LeverUp ™️ : A podcast on Private Equity and Entrepreneurship
Paul W. Swaney III
Welcome to LeverUp™️: Empowering Your Entrepreneurial JourneyLeverUp™️ is more than a podcast—it's a catalyst for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to redefine the American Dream. While the conventional dream might be homeownership, we believe true fulfillment comes from owning your business and mastering the art of entrepreneurship.Diving deep into the realms of banking, consulting, and private equity finance, LeverUp® is designed to arm you with the knowledge, strategies, and insights needed to navigate the challenging yet rewarding path of entrepreneurship. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your venture, our podcast provides actionable advice, expert interviews, and a treasure trove of resources aimed at accelerating your journey.At the heart of LeverUp® is our commitment to disrupt the prevailing trend of overpriced and underdelivering entrepreneurship courses. Our initiative is founded on the principles of "Inorganic Entrepreneurship," a mentorship-driven approach that democratizes access to essential business knowledge and fosters a community of like-minded individuals.By subscribing to LeverUp®, you'll unlock access to:Exclusive interviews with industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs.Expert financial advice tailored to the unique challenges of entrepreneurship.Comprehensive resources designed to propel your business forward.LeverUp® is not just a strategic partner for career advancement; it's a movement dedicated to building a new generation of American entrepreneurs. It's time to move beyond the cottage industry of entrepreneurship courses that add no value and embrace a more viable, impactful career path.Subscribe to LeverUp® today and take the first step towards unlocking your potential as an entrepreneur. Let's embark on this journey together and transform your aspirations into reality.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 10, 2024 • 51min
From Special Forces To COO: Leadership Lessons From The Frontlines With Robert ‘Bo’ Plante III [Season 1: Episode 11]
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!
Jul 3, 2024 • 41min
Wayback Wednesday | Getting The Best Price For Your Business: Expert Advice From Scott Larson [Season 1: Episode 10]
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!
Jun 26, 2024 • 46min
The Evolution of FinTech: A Conversation with Ryan Harrington | LeverUp® Podcast
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
Jun 19, 2024 • 38min
The Future Of Supply Chains: Expert Insights From Jim Tompkins | LeverUp® Podcast [Season 1: Episode 8]
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.
Jun 5, 2024 • 41min
Getting the Best Price for Your Business: Expert Advice from Scott Larson
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!
May 29, 2024 • 37min
Private Equity in 2024: What can we expect ?| LeverUp® Podcast Episode 5
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.
May 22, 2024 • 10min
Making the Switch from Investment Banking to Private Equity
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!
May 15, 2024 • 13min
A Young Entrepreneur's Journey from Childhood Work to Business Ownership
In this episode, we sat down with a young entrepreneur who started in family business at 12 years old and quickly advanced to business ownership. Discover how hands-on experience shaped his path over traditional education, and how he navigated challenges in the competitive realms of private equity and finance. This conversation is packed with insights on resilience, strategic decision-making, and the realities of entrepreneurial success.
May 8, 2024 • 23min
Strategic Command: Military Precision in Private Equity | Episode 2
Join us for a compelling episode with Trey Fischer, a former Navy SEAL who has transitioned into a successful private equity strategist.In this discussion, Trey shares how he applies rigorous military precision and leadership skills to the private equity sector. Explore the significant impact of military discipline on private equity investment strategies, business transformation, and operational efficiency. Gain insights into how the unique combination of military experience and financial expertise can drive substantial growth and value creation in the competitive world of private equity. Don't miss this deep dive into the integration of elite military training with sophisticated financial practices in private equity.
Apr 5, 2024 • 13min
The Fundamentals of Personal Branding and Why it's Crucial for Finance Professionals.
In this episode, we tackle the real questions behind career satisfaction and growth. Forget the salary comparisons; We're diving into the six key areas that truly matter for a fulfilling career. From creating a lasting impact and aligning with your values to intellectual growth, lifestyle choices, and beyond. Get ready to explore how to make career choices that resonate deeply with your personal and professional aspirations. Join us for insights that could redefine your approach to career opportunities.
