M&A Launchpad

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome special guest Kevin McArdle, co-founder and CEO of Big Band Software. Kevin Shares his incredible journey from CP of Sales at Cerner to acquiring and operating over 50 SaaS companies. After a stint teaching high school math, Kevin landed his first tech job at a booming global software company.

His journey to VP was a masterclass in scaling a successful tech business and led him to start and run multiple companies of his own. After realizing that wealth was created as a business owner, he started Big Band, where they apply Fortune 100 principals to small companies on their next leg of growth. Kevin discusses the strategies that he employs to help the current team become more efficient in their day-to-day work.

If you are an aspiring entrepreneur or someone interested in the SaaS industry, this episode is packed with invaluable insights on buying and managing a software business.

In this podcast episode, we discuss:

• What is SaaS?

You can connect with Kevin McArdle by X (Twitter) or by website: Big Band Software / @kevin_mcardle

Additional Resources:

• Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube

In this episode, we welcomed Nick Patrick, the Managing Partner at Coda Capital, to discuss his journey from corporate America to purchasing his first business, a catering and wedding venture. The conversation delved into the nuances of transitioning from buyer to seller, exploring the ecosystem, pros, and cons of the catering industry.

This episode highlights the unconventional path Patrick took in acquiring the business, which wasn't the conventional ARR model but relied on strategic thinking and operational expertise. The discussion also touched on the significance of structuring deals with sellers, identifying win-win scenarios, and the mindset of not being wedded to a business indefinitely, as Patrick eventually sold the venture to pursue other opportunities.

Overall, the episode provided valuable insights into entrepreneurship, deal-making, and strategic exits.

• Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, we talk with Sarah Dusek, entrepreneur and author of Thinking Bigger. Sarah’s mission is to inspire women to generate wealth and enter male-dominated spaces, with her book serving as a guide for business growth.

Sarah transitioned from nonprofit work to founding Under Canvas, a successful glamping company. After moving the business to Yellowstone, it flourished. In 2018, an investment firm acquired Under Canvas. Facing capital challenges, Sarah became a venture capitalist to support women entrepreneurs.

Tune in to hear Sarah’s inspiring story and insights on entrepreneurship. Visit her website for more information.

In this podcast episode, we discuss:

• Creating the Glamping Industry

You can connect with Sarah Dusek by website: Sarah Dusek | Author, Speaker, Entrepreneur & More (sarahhdusek.com)

Additional Resources:

• Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa have their first in-person interview with Walker Deibel, author of "Buy Then Build" and Co-Founder of Acquisition Lab. Walker shares the inspiration behind his book, which aims to teach and educate individuals on how to purchase their first business. He reflects on his experiences with his first and second business acquisitions, emphasizing the importance of overcoming challenges and understanding that there is no perfect deal. 

Walker delves into the origins of Acquisition Lab, a selective program he conceived with the goal of nurturing entrepreneurs. Acquisition Lab builds a community of active participants in the M&A world.  Highlighting the importance of the individual in the success of a business, Walker argues that the risk in M&A and entrepreneurship lies more with the person than the business itself. We explore industries that, while not traditionally seen as attractive in the ETA (Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition) space, may offer great opportunities. This is a great episode and gives insight into the life of one of the most influential individuals in ETA.   

In this podcast episode, we discuss:  

• Buy Then Build 

You can connect with Walker by LinkedIn: Walker Deibel - Acquisition Lab | LinkedIn 

You can learn more about “Buy Then Build” and Acquisition Lab Here: 

• About - BUY THEN BUILD 

Additional Resources: 

• Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube 

• Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - [email protected] 

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome special guest Bakari Akil, founder of Graves Hall Capital. Bakari shares his inspiring journey from initially knowing nothing about M&A to successfully acquiring two $30 million businesses and teaching Cornell MBA candidates about entrepreneurship through acquisition.

His story highlights the power of determination and self-education in overcoming challenges and achieving success in the world of business acquisitions. Throughout the discussion, Bakari emphasizes the importance of proactive strategies for self-education, networking, and developing essential business skills such as negotiations and financing. His insights underscore the significance of practical action and resilience in navigating the complexities of M&A.

The episode also explores the often-overlooked role of personal finance in wealth building and M&A, offering valuable advice and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and business professionals. In this podcast episode, we discuss: Resilience The Power of Self Education Taking Action to Overcome Analysis Paralysis Building Wealth Through M&A and ETA.

