Redesign Your Business to Work for You—Not the Other Way Around. Hey there, I’m Ryan Tansom, and I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to be stuck in the grind of running a business. In 2009, I jumped into my family’s $21 million company when it was losing nearly $1 million a year. Over five years, we turned it around and sold it for eight figures—but the journey left me with more questions than answers. The stress, the massive tax bill, and the lack of clarity on how our decisions aligned with our goals taught me one thing: most owners don’t have a roadmap to navigate the complexities of business ownership. That’s why I created the Independence by Design™ Ownership Framework. It’s a system built to help owner-operators like you align your decisions with your goals for time, cash flow, and wealth. Over the last decade, I’ve been involved in dozens of transactions and worked with thousands of business owners, helping them shift from being stuck in the day-to-day grind to designing businesses—and lives—they love. On this podcast, I’ll show you how to escape the owner-operator trap by using the Independence by Design™ Framework to make better decisions, create sustainable cash flow, and reclaim your time. I’ll also bring in some of the smartest minds I’ve had the privilege of interviewing, like Gino Wickman, Mike Michalowicz, Chris Voss, Jack Stack, and Bo Burlingham, to challenge and inspire you along the way. This isn’t just another business podcast. Like Andrew Huberman does for science, I get into the weeds, following my curiosity and trying to be as comprehensive as possible. It’s your guide to mastering the game of ownership—whether you’re scaling, stepping back, or planning your exit. If you’re ready to take back control and finally build a business that works for you, not the other way around, you’re in the right place.
More revenue, more employees, and more complexity can actually pull you deeper into the day-to-day grind—unless your business is structured the right way. Watch on YouTube In this episode, I sit down with Nick Bradley, a business growth strategist and private equity veteran who has worked on billion-dollar deals and now helps business owners scale with purpose. We dive into the hidden traps of scaling, why private equity firms are changing their approach, and how to transition from being stuck in the business to running it like an investor. We also get into the critical distinction between cash flow and strategic valuation, why most exit planning advice is broken, and how owners can create optionality—whether they want to sell or simply step back from the daily grind. If you’re wondering how to build a business that truly works for you, this episode is a must-listen.Nick Bradley is a business growth strategist, entrepreneur, and private equity veteran who has built, bought, and sold over 100 businesses. With a background in high-stakes M&A and multi-billion-dollar exits, he now helps business owners scale with purpose—focusing on sustainable value creation, strategic exits, and operational independence. As the host of the Scale Up with Nick Bradley podcast and a sought-after advisor, Nick specializes in transforming businesses into scalable, sellable assets while helping owners reclaim their time and financial freedom. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction of Nick Bradley, his background in private equity (03:42) Discussion on exit planning and its meaning for owner-operators (08:06) Investment bankers vs. private equity operating partners (14:33) Nick's focus on service-based businesses and scaling strategy (18:52) Two business types: lifestyle vs. growth-focused companies (26:42) Addiction to goal achievement, clear personal vision before business goals (31:29) Understanding the constraints of time, cashflow, and wealth (40:11) The value of short-term actions and three-year planning horizons (54:31) Lifestyle businesses, income realities for business owners in the messy middle (01:14:45) Private equity evolution and adaptation to higher interest rates (01:27:08) The power of niching down in service-based businesses (01:40:45) Building a sustainable business model for uncertain times Rate, comment and share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the chall...
3/13/25 • 105:48
Many business owners dream of building a company that thrives without them, but few understand what it takes to make that a reality—especially when facing a leadership crisis. In this episode, I sit down with Heather Braimbridge-Cox, CEO of Windings, and Bill Mills, founder of The Leadership Process™, to break down how to transform a struggling culture, develop high-performing teams, and turn an ESOP into a thriving, scalable business. Watch on YouTube Heather shares her journey from private equity executive to leading a 100% employee-owned company through a complete turnaround—one that took engagement scores from crisis mode to elite levels, increased productivity to 99.8%, and turned a struggling manufacturing business into a cash-generating machine that now acquires other companies. Bill walks us through the leadership and execution gaps that trap so many business owners and how to build a culture where people take ownership of results. If you're struggling to get your team fully aligned, wondering how to scale leadership beyond yourself, or considering how employee ownership (ESOPs) can create long-term value, this episode is packed with insights you can apply immediately. Heather Braimbridge-Cox is the CEO of Windings, Inc., a 100% employee-owned precision manufacturing company. After years in private equity, she transitioned to leading an ESOP and discovered a powerful, people-driven approach to building long-term enterprise value. Under her leadership, Windings transformed from a struggling business to an industry leader, growing revenue, tripling profitability, and making strategic acquisitions. She’s passionate about financial transparency, employee ownership, and creating businesses that thrive beyond any single leader. Bill Mills is the founder of The Leadership Process™, a system designed to eliminate execution gaps and create high-performing teams. With decades of experience coaching CEOs and leadership teams, he specializes in removing friction, increasing accountability, and building cultures that drive results. His approach has helped companies scale, reduce turnover, and create a leadership pipeline that sustains growth. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction of Heather Braimbridge-Cox and recap of achievements (02:38) Heather's background in private equity and operations (05:08) Personal journey from Jamaica to Windings CEO (11:48) Taking over leadership of a struggling ESOP company in 2015, electric motors and unhappy customers (18:15) Ferrari, Formula One, customer service breakdown and cultural misalignment examples (22:30) Re-education on financials and transparent business communication (30:35) Identifying the need for social strategy alongside growth (40:07) Addressing organizational drama and employee interference issues (48:53) Implementation of cross-functional teams and engagement process (59:02) Leadership evolution and developing patience and empathy during transformation (01:07:41) The 3-15 tool and replacing annual reviews system (01:12:24) Measurable results: productivity increase...
