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Buy and Build

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Feb 23, 2025 • 47min

Ep 95: American Searcher (and Stand-up Comic) Embarks on a Traditional UK Search Fund – Allison Stuckless, Vericor Capital

In this episode, we speak with Allie Stuckless, a great friend and former JPMorgan colleague, about her transition from banking to launching a UK-based search fund. Allie has a fascinating background and has taken a unique path into the search/ETA world.  During the episode, we discuss the challenges of fundraising, her passion for lifecycle services (including the funeral industry), and the lessons she's learned along the way. Allie shares insights on navigating the UK search fund ecosystem, the key differences between US and European search models, and the importance of finding the right investors. Tune in for an engaging discussion packed with actionable advice for searchers, operators, and anyone considering the buy-and-build path! ------ The the next Buy and Build Acquisition Accelerator will be taking place in late spring and we have gone live with discounted tickets while we pick a date. Check out:  https://www.buyandbuildaccelerator.com/ to learn more.
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Jan 30, 2025 • 49min

Ep 94: From Startup Struggles to £5 Billion Exit: Jeremy Middleton’s Entrepreneurial Journey

In this episode of Buy & Build, we sit down with Jeremy Middleton, co-founder of HomeServe, who later exited and is now CEO of Middleton Enterprises, his family investment office. We dive into his journey from corporate life at Procter & Gamble to building a FTSE 100 business and leading it to a £5 billion exit. Jeremy shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including the hard lessons of early entrepreneurship, how he and his co-founder pivoted a failing business into a national success, and his contrarian take on acquisitions. Now, as an investor, he reveals what he looks for in scalable businesses, his founder-friendly investment approach, and why cash flow is king. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or just fascinated by the business of building companies, this episode is packed with raw insights and hard-earned wisdom. Check out the Middleton Enterprises website: https://middletonenterprises.com/ for more on thier investment criteria.  -- There are still seats available for the next Buy and Build Acquisition Accelerator in just over a week's time. Check out: https://www.buyandbuildaccelerator.com/ to learn more.
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Dec 17, 2024 • 33min

Ep 93: From Intern to “Interns as a Service”: Daniel Ewart’s Journey from Search Fund Intern to Entrepreneur

In this episode, we’re joined by Daniel Ewart, one of the youngest guests to date, who shares his unexpected entry into the search fund world. From his hands-on experience as an intern supporting proprietary outreach to launching an "interns as a service" business, Daniel offers a fresh perspective on deal sourcing and scaling support for searchers. Learn about the challenges of cold calling, the intricacies of sifting through data, and the unique approach Daniel is taking to help others in the search fund space. A must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and searchers alike! ----- We would recommend reaching out to Rob for a complimentary introductory session to learn how EOS can help you and your business goals. visit www.mission-group.co.uk or email Rob at rob@mission-group.co.uk to learn more.  
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Dec 8, 2024 • 36min

Ep 92 - Scaling with EOS: Lessons in Leadership, Vision, and Growth with Rob Liddiard

In this episode of the Buy and Build podcast, Paul and Rob Liddiard (Paul's EOS implementer), have a fascinating discussion on the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and its implementation within Paul's business Amber Home Improvements. Host Paul and Rob explore the practicalities of scaling a business while remaining true to its core values, operational challenges, and long-term vision. Paul shares candid insights from his quarterly check-ins, touching on the impact of aligning teams with core values, navigating leadership challenges, and the benefits of right-person-right-seat decisions. The conversation highlights a standout success story about restructuring a key sales role, leading to record-breaking quarterly sales and revitalizing team morale. Listeners gain a behind-the-scenes look at operational strategies, from using the Vision/Traction Organizer (VTO) to tackling real-world issues like market shifts, employee retention, and cultural alignment. The discussion is enriched with relatable anecdotes, practical EOS applications, and valuable lessons on maintaining accountability and fostering growth in a dynamic business landscape. Whether you're an entrepreneur exploring EOS or a business operator looking for actionable insights, this episode offers an honest and inspiring perspective on running and scaling a small business. We would recommend reaching out to Rob for a complimentary introductory session to learn how EOS can help you and your business goals. visit www.mission-group.co.uk or email Rob at rob@mission-group.co.uk to learn more. 
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Oct 28, 2024 • 50min

Ep 91 - From Sports Coach to Acquisition Pro: Craig Brennan’s Playbook for Scaling Through Acquisition

To register for the practical IDS session with Rob Liddiard (Paul's EOS implementer), follow this link:  https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0rd-CprDkuH9YwmWrSyBm4-D7mDrybyfky  --- Also, we still have 3 seats available for the early access, discounted price, for the next Buy and Build Accelerator. Grab your ticket now at: https://www.buyandbuildaccelerator.com/  - In this engaging episode of Buy and Build, Paul welcomes back Craig Brennan, a seasoned expert in buying and building multi-business groups. Craig shares insights from his extensive journey, growing his companies through both organic growth and acquisitions across diverse sectors. With his origins in community sports coaching, Craig expanded into PPA educational services and eventually entered the nursery market, applying a systematic, acquisition-driven strategy to broaden his portfolio. The discussion dives into Craig’s approaches to deal flow, acquisition criteria, and the delicate balance of integration without micromanagement. He explains the critical role of delegating operational tasks to a trusted team, which allows him to focus on deal-making and high-level strategy. Craig also shares how he implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to align his team around a unified vision, enhance accountability, and prepare his businesses for sustainable growth. Listen in to gain insights into managing acquisitions at scale, navigating complex deal structures, and leveraging EOS to foster organizational resilience and growth. Enjoy!
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Oct 16, 2024 • 47min

