Lessons in Leadership: Erie Street's Terry Graunke

Terry Graunke, chairman and CEO of Erie Street, an independent advisory firm based in Chicago, spoke with Middle Market Growth last week about how he's leading his firm through the economic disruption caused by the coronavirus outbreak. Graunke launched his first business in college. He has gone on to found 11 startups and has been involved with 43 separate operating businesses over the course of his career as an operator and investor. He describes what he's learned leading companies through past downturns and how he's applying those lessons today—from offering fitness perks to employees to communicating difficult news honestly and transparently. Erie Street recently rebranded from Erie Street Capital and Graunke explains the value creation philosophy behind that change, and how the firm supports businesses through its advisory and consulting services and capital investment. *** The Middle Market Growth Conversations podcast is brought to you by the Association for Corporate Growth. To learn more about the organization and how to become a member, visit www.acg.org.