You can connect with Bakari Akil by his Website: About — Graves Hall (squarespace.com)

Additional Resources: Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - [email protected] Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit EquityLaunchpad.com

Join hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa on the M&A Launchpad Podcast for a riveting discussion with Malcolm Peace, founder of Tsetserra Growth Partners. Malcolm shares essential insights into scaling businesses and integrating sales and marketing strategies.  

Reflecting on his acquisition journey, he emphasizes understanding sellers' mindsets and navigating unexpected challenges during transitions. Delving into operational intricacies, Malcolm highlights the importance of hands-on involvement and recruiting operating partners to drive day-to-day operations.  

Tune in to explore the art of business acquisition, operational challenges, and team building essentials with Malcolm as he unveils his journey on the path to growth under Tsetserra Growth Partners. https://tsetserra.com/

In this podcast episode, we discuss:  

• Malcolm’s Thesis to Acquire 

You can connect with Malcolm on LinkedIn: Malcolm Peace - Tsetserra Growth Partners | LinkedIn 

or at Tsetserra Growth Partners.

Additional Resources: 

• Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube 

In this episode, Randy Woods shares the journey of founding and selling his tech company, Non-Linear, spanning two decades of growth aligned with the internet's evolution. Randy identified top talent and strategically sold the company when the timing was optimal, ensuring a favorable outcome for employees. He provides practical advice for prospective sellers, stressing the importance of professionalizing accounting, addressing legal obligations, and aligning stakeholders to navigate the complexities of business exits. 

Transitioning into an M&A advisory role at Valtech post-acquisition, Randy discusses their tech-focused acquisition strategy. This episode offers invaluable insights for entrepreneurs navigating business acquisitions and exits, encapsulating Randy's wealth of experience and expertise in the tech industry. 

In this podcast episode, we discuss:  

• Building a Successful Tech Company 

You can connect with Randy Woods by LinkedIn: Randy Woods - Valtech | LinkedIn 

Additional Resources: 

• Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube 

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa delve into Kevin Bibelhausen's journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, focusing on his transition, business acquisition, and operational strategies. Kevin shares his shift motivated by autonomy and the allure of entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of assembling the right team and leveraging expertise in finance and operations for his textile business acquisition. He emphasizes teamwork and reflects on raising capital, securing $800,000 in five weeks, primarily through social media platforms. 

Reflecting on entrepreneurship's essence, Kevin underscores trust and relationships in business transactions and shares insights into managing working capital and fostering employee relations post-acquisition. Looking forward, Kevin remains committed to operational excellence and mentorship, balancing hands-on involvement with strategic investments.  

In this podcast episode, we discuss:  

• Team Collaboration and Support 

You can connect with Kevin Bibelhausen by email: [email protected] 

Additional Resources: 

• Join The M&A Launchpad Conference on May 11th, 2024, in Houston. Use coupon code M&APODCAST for a $200 discount - https://malaunchpad.com/  

In this insightful episode, hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa interview Jay B Sauceda to explore the journey of running a logistics business and achieving a successful exit. Jay B's expertise shines as he shares invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the industry. The conversation begins with Jay B recounting his journey, from the initial exposure to the logistics space driven by the need for efficient shipping solutions for his retail brand to recognizing the untapped potential in offering third-party logistics services. 

Moreover, the discussion delves into the impact of external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic on the logistics industry, with Jay B candidly sharing the trials faced by his company and how resilient leadership helped them emerge stronger. Jay B also provides invaluable insights into the decision-making process leading up to the sale of his company to cart.com, discussing negotiation strategies and the complexities of due diligence. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of running a logistics business and achieving a successful exit, gaining practical insights and strategies for navigating the competitive landscape of the industry. 

In this podcast episode, we cover: 

• The journey of running a logistics business and achieving a successful exit 

You can connect with Jay B Sauceda by email: Jay B Sauceda 

Additional Resources: 

• Join The M&A Launchpad Conference on May 11th, 2024, in Houston. Use coupon code M&APODCAST for a $200 discount - https://malaunchpad.com/  

In this episode, our guest Shawn Allard shares his recent experience acquiring Novel Ice Cream in Phoenix, AZ. Despite initial reservations about entering the food & beverage industry, Shawn's journey illustrates the value of seizing lucrative opportunities and approaching each business on its individual merits.

In this podcast episode, we discuss:

• Importance of Branding and Marketing for SMB

You can connect with Shawn Allard on Twitter: @shawnwallard

Additional Resources:

• Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube