LeverUp™️ : A podcast on Private Equity and Entrepreneurship

In this episode of Lever Up, we sit down with Scott Kelly, CEO of Black Dog Venture Partners and host of VC Fast Pitch. Scott takes us through his incredible 30-year journey, starting as a runner on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange to founding Black Dog Venture Partners, where he has helped startups raise over $5 billion and guided 30 successful exits. We discuss the value of assembling a strong team, how to prepare for raising capital, and why scaling a business at the right time can be the difference between success and failure.Scott shares his unique insights on entrepreneurship, from surviving the dot-com boom to scaling tech companies and even dabbling in the music industry. Whether you’re an early-stage entrepreneur, looking to scale your startup, or simply interested in the venture capital world, this episode offers a plenty of practical advice.Key PointsHow to build a resilient team that can scale with your business.The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when raising seed capital.Why scaling too fast can be just as dangerous as growing too slow.The evolving venture capital landscape and how to navigate it successfully.Get in Touch with Scott KellyWebsite: Black Dog Venture PartnersSocial Media: @BlackDogCEO on all platformsVC Fast Pitch: VC Fast Pitch

In this episode of LeverUp, we sit down with Michael Picardi, a mid-career investor relations professional with a fascinating background. From starting his career in fintech with Masterworks and transitioning to private wealth at Alliance Bernstein, Michael shares valuable insights into the world of finance and investor relations.Join us as Michael discusses his experiences working in a fast-paced fintech startup, the challenges of cold calling, and the importance of building strong client relationships. He also offers advice for those interested in breaking into the finance industry, particularly in investor relations, and shares tips on networking, career growth, and managing time in a high-pressure environment.Whether you’re a finance professional, an aspiring investor relations expert, or just interested in hearing about career journeys in the financial world, this episode is packed with actionable insights and advice.Key Topics:Investor relations career pathFintech startup challengesMasterworks art investment platformTransitioning to private wealth managementBuilding a book of businessNetworking and relationship managementTips for success in finance and investor relationsConnect with Michael:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfpicardi

In this episode, we sit down with Swaney Group Capital's Chief Operating Officer, Robert ‘Bo’ Plante III. Bo's career spans from Virginia Tech to the State Department in Moscow, followed by distinguished service in both the Marine Corps and the Army Special Forces. Bo shares his journey from military service to private equity, highlighting how his military leadership and strategic planning skills translate to the corporate world. He discusses the challenges and rewards of leading strategic initiatives and managing people in military and civilian settings. Join us as Bo offers insights on adaptability, building high-performing teams, and overcoming challenges in transformation management. This episode is packed with actionable advice for military professionals transitioning to corporate roles and business leaders seeking to enhance their strategic planning skills. Key Topics Covered:Transitioning from military to corporate leadershipStrategic planning in military vs. civilian settingsManaging people and preventing organizational resistance Follow Robert ‘Bo’ Plante III:LinkedIn: Robert 'Bo' Plante IIIDon’t miss our weekly episodes every Wednesday. Follow and subscribe to stay updated!

This episode is a re-run from when we sat spoke with Scott Larson, a financial expert with over 15 years of experience in investment banking, private equity, and hedge funds. Scott founded OutFin Group in 2023, which helps founders of $2-$20 million revenue businesses prepare for profitable exits. With a background in investment banking at JPMorgan Chase and private equity experience at GCP Capital Partners, Scott shares valuable insights from his impressive career.In this episode, Scott discusses his journey from New York City’s financial district to becoming an advisor for business owners. Learn about common pitfalls in the selling process and how to avoid them, the importance of financial infrastructure, and crucial steps to take 18-36 months before a sale. Scott also shares real-world examples of failed deals due to financial oversight and how strategic changes can lead to better outcomes.Whether you’re an entrepreneur considering a sale, a CFO optimizing business value, or simply interested in finance, this episode offers actionable advice.Key Topics Covered:Building a solid financial foundationMaximizing business value with financial infrastructureCommon mistakes during the sale processSuccessful negotiation strategiesBenefits of partnering with financial expertsFollow Scott Larson:Website: OutFin GroupTwitter: @IAmScottLarsonDon’t miss our weekly episodes every Wednesday. Follow and subscribe to stay updated!

Today we are joined by Ryan Harrington, a seasoned startup investor, advisor, and product manager specializing in financial technology. In this episode, Ryan shares his incredible journey from a private wealth analyst at JPMorgan to becoming a key player in the NYC tech scene. Learn about his extensive experience, including finding product/market fit, defining roadmap strategy, and aligning development teams to maximize output. Discover the impact of digital transformation on the financial industry, the real-life responsibilities of a product manager, and the future of FinTech.Ryan is an expert in financial technology, with years of experience in both early and late-stage tech startups. As an advisor and investor, he has helped numerous companies navigate their growth and development phases. Ryan offers insights into the challenges and triumphs of navigating tech startups and the evolving landscape of FinTech.What you’ll hear in this episode:● Ryan's transition from private wealth analyst at JPMorgan to tech product manager● The impact of digital transformation on the financial industry● The real-life day-to-day responsibilities of a product manager● Insights into effective product management strategies and planning● Lessons from Ryan's journey and his approach to early-stage investing Comment your thoughts on Ryan’s journey and insights into the future of FinTech. Follow Ryan HarringtonLinkedIn: Ryan Harrington

