

HoldCo Builders
PrivatEquityGuy
The HoldCo Builders Podcast with PrivatEquityGuy is a place where you can find meaningful conversations about holding companies, entrepreneurship, small businesses, investing, and more.Be sure to follow the podcast, so you never miss an episode!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 5, 2025 • 44min
How to Build a $30M HVAC HoldCo (4 Acquisitions and Next Goal $150M)
Sam Turner, a former corporate CFO turned small business acquirer from the UK, shares his inspiring journey to freedom and fulfillment after leaving a high-paying job. He discusses the thrill and challenges of purchasing local HVAC businesses, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and thorough due diligence. Sam reveals the hybrid non-integration model that supports growth and provides insight on effective communication strategies for calming teams. With aspirations to reach $150 million by 2033, he highlights the realness of entrepreneurship and the importance of hard work in navigating acquisitions.

Sep 3, 2025 • 31min
Buying 500+ Businesses and Turning $100k Into $10B - Fernando De Leon of Leon Capital Group
Discover the entrepreneurial mindset shaped by a challenging childhood and the immigrant experience. Learn how a family holding company strategically invests across various sectors, from healthcare to technology. Gain insights into lessons from Harvard and Goldman Sachs that emphasize grit over formal education. Explore key strategies for resilient real estate growth and the transformative power of AI in property acquisitions with Crexie. This journey reflects a determination to succeed while navigating market challenges and scaling innovative ventures.

Aug 27, 2025 • 39min
How I Bought 20+ Small Farms and Built a $350M HoldCo in My 30s | Jack McCarthy Interview
Jack McCarthy, co-founder and CEO of Goldleaf Farming, shares his journey in building one of the largest specialty-crop platforms in the U.S. He discusses the strategic importance of almonds and pistachios and his method of valuing farms based on cash flow. McCarthy reveals insights on navigating climate risks, raising over $250 million, and the significance of aligning with long-term investors. His transformative shift from tech to agriculture showcases the unique challenges and operational strategies behind acquiring and scaling farms.

Aug 24, 2025 • 55min
This Is the Best $1M EBITDA Business (A Lesson From Talking to 2,000 Business Owners)
Rand Larson, CEO of Scale Path, specializes in fostering communities among small business owners. In their chat, he shares gripping stories of navigating crises, including a gripping HVAC acquisition tale. The conversation dives into the evolution of peer support—from therapeutic roots to ROI-driven groups. Rand also discusses innovative marketing through van meetups, revealing how unique branding can enhance community ties. Engaging insights on industry opportunities and the emotional benefits of connection make this talk a must-listen for entrepreneurs.

Aug 20, 2025 • 54min
We closed 7 deals in 14 months (first $140m and a portfolio of 13 companies)
Daryl Connell and Lizzie Ryan, managing partners at IMBIBA, share insights on their unique investment approach in leisure, education, and health. They reveal how they navigated the challenges of COVID-19 to close seven deals in just 14 months. The duo discusses the importance of building strong networks for acquisitions and the evolution of their investment strategy. They also delve into the nuances of operational gearing and exit timing, providing listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at their resilient portfolio construction amid market volatility.

Aug 15, 2025 • 38min
Larry Gagosian Makes $1B+ a Year Brokering Off-Market Art (While Still Owning 100% Of The Business)
Discover the secrets behind a billion-dollar art empire built on aggressive networking and strategic relationships. Learn how relentless deal-making and a focus on secondary markets drive success. Cold calling, uninvited access, and actionable tactics reveal the mindset of top entrepreneurs. Explore the importance of owning 100% of your business and leveraging relationships for greater market impact. This insight-packed discussion provides essential lessons for aspiring deal-makers and business builders.

5 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 3min
The Next Andrew Wilkinson? Building a 6-Company HoldCo (Bootstrapped with a 7-Figure Exit)
Brandon Pindulic, founder of Space Bar Ventures and a seasoned entrepreneur, shares his journey from selling his first company for seven figures to establishing a bootstrapped holding company with six thriving digital businesses. He discusses the $10K investment that sparked his most successful venture and delves into strategies for acquiring companies. Pindulic emphasizes the importance of delegation, talent recognition, and refining visions between incubations and acquisitions, providing invaluable insights for aspiring business builders.

Aug 6, 2025 • 43min
How Michael Ovitz and Steve Schwarzman From BlackStone Find 10s
Discover how to grow your B2B business through impactful newsletters. Learn the vital traits to seek in a CEO, emphasizing adaptability and the need for a supportive network. Uncover the potential in unconventional talent, focusing on curiosity over traditional credentials. Explore the innovative shift of boards from governance to active sales roles, featuring insights from prominent leaders. Finally, grasp the principles of effective talent acquisition and collaborative design for lasting success.

19 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 57min
How I Bought 4 Companies After Raising Millions from 35 Investors | Danny Vivier Interview
Danny Vivier, co-founder of Evermore, shares his journey of building a vertical SaaS portfolio focused on founder-led software companies. He discusses raising $75K from 35 investors and navigating the complexities of business acquisitions. The conversation covers managing post-acquisition chaos, embracing 'boring' businesses with strong moats, and balancing work-life challenges, especially during personal milestones like parenthood. Danny's insights into effective time management and strategic partnerships provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Jul 29, 2025 • 47min
Follow This Private Equity Model and You'll Win (They Turned a $25K Loan Into a $15B AUM Fund)
Discover the secrets behind transforming a small loan into a $15 billion fund. The focus is on prioritizing human capital over traditional finance, emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent. Gain insight into the significance of willpower and purpose in building a successful business. Hear inspiring stories of overcoming challenges and innovative investment strategies that shift the landscape of private equity. Learn how to build platforms before acquisitions to ensure sustainable growth.