Ep 90: From Search to Acquisition in 6 Months [While Employed] - Toby Henry's Self-Funded Search Journey

Still 3 seats available for the early access, discounted price, for the next Buy and Build Accelerator.  https://www.buyandbuildaccelerator.com/ ----------------------------   In this episode of Buy and Build, we chat with Toby Henry, founder of Full Circle Capital, who shares his rapid journey from starting his search to closing his first acquisition in just six months. Toby dives into how he balanced a full-time job while navigating the self-funded search process, leading to the acquisition of Accelerator Solutions. We explore his creative deal structuring, the importance of partnering with the right people, and how family support played a key role in his decision-making. Tune in to hear valuable insights into Toby's criteria for selecting a business, his approach to growth, and future plans for Full Circle Capital. Whether you're beginning your acquisition journey or looking for strategies to accelerate your own, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge for entrepreneurs in the UK ETA space. ---------------------------- For those interested in learning more about EOS, reach out to Rob Liddiard to book you free introductory session. https://www.mission-group.co.uk/ 
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Oct 10, 2024 • 45min

Ep 89: How Tobyn Brooks Overcame Incredible Adversity to Build (then Buy) a portfolio of Auto-Related Businesses

Sign up now for the early access discounted price for the next Buy and Build Accelerator. https://www.buyandbuildaccelerator.com/ ------------------------ In this inspiring episode, Tobyn Brooks shares his incredible journey from overcoming personal challenges to building a thriving business with The Figaro Shop and now rolling up vehicle service centers.  At the age of 13, Tobyn dropped out of school and fell victim to addiction, and shortly thereafter became a drug mule. After having spent 15-20 years on the streets, undergoing multiple surgeries to repair the damage done to his body, Tobyn incredibly turned his life around. It was not an easy journey but through incredible resilience and a motivation to do good in the world, he has grown an incredible business and achieved some phenomenal athletic achievements along the way.  On the business side, Tobyn's insights into leadership, operational efficiency, and the future of the automotive industry make this a must-listen for entrepreneurs and business leaders alike. We hope you enjoy this inspiring and moving episode.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobyn-brooks-7492642a/  -------- For those interested in learning more about EOS, reach out to Rob Liddiard to book you free introductory session. https://www.mission-group.co.uk/ 
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Sep 23, 2024 • 46min

Ep 88: How a Former Uber General Manager Transitioned to SME Operating and Investing (Fouzan Ali, MD of Combined Services)

Early bird access is live for the next B+B Search Accelerator, at a reduced fee for the first 5 sign-ups.  https://www.buyandbuildaccelerator.com/  The date is still TBD but any conflicts can be refunded or rolled to the next event.  Enjoy the podcast.  ----- In this episode, we sit down with Fouzan Ali, an operator-turned-investor who recently closed his first acquisition, a 32-year-old business with strong foundations and growth potential.  He shares his unique approach to scaling while focusing on operational efficiency and long-term value creation. We dive into his search process, key acquisition criteria, and the importance of building trust with sellers. He also discusses balancing risks and opportunities, as well as the need to address inefficiencies before considering further expansion or roll-ups. Tune in to hear thoughtful insights on building a lasting business while driving growth. ------ For those interested in learning more about EOS, reach out to Rob Liddiard to book you free introductory session. https://www.mission-group.co.uk/ 
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Sep 17, 2024 • 48min

Ep 87: From UK Fund Manager to Industrial Holdco Builder - Mark Wharrier's Journey

Only 1 week to go to until the Buy and Build Search Accelerator. If you want to acquire a great business, quicker, come and learn from these experts. https://www.buyandbuildaccelerator.com/  -------------------------------------- In this episode of The Buy and Build Podcast, host Paul chats with Mark Wharrier, co-founder of Scientific Partners, about his transition from UK equity fund management to acquiring niche industrial businesses. Mark shares insights into his acquisition strategy, focusing on founder-led, high-margin companies with untapped growth potential. Tune in to hear Mark's thoughtful approach to long-term investing, fostering founder relationships, and growing businesses without the pressure of debt.
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Sep 9, 2024 • 35min

Ep 86: Acquiring the Biggest Name in Branded Podcasting (from a listed entity) with Harry Morton [Founder of Lower Street Media]

This week on Buy and Build, we sit down with Harry Morton, founder of Lower Street Media, a full-service podcast agency that recently made headlines by acquiring Pacific Content, the leading name in branded podcasting. In this episode, Harry shares the fascinating backstory behind the acquisition. When Rogers Communications decided to offload Pacific Content as a non-core asset, Harry saw an exciting opportunity. Leveraging his strong relationship with Pacific Content’s senior team, he moved quickly to seal the deal. Of course, the road to acquisition wasn’t without its challenges—tune in to hear how Harry navigated them. We also dive into why Harry started Lower Street Media in 2017, the evolving trends in podcasting, and his vision for the future as he integrates Pacific Content and continues to scale. It’s an episode packed with insights for anyone interested in podcasting, acquisitions, or entrepreneurial growth!

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