Today we are joined by Jim Tompkins, the chairman and founder of Tompkins Ventures, and a globally recognized authority on supply chain strategy. In this episode, Jim shares his incredible journey from industrial engineering to becoming a leading figure in supply chain management. Learn about his extensive experience, including starting 15 businesses, authoring 31 books, and driving profitable growth through innovation and thought leadership. Discover the impact of e-commerce on business, the importance of resilient and adaptable supply chains, and the future of global logistics.Jim is an expert in designing and implementing end-to-end supply chains, with decades of experience in supply chain strategy, warehousing and distribution, logistics, material handling, and industrial engineering. As a consultant, lecturer, and researcher, he has helped numerous companies enhance their profitable growth. In 2020, Jim founded Tompkins Ventures, a global solutions network, and co-founded Tompkins Leadership in 2022. He holds a Ph.D. in industrial engineering from Purdue University and has received numerous awards, including the Frank and Lillian Gilbreth Industrial Engineering Award.Key Highlights:Jim’s transition from industrial engineering to supply chain managementThe impact of e-commerce on business and supply chain solutionsThe importance of resilient and adaptable supply chains in today’s worldInsights into effective supply chain strategies and planningLessons from Jim’s entrepreneurial journey and his successful venturesComment your thoughts on Jim’s journey and insights into the future of supply chain management.Follow Jim Tompkins: LinkedIn: Jim TompkinsVisit Tompkins Ventures.

Today we are joined with Ronrico “Rico” Smith, a dedicated Air Force officer and candidate for Florida State House District 67. In this episode, Rico shares his remarkable journey from serving in the military to stepping into the political arena. Learn about his background as a biomedical technician and finance officer in the Air Force Reserves, his impactful community work, and what motivated him to run for office in Florida.Key Highlights:-Rico's military service and transition to a political career-His vision for addressing housing affordability, education, and infrastructure in Florida-Insights into vocational training and its importance for future generations-The challenges and rewards of running a political campaign-Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and young politicians-Don't miss this engaging discussion on how Rico plans to bring meaningful change to Florida and inspire the next generation of leaders.💬 Comment with your thoughts on Rico’s journey and vision for Florida🔗 Follow Rico Smith: Instagram @realricosmith, Twitter @realricosmith, Facebook @realricosmith🌐 Visit Rico’s campaign website: www.votericosmith.com

Today, we sit down with Scott Larson, a financial expert with over 15 years of experience in investment banking, private equity, and hedge funds. Scott founded OutFin Group in 2023, which helps founders of $2-$20 million revenue businesses prepare for profitable exits. With a background in investment banking at JPMorgan Chase and private equity experience at GCP Capital Partners, Scott shares valuable insights from his impressive career.In this episode, Scott discusses his journey from New York City's financial district to becoming an advisor for business owners. Learn about common pitfalls in the selling process and how to avoid them, the importance of financial infrastructure, and crucial steps to take 18-36 months before a sale. Scott also shares real-world examples of failed deals due to financial oversight and how strategic changes can lead to better outcomes.Whether you're an entrepreneur considering a sale, a CFO optimizing business value, or simply interested in finance, this episode offers actionable advice.Key Topics Covered:Building a solid financial foundationMaximizing business value with financial infrastructureCommon mistakes during the sale processSuccessful negotiation strategiesBenefits of partnering with financial expertsFollow Scott Larson:Website: outfingroup.comTwitter: @IAmScottLarsonDon’t miss our weekly episodes every Wednesday. Follow and subscribe to stay updated!

This episode features expert analysis on the current state of private equity, the impact of economic changes, and strategies for success. We delve into investor caution, managing overpayment for assets, and the importance of building relationships with founders and management teams. Learn about unique debt structuring methods, co-investments versus control positions, and effective sourcing strategies. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, this discussion provides valuable insights to help you succeed in the complex world of private equity. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on private equity and financial markets.

Dreaming of making the leap from investment banking to private equity? This is the episode for you! Join us as we chat with James, a key player in our private equity firm, who reveals his journey and the secrets to his success. Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at control deals, value creation, and the critical transition process. Discover the meticulous planning involved in successful deals, the importance of mentorship, and how personal branding shapes a career in high-stakes finance. Gain valuable insights into the key differences between investment banking and private equity, strategies for a successful transition, and tips for meticulous deal planning and execution. James also discusses the impact of mentorship on career growth and how personal branding can influence your success in finance. Whether you're a finance professional or just curious about the world of private equity, this episode is packed with practical advice. Tune in to learn what it takes to excel in this dynamic field. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert interviews and career tips in finance!