Think Like an Owner

Alex de Pfyffer and Ross Porter, founders of Heritage Holding, discuss their impressive growth journey, having built seven platforms through 25 acquisitions. They share insights on the strategic decision-making behind divesting businesses and how initial acquisitions shape future investments. The duo emphasizes the importance of a strong team in navigating rapid changes and fostering collaboration. They also touch on the value of partnerships with business founders, operational efficiency, and the fast-paced culture that drives their success.

Jeff Homer, a dynamic leader in the arts education sector, discusses his innovative work in acquiring and integrating music schools and dance studios through Ensemble Performing Arts. He shares insights from his impressive track record of 70 acquisitions over five years. Topics include the challenges of consolidating organizations, the role of servant leadership, and strategies for hiring culturally aligned personnel. Jeff also delves into the financial aspects of music and dance education, exploring investment opportunities and the complexities of real estate in school operations.

In this discussion, Justin Watt, co-founder of Switchboard, shares insights on how automation and AI can transform businesses for efficiency. He emphasizes the importance of structured data and outlines the three pillars of modernization: people, process, and technology. Justin also tackles the challenges of integrating new software tools and navigating the AI hype, encouraging companies to ask critical questions when evaluating these technologies. Lastly, he addresses common frustrations with current AI applications and the potential for streamlined HR processes.

Discover the launch of Airframe Group, focused on transforming industrial services and distribution. The speaker reflects on their journey and insights gained from interacting with over 250 CEOs. They emphasize the importance of skilled teams for business growth and invite listeners to connect for collaboration. Excitement for future opportunities is palpable as they explore how the podcast can continue to bridge ideas between business owners and aspiring professionals.

Chris Hoffmann, President and CEO of Hoffmann Brothers, has steered his home services business from $10 million to over $100 million in revenue within eight years. He shares insights on building strong executive teams and the importance of a specialized training program for talent development. The conversation delves into strategic debt management for business growth, the challenges of industry consolidation, and innovative ways to enhance employee engagement and morale. Hoffmann's unique family office approach highlights effective cash management and investment strategies in the home services market.

CEO of SafeGraph and partner at Flex Capital, Auren Hoffman, discusses the slow growth in data buyer’s market, challenges in scaling data companies, team management, and applying B2B SaaS playbook. Topics also include sales process at SafeGraph, reinventing as a CEO, auditing time, and traits for recruiting executives.

Sara Heston, a Stanford researcher, discusses key insights from the 2024 Search Fund Study, including shifts in searcher demographics, trends in returns, and industry dynamics. Topics cover the decline in investors, the evolution of searchers' backgrounds, and long-term hold strategies. An informative primer on Search Funds for those new to the model.

Harvard professors Rick Ruback & Royce Yudkoff talk about writing the bible of search funds, common threads in case studies, advice for new CEOs, changes in search, and their podcast. They discuss challenging scenarios for CEOs, buying cyclical businesses, and the evolution of search funds. Topics include teaching effectiveness, reasons for buying cyclical businesses, and the benefits of self-funded search.

Anand Sanwal, founder of CB Insights, discusses stepping down as CEO, hiring a new CEO, and creating an entrepreneurial school. Topics include evaluating CEO effectiveness, building repeatable processes, executive recruiting, effective time management for new CEOs, and tactics for influencing company culture. Also, delves into the importance of speed and agility for insurgent companies and empowering young entrepreneurs through innovative school models.

Brett Kelly, CEO of Kelly Partners, shares insights on building a global accounting firm through strategic acquisitions and innovation. He discusses his consolidation playbook, technology integration, and future goals. Inspired by leaders like Warren Buffett, Brett emphasizes the importance of partnerships, self-awareness, and continuous improvement for success in the industry. The podcast explores Kelly Partners' journey, the impact of going public, and the role of AI in accounting.