licensed under a Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 United States License
Today, it is my pleasure to speak with Bruce Benesh, Managing Principal at Benesh Consulting Group. Bruce has more than 40 years of experience in executive compensation, tax planning relating to compensation arrangements, and international human resource consulting. He formerly served as the national partner- in-charge of the Human Capital Services Practice at Grant Thornton, and prior to that was the partner-in-charge of Arthur Andersen's Americas Human Capital Services Practice. Bruce, along with his firm Benesh Consulting Group, is a distinguished and generous advisor member of FOX, and we are fortunate to have his expertise available to our membership community. Bruce begins with an overview of the family office executive compensation landscape today. He describes the current state of affairs in the space, the established practices, and the latest trends pertaining to compensating key staff at family offices. Bruce then talks about some of the challenges family offices are facing when looking to create total compensation structures for their key employees and executives, highlighting the issues they struggle with the most. Bruce has worked with dozens, if not hundreds, of family offices over the years, helping them design attractive and effective compensation packages for key hires. He summarizes some of the best practices he has observed most frequently and would recommend to our listeners. Beyond hiring a compensation expert with experience in the family office space, such as himself, Bruce provides a summary of the other resources and practical tools family office owners and leaders should be aware of that can help them understand, plan, and design best-in-class compensation structures. Do not miss this highly relevant and instructional conversation with one of the foremost thought leaders and practitioners in the family office compensation space.
Today, we'll acquire something more from Chris Kolquist's over 20 years of experience in the freight industry! Chris explains the importance of operational expertise in evaluating companies, building partnerships over mere capital investment, the necessity for business owners to have clarity on their capital needs, and the value of thorough vetting of potential partners and creative partnership approaches in an overcrowded market! About Chris Kolquist Throughout his career, senior executive and strategic leader Chris Kolquist has been a catalyst in driving commercial growth, positive financial results, and maximum shareholder value in challenging and hyper-competitive markets. He has built a noteworthy reputation for understanding investments, delivering ROI objectives, managing massive change, and building highly effective cultures. In 2021, Chris launched Koliway LLC, an investment and advisory firm specializing in investments, M&A transactions, board service, and advisory executive logistics work. Chris began his career with Arthur Andersen, where he served as Senior Auditor from 1998 to 2001, conducting audits, M&A transaction support, and financial due diligence for buy-side and sell-side clients. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1998 and obtained his CPA license in 2001 (now inactive). Connect with Chris Website: https://koliway.com/ Email: ckolquist@koliway.com
Are you clocking what time it is? If you've been paying any kind of attention you know that jobs and organizations are no longer loyal to the employee--if they ever were. With mass layoffs and sudden unexplained firings, the mood is definitely “you are on your own!” So what can you do about this? Definitely, not curl up in a ball and cry. Now is the time to invest in yourself so you are ready for any and all market shifts and changes. But how can you do this? My guest Rochelle Moulton shares her journey of doing just this over decades of putting the work of Gay Hendricks into practice by shifting from operating in her Zone of Excellence into her Zone of Genius. This has led to exponential growth and transformation in her life and business. Now I bet you're wondering what that is and probably wanna know what that might be for you. We've got you! We get into the nitty gritty so you can also get a roadmap to what steps you can take because Rochelle is committed to helping professionals like you turn your expertise into wealth. And it starts with knowing what you do that nobody else can do the way you do. In this episode you'll learn: The difference between your Zone of Excellence and your Zone of Genius and how the former may be holding you back Why investing in your Genius Zone is the key to exponential growth and transformation Practical steps you can take today to identify your Zone of Genius and discover what's calling you After this, I know you'll be ready to step into your authority by bringing your best to your table by leaning into Zone of Genius. To learn even more about what Rochelle shares about working in your “Zone of Genius” check out the work of Gay Hendricks, author of The Big Leap: A Guide to Transcending Personal Limits, Overcoming Fears, and Unleashing Your Authentic Greatness for a Better Life Reference: Rochelle Moulton's book: The Authority Code: How to Position, Monetize, and Sell Your Expertise Rochelle Moulton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rochellemoulton/ Rochelle Moulton Website: https://rochellemoulton.com/ Rochelle Moulton Podcast: The Soloist Life Reframe to Create Episode 64 - The Why and How of Building a Powerful Personal Brand | Diane Diaz About my guest: Rochelle Moulton is on a mission to teach Soloist Consultants how to turn their expertise into “wealth”, AKA revenue, free time, flexibility, and impact. The author of The Authority Code: How to Position, Monetize and Sell Your Expertise, she also hosts The Soloist Life podcast. She became a confirmed Soloist after leading introverted brainiacs at two powerhouse consulting firms, turning around the failing consulting arm of a Fortune 500 company and building three consulting firms from scratch—including the one she sold to Arthur Andersen for seven figures. She, her hubby, and their adorable dog Jackson have transplanted themselves to Palm Springs where they intend to live happily ever after. About: The Reframe to Create podcast is hosted by Joy Spencer, an Executive Leadership and Storytelling Coach, Speaker, and Organizational Development Consultant working with professionals and leaders at all levels within organizations. Joy leverages over 17 years of experience she gained while working to champion change in social justice movements, including those related to global access to essential medicines and consumer advocacy for online privacy. This work required a dogged commitment to not merely challenging the status quo, but to reimagining and working towards creating an ideal future. It is this commitment to creating that has shaped Joy's coaching philosophy and approach today. Using her signature C.R.E.A.T.E. framework, Joy guides her clients through a process to become incomparable in work so they can get paid to be themselves. Follow Joy on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-spencer