Private Equity Value Creation Podcast Ep. 97: Rita Ferrandino, Arc Capital Development | The Downturn Playbook: How to Thrive When Growth Stalls and Disruption Accelerates
Oct 30, 2025
Rita Ferrandino, Co-founder of Arc Capital Development, specializes in propelling growth for education companies and advising on AI-driven transformations. In this conversation, she reveals a playbook for navigating economic downturns, emphasizing the importance of risk assessment and financial health. Rita warns against superficial AI applications and advises companies to solidify existing customer relationships and build top-tier teams before integrating new technologies. She highlights unique challenges posed by AI in today's market and the necessity for strategic pre-planning.
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AI Changes Market Consumption Patterns
- AI is changing how customers consume products and services, so old delivery models won't suffice.
- Rita warns that simply "AI-ifying" legacy products won't stop market erosion or declining revenue.
Corporate Training Example Shows Market Shift
- Rita described a corporate training provider whose new product failed to stop revenue declines.
- She contrasted shifting content consumption patterns to explain why legacy delivery broke down.
Begin With A Risk-First Strategic Review
- Start with a risk analysis and quantify the risk of doing nothing, safe moves, and proactive actions.
- Use that risk view to shape a strategic plan rather than rushing to bolt on AI.
