What is a company really worth when the pressure is on?

In this episode of 'Conversations with' we go beyond theory and into the reality of pricing deals. Midge van Dijk is joined by valuation specialists Rens Gamers from Hoek en Blok, and Charlie Metzig and Randy Feld from Boyum Barenscheer, we unpack how methods like DCF hold up in live M&A situations, where uncertainty, negotiation, and market dynamics collide.

If you have ever wondered whether valuation is about fundamentals, or just finding a number both sides can agree on, this episode is for you.

In this episode, Mary Margaret Prange, and Coco Wang from Calibre CPA share their insights and experiences of mentorship beyond formal structures. While corporate programs create valuable frameworks, some of the most meaningful mentorship happens informally—through proximity, shared experience, and what we call professional osmosis.

This kind of organic mentorship can be especially powerful. It reduces isolation, encourages collaboration, and builds confidence in ways formal systems alone often cannot.

In recognition of International Women’s Day, this conversation highlights that mentorship isn’t always assigned—sometimes it simply evolves. And when it does, its impact can shape not only individual careers, but entire workplace cultures.

Join Rayane Mohand and Midge van Dijk as they discuss how Canovia approach M&A

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Professional services are often described as a “people business”. In this episode of Conversations with, Georgie Baker is joined by Laurence Fishman, Partner at Nyman Libson Paul to explore the intersection of human connection and brand - and why neither can succeed without the other.

Together, they discuss how authentic relationships play a vital role in long-term success and how to foster trust and build a sense of belonging across hybrid and global teams. 

 While AI and technology continue to reshape our industry, Laurence and Georgie reflect on what they cannot replace: empathy, judgement, trust, and meaningful human connection.

 If there’s one piece of advice for emerging leaders, it’s this: Invest in relationships before you need them – and build a brand that reflects who you truly are, not just what you sell.

 This episode is a powerful reminder that impact, influence, and sustainable growth are built on connection. 

In this episode of Conversations With, Ryan speaks with valued Morison Global member, Charlie Metzig, Managing Partner at Boyum Barenscheer, about the future of mid-sized accounting firms. Charlie shares his career journey, how his firm is embracing AI and new technology, and why innovation is now essential rather than optional. The conversation also explores value-based pricing, talent attraction, firm culture, and the advantages of remaining independent in a rapidly changing professional services landscape.

Poland remains Central and Eastern Europe’s standout M&A market. Over the last decade its economy has grown more than twice as fast as the EU average, even heavily outperforming the EU during crises such as the 2020 pandemic. 

Join Jan Ciuhak, Senior Consultant at Grupa Strategia in conversation with Midge van Dijk, Corporate Finance Advisor at Hoek en Blok as they explore why investors can invest in Poland with confidence and how Grupa Strategia, with over 25 years of experience, leads international buyers and sellers to success in the Polish market. 

To discuss exciting opportunities in Poland, please contact Jan Ciuhak, [email protected], +48 608 614 323, www.grupastrategia.com

Download the Grupa Strategia – Poland M&A Report 2025 here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/grupa-strategia_grupa-strategia-poland-ma-report-2025-activity-7366054735084163072-_zat/”

 AI is transforming the way we work, but are we truly ready? In this episode, Ryan Piper is in conversation with Luca Rai, from Rai e Partners in Italy, and they explore what readiness really means, how professionals can build confidence with AI, and why trust and judgment still matter more than ever. From early experiments to ethical collaboration across firms, they unpack the opportunities and challenges shaping our AI future. 

In this episode, Georgie Baker chats with Maria Villamar, industrial psychologist and director of HR at ACOFI an HR on her passion for building workplaces where people truly thrive. From the rise of holistic wellbeing to the concept of “emotional salary” Maria shares her insights into what really drives fulfilment at work, beyond traditional pay and perks.

Over the past decade, the world of professional services has transformed dramatically, especially when it comes to attracting, developing, and retaining talent.  In this episode, Georgie Baker is in conversation with Hetal Mistry and Emma Woolard from Nyman Libson Paul to explore how their firms is rethinking what it means to build thriving teams in a changing landscape.

From flexible working and mental health support, to innovative leadership pathways and a culture built on trust, they discuss how the most successful firms are creating environments where people feel valued, motivated, and empowered to grow.

They discuss:

• The shift from traditional recruitment to a more human-centered, flexible approach
• How structured career progression and mentorship drive long-term loyalty
• The creative initiatives that give employees a real voice — from audit breakfasts to graduate days
• And what the future holds for talent management, from AI training to greater focus on purpose and wellbeing

Whether you are an HR leader, a partner in a professional services firm, or simply curious about what keeps top talent engaged, this conversation offers fresh insight into building workplaces where people truly want to stay.

What’s something really worth — and who gets to decide?

In this episode, we unpack the complex world of valuation from three expert perspectives. Midge van Dijk, Hoek en Blok, is joined by Izabela Suchomska from Nyman Libson Paul, Luca Rai from Rai e Partners and Emma Flin from Sovereign Capital. 

Together, they explore what valuation truly means — how it guides decision-making, where theory meets judgment, and why it’s both an art and a science.

From navigating biases and unrealistic assumptions to aligning valuation with business models, tax, and accounting, this episode sheds light on how value is determined, defended, and sometimes disputed.