3/6/25 • 98:06
I’ve spent the last handful of episodes diving deep into business valuations, M&A jargon, and how buyers think about value. But here’s the thing—most of it doesn’t matter unless you actually have cash left over at the end of the day. Watch on YouTube That’s why I brought Patrick Donohue back on the show. He and I have been in the trenches, working with owner-operators who are juggling cash flow, making sense of the noise, and trying to figure out how to actually use their business to create wealth. In this episode, we strip away the BS and focus on the fundamentals—how to manage and maximize free cash flow so you have real options as an owner. Patrick and I talk about why EBITDA is misleading, how financial jargon is designed to confuse business owners, and how to structure your company’s financials to serve your ownership goals. If you want to ensure you’re making financial decisions that actually increase your freedom—not just grow revenue for the sake of it—this episode is a must-listen.Patrick Donohue is an investor, entrepreneur, and author of Breakout Valuation. As the founder of Hill Capital Corporation, he helps privately held business owners access the capital they need to grow without giving up control. His mission is to simplify financial decision-making so that entrepreneurs can focus on what really matters—building a profitable, cash-flowing business that serves their long-term ownership goals.Chapters: (00:00) Discussion of independence, value creation and free cash flow fundamentals (06:53) The problem with Wall Street complexity and financial terminology (08:44) Examining the role of valuation businesses and industry complexity (13:05) Hill Capital's approach to business investment and returns, dangers of predatory fintech and merchant cash advances (19:01) Real-world example of factoring costs and cash flow struggles (24:40) Breaking down merchant funding attributes and warning signs (30:16) Understanding capital matching and funding incentives (42:49) Discussion of business forecasting and economic engine optimization (52:26) Analysis of capital matching and funding options for growth, demographic changes on business cash flow (01:05:49) Dell Computer example and cash conversion optimization (01:15:47) Exploring business exit options and maintaining company culture (01:20:04) Closing thoughts on entrepreneur options, decision-making, and peer connections Rate, comment and share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goal...
2/27/25 • 86:08
Most business owners go through a pivotal moment—their first real look behind the curtain at how buyers value companies. For Rens Hayes, that moment came when he went through a sale and due diligence process for his father’s structural steel business. What he learned from that experience completely changed how he approached building and scaling his own company, H&O Structural Engineering. Watch on YouTube In this episode of Independence by Design™, Rens and I break down how he engineered his business for value creation, using Ken Sanginario’s Engineer’s Value Opportunity Profile (VOP) as his roadmap. Instead of scaling haphazardly, Rens built his company by systematically improving the eight functional areas that drive business valuation—the same areas buyers care about most. Rens and his partner have taken a deliberate approach to aligning cash flow, valuation timelines, and growth goals, ensuring that every dollar reinvested moves them closer to financial independence. Whether you are preparing for an eventual exit or simply want to build a business that works for you instead of the other way around, this conversation is packed with insights that will change the way you think about scaling, hiring executives, and managing risk.Rens Hayes is a structural engineer and entrepreneur who transformed H&O Structural Engineering by applying enterprise value principles to modernize the traditional engineering industry. After experiencing due diligence firsthand, he shifted from operator to owner mindset, implementing Ken Sanginario's Value Opportunity Profile to align business growth with long-term value creation. Hayes helps real estate developers maximize returns through strategic design and cost-efficient engineering, while sharing insights on scaling, capital allocation, and executive hiring—expertise valuable for business owners seeking to build wealth-generating enterprises rather than just larger companies.Chapters: (00:00) Ryan and Rens reconnect after several years and discuss their shared experience in Ken Sanginario's CVGA training program (02:16) Rens’ journey with H&O Structural Engineering and his decision to not take over his family's steel business (04:07) The importance of organized financial data and M&A understanding (07:10) Ken's eight business functions framework and how small business owners often excel in only a few areas (11:24) Risk assessment and the strategic approach to capital deployment in business growth (15:19) Personal drive, potential, and the relationship between noble goals and motivation (21:47) Rens' relationship with co-founder Jeremiah (34:23) Marketing strategy in professional services, development of compelling offers (43:13) Data-driven decision-making in marketing and sales efforts (49:51) Transitioning from founder-led to executive team leadership (56:47) Open book management and team-wide bonus structures tied to company performance (1:31:47) Developing a predictable revenue engine as a foundation for strategic executive hiring Rate, comment and share with the owner/operators yo...
2/20/25 • 100:27
In a world full of business jargon and complicated metrics, free cash flow stands out as the foundation of value creation for both owner-operators and investors. kXVm3nQBij8 Watch on YouTube Ken Sanginario returns to focus on this core principle, unpacking the noise around financial metrics and zeroing in on sustainable free cash flow—cash available after debt, taxes, and working capital. Together, we demystify the jargon that often confuses owner-operators and show how prioritizing free cash flow is the key to growing value over time. We explore how Ken’s VOP system helps business owners identify where to place their time and reinvestment to maximize value while freeing themselves from the grind of day-to-day operations. By understanding how to measure and optimize free cash flow, owner-operators can shift from being laborers in their businesses to being true owners of a valuable asset. This episode builds on everything we’ve discussed in recent episodes—valuations, owner-operator goals, buyer goals, deal structures—and ties it to a core principle: sustainable free cash flow is the outcome of a well-run business that creates value with its time, resources, and strategy. If you’re ready to simplify the noise, focus on what matters, and start building a business that works for you, this episode is your guide. Ken Sanginario is the founder of Corporate Value Metrics and the creator of the Value Opportunity Profile (VOP), a tool that helps business owners identify where to focus their time and resources to grow sustainable value. Ken specializes in simplifying complex financial and operational concepts, empowering owners to take control of their business’s future. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction, free cash flow and business value (05:41) Misleading business valuations and multiples in the marketplace (08:25) Deal structures and the reality of business transactions (12:00) Weighted average cost of capital and business financing concepts, the relationship between debt, equity, and optimal capital structure (16:00) How opportunity cost and investment returns inform business decisions (24:17) Return on equity versus cash flow metrics, valuing business cash flows and taxation (34:32) Analyzing financial metrics and opportunity costs, using IRR (41:08) Balancing owner distributions with business reinvestment needs (49:40) Connecting financial projections with operational constraints, sustainable cash flow in building business value (1:06:28) How business owners navigate expert advice and competing priorities, owner vs. operators (1:13:00) Creating sustainable growth through business balance (1:15:27) Closing thoughts on imp...
2/13/25 • 80:13
Most business owners focus on the offer price when selling their business—but the deal structure is what ultimately determines how much you walk away with, when you get it, and how much risk you take on. Watch on YouTube In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Dave Diehl, CEO of Prairie Capital Advisors, to demystify the complex world of deal structures. Dave walks us through the key components of a transaction—working capital adjustments, earnouts, equity rollovers, seller financing—and how these elements impact the final proceeds for a seller. We also explore how deal structures reflect both buyer and seller goals, and why aligning these goals is critical to a successful transaction. If you’ve ever been confused by the fine print in a deal or wondered why buyers push for certain terms, this conversation will give you clarity and confidence to navigate your own transition. This episode builds on the foundations from previous episodes, diving into the practical details of how deals are structured and the hidden factors that can significantly impact your outcome. Whether you’re preparing to sell, thinking ahead, or just trying to understand what a good deal looks like, this conversation is packed with insights and actionable advice. Dave Diehl is the CEO of Prairie Capital Advisors, specializing in helping business owners navigate the complexities of M&A transactions and ESOPs. With decades of experience in deal structuring, Dave has guided countless owners through successful transitions, ensuring their goals are front and center. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction, discussing deal structures, understanding working capital (04:11) Impact of working capital on business sales, optimizing cash flow and working capital (13:30) Transitioning to deal structures, Prairie Capital Advisors' approach (19:15) Balancing ownership and operations (27:14) Earnouts and their implications (38:32) Valuation and fair value, seller notes in acquisitions, private equity buyers and capital challenges, the role of equity in private equity deals (44:08) Risks and realities of private equity investments, including the impact of debt on company growth, challenges with private equity and debt structures, and the importance of evaluating assumptions in private equity deals. Additionally, we'll explore due diligence, partner selection, and the different types of buyers and their expectations (53:36) The ESOP option: Benefits and considerations, structuring ESOPs for optimal outcomes, ESOPs vs. private equity sales (1:06:44) Estate planning and warrants in ESOPs, operational strategies and value growth (1:16:05) Prairie Capital Advisors: Client profiles and services (1:20:04) Conclusion and final thoughts Rate, comment and share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turn...
2/6/25 • 82:10
Most business owners think a high offer price is the ultimate goal in selling their business—but the truth is, every buyer has their own game plan, and not all offers are created equal. Watch on YouTube In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Jeff Buettner from ButcherJoseph to explore how private equity firms, strategic buyers, and family offices approach acquisitions and structure deals to meet their goals. We break down the nuances of each buyer type, their timelines, and their financial structures so you can better understand what they value and how their goals might align (or conflict) with yours. We also discuss how to position your business for the right buyer, evaluate offers beyond the headline number, and ensure the deal you choose fits with your long-term ownership goals. If you’ve ever wondered what drives buyers’ decisions or how their priorities impact your transaction, this conversation will demystify the process. Jeff Buettner is a seasoned advisor at ButcherJoseph, specializing in helping business owners navigate the complexities of M&A transactions. With deep experience in private equity, strategic acquisitions, and family office deals, Jeff has guided countless owners through the sale process, aligning transactions with their financial and personal goals. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and guest overview with Jeff Buettner from ButcherJoseph, why understanding buyers’ goals is critical for owner-operators, ESOPs, Private Equity, and Third-Party Buyers (12:00) Financial and strategic buyer motivations: hurdle rates and cost of capital (25:10) Navigating buyer-seller assumptions in acquisitions, aligning buyer and seller goals: how mismatched timelines and objectives can lead to deal tension (30:45) Preparing your business for sale: practical steps to make your company attractive to different types of buyers (44:00) Evaluating acquisition transaction structures: ESOPs, tax savings, and deal challenges, what large corporations look for in acquisitions and how they drive shareholder value, private equity transaction structuring: leveraged buyouts and growth CapEx (48:37) Analyzing ESOP vs. third-party sale- pros, cons, and strategic considerations (56:00) Maximizing free cash flow and transition ownership: management buyouts and ESOP planning (1:01:40) Navigating business value and capitalization: market dynamics, financial engineering, and operational improvements (1:11:00) Closing thoughts - macro environment, the new administration, current lending and investment landscape Rate, comment and share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals.
1/30/25 • 76:07
As a business owner, you’ve likely heard terms like EBITDA, working capital, and Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC)—but do they feel relevant to your day-to-day decisions? In this episode, I sit down with Ken Sanginario and John Lawlor to demystify these concepts and show how they directly impact your ability to grow, scale, and transition your business. Watch on YouTube We’ll explore how to measure and grow your business’s value using actionable tools, like Ken’s Value Opportunity Profile (VOP), that connect financial performance to your ownership goals. Whether you’re thinking about selling in the next few years, stepping back from day-to-day operations, or just getting a clearer picture of your business, this conversation will help you build a roadmap for sustainable growth. This episode is packed with practical advice and relatable insights that will bridge the gap between high-level financial concepts and the operational realities you face as an owner-operator. Let’s make the numbers work for you, not the other way around. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why valuation is more than just a multiple of EBITDA—and how it reflects how well your business operates without you. The connection between operational efficiency, financial metrics, and long-term business value. How the Value Opportunity Profile helps you identify areas to improve your business. What buyers look for in a business—and how to position yours for maximum value. How to connect financial metrics to your personal ownership goals, whether it’s scaling, selling, or stepping back. Ken Sanginario is the founder of Corporate Value Metrics and the creator of the Value Opportunity Profile (VOP), a system designed to assess and enhance the eight functional areas of a business. With over 30 years of experience as a CPA, business advisor, and valuation expert, Ken has worked with countless owner-operators to help them unlock sustainable growth, increase equity value, and achieve their ownership goals. His practical, results-driven approach ties financial fundamentals to strategic decision-making, making him a trusted partner for business owners looking to maximize their independence.John Lawlor is a seasoned business advisor, leadership coach, and expert in organizational development. With over two decades of experience helping businesses scale effectively, John specializes in aligning leadership, culture, and operations to create high-performing organizations. A key collaborator in the development and application of the VOP, John brings a deep understanding of how behavior and strategic planning drive business success. His focus on fostering communication and engagement across all levels of a company has made him a sought-after resource for owner-operators aiming to build businesses that work without them. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction of guests John and Ken: Why understanding your business’s value matters for owner-operators (06:00) Intro to guests, John's background and his focus on helping businesses improve, how John and Ken began working together (10:00) Ryan's journey of understanding weighted average cost of capital and return on equity, explanation of inconsistent accounting...
1/23/25 • 112:17
Running a business often feels like juggling flaming torches—especially when cash flow, growth, and operations clash with your personal goals. Today, I sit down with Jimmy Fritz, a good friend and second-generation business owner of The Wedding Shoppe and Kennedy Blue, to unpack his journey from being entrenched in daily operations to becoming a true owner-operator. Jimmy’s experience of taking over his family’s wedding business and e-commerce brand is packed with lessons on managing growth, aligning operations with ownership goals, and achieving financial independence. Watch on YouTube Jimmy’s journey reflects what so many of us face: balancing family business dynamics, operational challenges, and the ultimate question—what's the point of all this? From chasing vanity metrics and enduring financial chaos to implementing EOS and redefining ownership, Jimmy shares the frameworks and lessons that enabled him to align his business operations with his time, cash flow, and wealth goals. You’ll hear how he weathered the pandemic, leveraged EOS, and integrated a financial roadmap to simplify decisions and drive sustainable success. Whether you’re struggling with delegation, financial forecasting, or just trying to step out of daily operations, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you design a business—and a life—that works for you. Jimmy Fritz is a second-generation entrepreneur and owner of a family-run wedding retail business and an e-commerce brand. With a passion for strategic planning and financial clarity, Jimmy has transformed his companies to align with his personal goals of time freedom and wealth creation. Through his journey, he’s mastered the art of balancing operational efficiency and long-term ownership success. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction: Jimmy Fritz, evolution of second-generation business ownership (04:30) The family business transition: Navigating second-generation challenges, the revenue vs. profit myth, breaking free of vanity metrics (12:40) Implementing EOS: The good, the bad, and the ugly (18:20) Pandemic resets: How COVID forced clarity on cash flow (23:10) Redefining success: From scaling chaos to sustainable profits, navigating growth and delegation in business (37:14) Strategies for entrepreneurial growth, aligning goals with operations, the time-cashflow-wealth framework, managing business growth and financial accountability (45:15) Financial forecasting and business responsibilities (55:00) Financial visibility, the power of a three-statement model (1:06:00) CEO responsibilities and future planning, competing with cheaper dresses (1:12:31) Business ownership and financial planning, delegating and hiring, building a team to scale (1:23:00) Final takeaways, the reality of entrepreneurial growth, Jimmy’s goals, business as a tool, not a trap, financial education and empowerment Rate, comment and share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transfo...
1/16/25 • 100:22
Many business owners struggle to connect their financials to actionable insights and ownership goals. In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Tracy Bech—founder of the 60-Minute CFO and creator of a financial forecasting system that simplifies the three-statement model—to break down the 14 Ownership KPIs that every owner-operator needs to master. Together, we explore how understanding these metrics can transform decision-making, align operations with ownership goals, and empower business owners to scale sustainably while maintaining control over their financial destiny.Watch on YouTube Tracy explains why free cash flow is the ultimate metric for any business and how tying income, balance sheet, and cash flow statements into a unified model creates a clear roadmap for growth. We dive into real-world examples, practical strategies, and the mindset shifts needed to move from financial confusion to clarity, providing listeners with the tools they need to transition confidently into a true ownership role. This conversation highlights the importance of tying financial metrics to ownership goals while maintaining simplicity, offering owner-operators a clear path to operational and financial excellence. By focusing on the 14 Ownership KPIs, owners can make informed decisions, delegate effectively, and achieve long-term success. Tracy Bech is the founder of the 60-Minute CFO, a financial expert, and a business owner who has transitioned from services-based entrepreneurship to mastering the complexities of inventory-driven e-commerce. Her experience inspired her to create tools and systems that simplify financial management for owner-operators. Tracy’s approach is rooted in the belief that clarity and simplicity empower business owners to align their financial decisions with their long-term goals. Her methodologies are practical, accessible, and transformative for anyone seeking to connect financial insights to ownership success. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction: simplifying financials for owner-operators (06:00) The three-statement model: income, balance sheet, and cash flow (12:00) Why free cash flow matters more than revenue, balancing receivables and payables (18:30) Breaking down the 14 ownership KPIs (25:00) Real-world applications: aligning metrics with decisions (28:23) Operational cash flow strategies (33:00) Tracy’s framework: the 60-minute CFO process (48:30) Key financial metrics to monitor, scaling growth while maintaining financial control, understanding profit margins (55:00) Terms, tools and resources for financial clarity (1:07:15) Key metrics and KPIs (1:18:43) Optimizing cash flow and inventory (1:24:10) Navigating...
1/9/25 • 127:35
Many business owners wrestle with understanding the CEO’s role and its connection to ownership. In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Joel Trammell—a seasoned entrepreneur who has grown and sold two companies to nine-figure exits—to break down what a CEO truly does, how the role aligns with ownership, and how owners can transition out of day-to-day operations. We explore the strategies and frameworks that enable owner-operators to scale their businesses, delegate effectively, and step fully into their ownership role by managing a CEO with confidence.Watch on YouTube Joel explains how most businesses grow to the point where almost every decision flows upward to them (the CEO), creating bottlenecks and inefficiency. He shares how to flip this dynamic by pushing decision-making downward through clear ownership goals and operational alignment. This conversation highlights how critical it is for owner-operators to shift into an ownership role where they can effectively manage the CEO and delegate responsibilities. By clarifying the CEO’s job and implementing a framework for accountability, owners can step out of operations without their business falling apart, reducing anxiety while setting up their organization for sustainable growth. Joel Trammell is a seasoned CEO, entrepreneur, and educator with a passion for helping business leaders master the art and science of the CEO role. Having built two companies to nine-figure exits, Joel now dedicates his time to coaching, writing, and teaching through his CEO Bootcamp and his platform, Managing the Future. His approach combines practical systems with first-principle thinking, empowering leaders to align their teams, set strategic objectives, and achieve long-term success. Joel’s work is a must for any owner looking to step back or scale their business sustainably. Chapters: (00:00) Intro - Check out Independence by Design™ videos, now on Spotify in addition to YouTube (2:00) Revisiting Joel’s framework: A CEO’s job is managing the future, avoiding daily tasks for effective future planning, transitioning from owner-operator to strategic CEO is crucial (10:20) Aligning ownership goals and CEO expectations (14:00) Balancing stakeholders: consistent value for customers, employees, and shareholders, case study on Boeing (17:25) Aligning company mission and strategic objectives is essential. Financial metrics should not overshadow employee and customer satisfaction, building clarity in vision and accountability (28:56) Adopting future-focused strategy monitoring techniques, clear goal-setting and expectations, setting quarterly and strategic goals, teams other than just sales should provide future-oriented insights using simple assessment scales (33:00) Hiring the right CEO, success in previous roles doesn't guarantee effective CEO leadership, CEO failure rates, curiosity and broad interest over industry expertise (41:11) CEO psychology: delegating without guilt, traditio...
1/2/25 • 65:10
If you’ve ever read Profit First or The Pumpkin Plan, you know Mike Michalowicz delivers game-changing ideas for entrepreneurs. In this episode, we dive into his newest book, All In, and talk about the systems, frameworks, and mindset shifts you need to build a business that thrives—with or without you in the room. Watch on YouTube Mike and I tackle the biggest concerns owner-operators face: Cash flow chaos: Why Profit First still works and how to implement it to create financial discipline. Hiring the right people: How to find and develop A-players by focusing on potential over experience. Feeling stuck as the operator: The key steps to embed your culture, systems, and vision so your team can execute and scale without you micromanaging. Mike’s insights, rooted in behavioral psychology, provide a clear path to solving these challenges, showing you how small, consistent wins add up to big results. By tying these ideas into the Independence by Design™ framework, this episode will help you: Regain control of your finances with tools like Profit First. Build a team that thrives—so you don’t have to micromanage. Systematize your business so you can focus on strategy and freedom. If you’re ready to stop running on the hamster wheel and go all in on building a business that delivers cash flow, equity growth, and independence, this conversation will show you the way. Mike Michalowicz is the creator of Profit First, Clockwork, and the author of 9 books, including his latest, All In. By age 35, he built and sold two multi-million-dollar companies, only to lose his fortune and start over. Now, Mike is devoted to helping entrepreneurs build healthy, strong companies through practical strategies. A keynote speaker and former Wall Street Journal columnist, Mike’s work has helped hundreds of thousands of businesses worldwide thrive. Chapters: (00:00) Intro - Mike Michalowicz introduces the Dumbo model for business success (08:51) Curiosity transforms weaknesses into strengths through education (14:15) Innovative hiring beyond traditional resumes and interviews, Home Depot's practical assessments redefine talent evaluation criteria, events as tools to attract top talent (20:09) Personal operating manuals for workplace dynamics, role of AI in identifying hidden talent in recruitment (32:42) Resurgence of human connection in business practices, valuing people over profits with conscious capitalism (41:15) Leaders that ‘care gently’ for their team’s personal issues benefits business productivity, importance of regular communication in leadership (51:34) Overcoming entrepreneurial struggles and finding purpose, eradicating poverty, engaging with diverse audiences through speaking events Rate, comment and share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners...
12/26/24 • 58:15
If you’ve ever wondered how to protect and scale your company’s culture while cutting down on friction, drama, and the “execution gaps” that keep you stuck in the weeds, this episode is for you. I sit down with Bill Mills, founder of The Leadership Process, to dive into the strategies that help owner-operators like you align your team, systematize your culture, and build a business that thrives—whether you’re in the room or not. Watch on YouTube Bill’s framework isn’t about abstract leadership theories or corporate buzzwords. It’s about practical systems that close the execution gap, reduce chaos, and embed your vision into the day-to-day habits and processes of your business. By systematizing the culture and values that make your company unique, Bill shows you how to make them scalable and sustainable. His approach ties perfectly into the Independence by Design™ framework, giving you the tools to create a business that delivers results while freeing you to step back with confidence. In this episode, we explore how to reduce the execution gap, build a high-performing team, and ensure the DNA of your culture is preserved—no matter your level of involvement. If you’re ready to move from operator to true owner without losing what makes your company special, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. Bill Mills is the founder of The Leadership Process™ and a CEO Peer Group owner for over three decades, facilitating over 1300 peer groups. His process-driven approach has helped organizations of all sizes—from manufacturing firms to service providers—turn chaotic teams into aligned, high-performing units. Bill is passionate about solving the leadership and execution gaps that hinder business growth, offering practical solutions that stick. Chapters: (00:00) Intro - Bill Mills background and expertise (05:30) The execution gap: what it is and how to solve it (11:50) Addressing leadership gaps for effective management, shifting from theory to action (22:00) Exploring leadership with Viktor Frankl's philosophy, aligning teams for optimal organizational health (31:40) Taking a page from the military, building high performance teams, navigating expectations and responsibilities, clarifying roles to improve communication and responsibility (40:00) How to introduce leadership processes in your business, commitment and professionalism in team dynamics (51:27) Large-scale cultural change events, effective delegation and communication processes (58:16) Cross-functional learning cohorts break down organizational silos, removing interference through leadership development (1:10:40) Structured learning models drive company culture transformation, a case study: transforming an ESOP company, the role of ownership in driving organizational change (1:22:40) Designing sustainable leadership habits, encouraging independence with feedback systems, tyranny vs. sovereignty, the nuts and bolts of The Leadership Process (1:35:21) Advice for owner-operators looking to scale sustainably Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom
12/19/24 • 95:55
What happens when the business you thought would set you free starts to feel like a prison? In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Jean Moncreiff, a seasoned entrepreneur turned coach, to unpack the hard lessons he learned scaling businesses, juggling cash flow nightmares, and realizing he was building a job, not independence. Watch on YouTube Jean’s story is packed with insights for owner-operators who feel stuck in the daily grind, questioning if all the hustle is worth it. We dive into his pivotal realization that revenue growth alone doesn’t create freedom and why being intentional with your ownership goals is the key to creating a business—and a life—that serves you. Jean also shares how he learned to tie together strategy, cash flow, and leadership to escape the operational chaos and focus on building sustainable value. If you’ve ever wondered how to stop being owned by your business and start owning it, this episode is for you. Jean Moncrieff is an entrepreneur, coach, and advocate for intentional independence. With over 20 years of experience scaling businesses and navigating growth challenges, Jean now helps business owners align their operations with personal and financial goals. As a certified Metronomics coach, he empowers leaders to build sustainable, purpose-driven companies that provide freedom and independence. Chapters: (00:00) Intro - Jean’s path from apartheid to independence as an entrepreneur (10:15) Challenges of rapid business expansion, mistakes and complexities in business growth, partner conflicts in business (14:00) The turning point: realizing revenue ≠ freedom, building business growth and independence (21:00) Building systems for cash flow and value creation, intentional and independent growth, balancing short-term gains with long-term asset building (28:00) Complexities of managing a business amid financial pressures and ethical dilemmas, a strategic shift towards improving business structure and leadership, cash flow and ethical dilemmas (39:26) Learning from business mistakes and resilience, overcoming setbacks and the importance of persistence, balancing profit and freedom (46:15) Advice for owners: how to be intentional about independence, understanding entrepreneurial vision and growth, rethinking entrepreneurial goals and personal intentions, aligning business growth with personal lifestyle desires (50:39) Exploring strategic business growth methodologies, adapting new frameworks for rapid business transformation, choosing business methodologies for effective growth, evaluating Metronomics over EOS for strategic success (1:02:04) Exploring growth through partnerships, importance of partnerships and collaboration, building purpose-driven companies through meaningful connections, leveraging AI and collaboration for business success, redefining relationships and collaboration in the digital era (1:07:13) Decoupling income and strategic business growth, balancing operational roles with financial objectives Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom
12/12/24 • 68:27
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Walker Deibel, author of Buy Then Build and founder of Acquisition Lab, to uncover the strategies that turn owner-operators into true business owners. Walker shares his expertise on how to use acquisitions to build wealth and create independence by aligning your business with your long-term personal goals. Watch on YouTube We explore why the private market offers massive opportunities for those who understand the game and how owner-operators can shift from being stuck in day-to-day operations to thinking like strategic capital allocators. This conversation dives into the actionable steps required to professionalize ownership, understand market valuations, and create options—whether you’re preparing for a sale or just looking to unlock more time and freedom. If you’re ready to elevate your ownership game and align your business strategy with long-term independence, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Walker Deibel is a best-selling author, entrepreneur, and founder of the Acquisition Lab. A pioneer in the SMB acquisition space, Walker has acquired seven companies and advised on over 100 deals. His work focuses on empowering entrepreneurs to use acquisitions as a vehicle for wealth creation and independence. Chapters: (00:00) Intro - religious studies in college, ownership in wealth creation (18:30) Investing in middle market deals, middle market opportunities: a hidden gem for owners (28:45) Expanding investment opportunities through syndication, diversifying investments for risk management (33:20) Structuring deals for buyers and sellers, aligning capital allocation with your personal vision (40:00) Business acquisition entrepreneurship decision-making (54:00) Turning your business into a scalable asset (1:01:20) The demographic cliff, impact of baby boomer retirements on private companies (1:03:24) Challenges and opportunities in small business transactions. (1:14:23) Navigating business acquisitions and challenges (1:22:32) Engaging in private equity and entrepreneurship, embracing challenges in sharing private equity insights (1:26:26) Importance of financial models in attracting investments (1:36:16) Reinvesting and planning for enhanced business growth Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by owner-operators, Ryan developed Independence by Design™ to empower...
12/5/24 • 97:32
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Marcel Petitpas, a visionary in operational clarity and profitability for professional services. Marcel's journey as the CEO of Parakeeto has been marked by solving one of the most complex puzzles in professional services—mastering profitability through operational data. We explore his personal story, dive deep into the challenges of scaling service businesses, and uncover practical insights that any owner-operator can use to create scalable, profitable growth. Watch on YouTube Marcel shares actionable frameworks for understanding and improving delivery margins, aligning operations and finance, and transitioning from operator to strategic leader. Whether you’re stuck in the weeds of your agency or looking to build a business that works for you, not the other way around, Marcel’s insights will give you the clarity and tools to design independence and unlock sustainable cash flow. Marcel Petitpas is the CEO and Co-Founder of Parakeeto, a software and consulting firm that helps agencies and professional services firms improve their profitability. With a passion for financial clarity and operational excellence, Marcel has worked with businesses around the globe to align their operations and finance for sustainable growth. As the host of the Agency Profit Podcast, Marcel shares his insights with thousands of listeners every month, making him a trusted thought leader in the professional services space. Chapters: (00:00) Intro - Marcel Petitpas’ journey (05:30) Scaling professional services firms, transitioning from traditional to outcome-based service models, profitability killers (15:00) Tackling financial puzzles in service-based business models, how to identify and fix utilization problems (22:33) Aligning operations and finance for success, ensuring company-wide alignment on KPI's, metrics and business models (31:00) Business model and forecasting for success, utilizing plans and data for business performance insights, shared delivery expenses (43:11) Evaluating pricing models based on client value and risk, understanding delivery margin for profitability, choosing the right pricing model in the pricing quadrant (0:54:11) Evolving professional service pricing models, adapting pricing strategies for evolving project requirements, sprints and deliverables, transitioning from time and materials to defined pricing models (01:02:00) Capacity forecasts and staffing alignment, balancing staffing with project demands for profitability (01:07:00) Marcel’s vision for the future of Parakeeto, professional services, and planned books, final thoughts Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with...
11/28/24 • 82:29
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I have a fascinating discussion with Brandon Henry, who works closely with billionaires and ultra-high-net-worth families as part of a family office. This conversation is invaluable for owner-operators running middle-market companies, offering a glimpse into the world of sophisticated wealth management and how even the wealthiest families are navigating challenges. Brandon's insights highlight that you don’t need to have everything figured out right away, and that even those at the top are still trying to professionalize ownership and create strategic options. Watch on YouTube We explore how these ultra-wealthy families wrestle with decisions that are just as complex as those faced by smaller businesses and why professionalizing ownership isn't just for billionaires. Brandon shares the key differences between financial capital (like tax, legal, and investment strategies) and family capital (managing dynamics and decision-making), and how the best families learn to separate operating the business from owning the asset. This episode provides practical takeaways on how to think about your business as a strategic asset, improve your decision-making, and create optionality for your future. Brandon Henry is a seasoned wealth advisor and governance strategist specializing in helping ultra-high-net-worth families and first-generation entrepreneurs master the complexities of family business, estate planning, and capital allocation. With a deep understanding of financial capital and family dynamics, Brandon works at the intersection of ownership strategy and wealth management to help families achieve generational independence. Chapters: (00:00) Intro of guest Brandon Henry (07:10) Financial Capital vs. Family Capital (12:45) Why Professionalizing Ownership Is Crucial, Maximizing Options for Family Ownership, Family Office Complexity (20:05) Understanding Financial Statements and Ownership Framework (26:14) Improving Decision Making With Three Statements, Aligning Business and Family Goals (32:15) Valuations, Estate Planning & Taxes, and Understanding Risk, Wealth Building Through Risk Management (46:19) Navigating Ownership and Succession Planning (57:44) Mapping Family Ownership Strategy, Entrepreneurial Parents and Future Opportunities (1:00:00) Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by owner-operators, Ryan developed Independence by Design™ to empower owner-operators to create sustainable cash flow, grow their company’s equity value, and achieve true independence. He has shared his insights on hundreds of stages, including Vistage, EO, and indu...
11/21/24 • 69:37
In this episode, I sit down with Tom Walker, a financial strategist who’s all about connecting the big picture to the details—uncovering hidden constraints, planning for the unexpected, and transforming companies into resilient, wealth-generating assets. Tom brings a no-nonsense approach to planning, not to predict every outcome, but to create a framework that withstands the inevitable punches every business faces. Watch on YouTube We center our conversation around what it truly means to own a business that provides cash flow and equity growth, giving you the ability to make smart, clear-headed decisions regardless of market conditions. We also dive into why so many business owners get frustrated with planning, often getting tangled up in short-term thinking and daily pressures that can cloud their vision. Together, Tom and I break down the steps to building independence, including a close look at using your business as a tool for long-term wealth that doesn’t rely solely on your labor. It’s about decoupling your time from cash flow, creating a business that serves you—giving you control and flexibility, rather than the other way around. Tom Walker is a financial and economic advisor with decades of experience across agriculture, manufacturing, and family businesses, Tom specializes in helping owners move beyond the day-to-day grind to see the big picture. His approach combines strategic planning, cash flow management, and a passion for teaching others how to protect their independence. Tom’s clients value his no-nonsense perspective on what it takes to survive—and thrive—in an unpredictable economy. Chapters: (00:00) Intro of guest Tom Walker, discussing the need for strategic planning in business, preparedness vs. prediction (09:59) Navigating market conditions in agriculture and manufacturing, understanding constraints and building a better base case, the impact of economic changes on large-scale farms (17:00) Ownership thinking, cash flow, finding safe harbor as a business owner, outgrowing the “money printer” and protection against inflation (25:00) Creating flexible frameworks to handle economic volatility, aligning your vision and team with a long-term playbook (31:17) ‘Tail hedge’ mentality and asset valuations, using financial data to pivot when things go sideways (39:15) Cash flow and financial trickery, surviving industry volatility, importance of working capital (46:39) Discipline and financial planning, long-term planning compared to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, core principles of capitalism, sustainable cash flow and return on asset value (52:00) Ryan’s family business history, experiences with the banking sector (58:41) Evaluating business strategies and cycles in manufacturing, farming, etc. (1:05:00) Closing thoughts, looking at the future, the game of capitalism Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons...
11/14/24 • 67:52
Demystify what it means to prepare for a third-party sale and how an investment banker can be a game-changer in that process. For owners weighing their exit options, Adam shares insights on how to gauge your business’s market value from a third-party buyer’s perspective—highlighting what you need to know about valuations, strategic buyer selection, and why timing is key. Watch on YouTube We dive into the importance of building a relationship with an investment banker early, giving you a view of the market and your potential valuation while still focused on growth. Adam discusses the specific criteria buyers consider, how to differentiate between passive and active sales strategies, and why choosing the right intermediary can make or break your outcome. He explains how curated buyer lists, customized marketing materials, and understanding cash flow quality all play crucial roles in positioning your business for maximum value. If you’re ready to think strategically about a potential third-party sale—whether that’s next year or five years down the line—this episode will guide you through the details of market preparation, partner selection, and the steps that ensure your hard-earned business value is fully recognized. Adam Webb is a Partner at Quazar Capital Corporation, an investment bank specializing in M&A advisory for middle-market businesses. With years of experience and completing over 60 transactions, he helps business owners maximize their exit value selling to third-party buyers (PE Firms and Strategics). Adam has a reputation for bringing a strategic, data-driven approach to the complex M&A landscape. His insights on valuation, timing, and market positioning make him a sought-after advisor for business owners ready to take control of their futures. Chapters: (00:00) Intro to Adam Webb and Quazar, insights into middle market mergers and acquisitions (10:16) Active vs passive buyer sourcing techniques, comparing listing sites with active marketing strategies (18:51) Complexities of deal structuring, buyer-seller expectations and deal structures (30:00) Importance of storytelling in business transactions, proving business value through effective storytelling (40:40) Strategic financial planning for businesses, aligning financial plans with strategic business goals (44:45) Timing considerations for selling a business, analyzing market conditions and personal goals for sales, managing post-sale expectations with different buyer types (53:28) Retirement challenges for baby boomer business owners, addressing realistic business valuations for retirement (1:03:30) Conducting regular financial reviews, importance of regular PE-style financial evaluations, EOS planning meetings (1:09:53) Private equity investment strategies, differences in platform and add-on investment approaches (1:23:24) Closing thoughts, get in touch with Adam Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the less...
11/7/24 • 85:44
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Gary Kusin—an entrepreneur who built some of the most recognizable brands in the world, including GameStop and Kinko’s. Gary's incredible journey, from starting Babbage’s (which became GameStop) to leading Kinko’s to a billion-dollar sale to FedEx, is packed with lessons on scaling businesses, transitioning leadership, and maintaining company culture. Watch on YouTube We explore Gary's principles of leadership, his approach to mentorship, and how he helped align operations with the ownership's goals to achieve long-term value creation. Gary dives into how he balanced entrepreneurship with large-scale corporate leadership, shares why empathy and open communication are critical, and talks about the transition from founder-led businesses to strategic ownership. If you're a business owner or operator who feels stuck in the weeds of day-to-day operations, this conversation will give you actionable steps to begin your own transformation. Gary’s experience aligns perfectly with the Independence by Design™ Framework, showing how owners can scale their businesses, create sustainable cash flow, and build a legacy without being trapped by the daily grind. Gary Kusin is a serial entrepreneur and business leader, best known for co-founding GameStop and leading Kinko's through a massive growth phase before its acquisition by FedEx. Over his career, Gary has built and scaled multiple companies, mentored countless leaders, and distilled his insights into six core leadership principles that have guided his success. His upcoming book, Always Learning, is a deep dive into the lessons he’s learned on building businesses and developing teams that thrive. Chapters: (00:00) Gary Kusin shares his leadership principles and mentoring approach, his journey from Texarkana to GameStop (05:39) Harvard Business School, unexpected career path, co-founding GameStop (13:00) Early days of GameStop, educating customers about video games, loyal fanbase, Wall Street challenges, maintaining relationships (19:00) Leadership's role in implementing a strategic turnaround, prioritizing trust, transparency, and open communication, leading to increased profitability and engagement (22:00) Building Team Culture: The importance of team buy-in, autonomy, and why "command and control" doesn’t work in every business, importance of empathy and communication for long-term success. (35:00) Thoughts on nurturing future leaders and creating a culture of ownership, Transformative leadership journey, hands-on management, high aspirations, hiring leaders with CEO potential, inclusive company culture, open communication, trust, recognizing diversity and privilege. (45:00) Foundational principles, clear communication, and empathy are crucial for a healthy work environment and team dynamics. (54:54) Transformative journey of navigating toxic workplaces, lessons from mentors, fostering supportive cultures, and making tough decisions with transparency and accountability. (1:06:00) Final Thoughts: Gary's advice for owners who want to scale and create lasting value without losing their identity. Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founde...
10/31/24 • 69:12
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Shiv Narayanan, founder of How to SaaS, to uncover the core strategies behind scaling a business through strategic marketing and revenue predictability. Shiv’s deep experience in the private equity space and his work with founder-led companies offers actionable insights for owners looking to make their businesses more attractive to investors—or simply run them more profitably with greater financial predictability. Watch on YouTube Shiv and I explore how aligning marketing, sales, and operations with clear, measurable KPIs can transform not only your company’s growth trajectory but also your journey from being an operator to becoming a strategic owner. We dive into how you can productize your offering, create sustainable cash flow, and maximize your company's equity value—all crucial elements of the Independence by Design™ Framework. Shiv Narayanan is the Founder and CEO of How To SaaS, a marketing strategy consulting firm specializing in helping Private Equity investors and B2B companies maximize enterprise value. As an advisor, consultant, and fractional CMO, he has generated hundreds of millions in value through innovative marketing and demand generation strategies. A two-time bestselling author, Shiv's books—*Post-Acquisition Marketing* and *Exit-Ready Marketing*—offer frameworks for PE investors and founders to enhance growth and valuation. Previously, he served as CMO of Wild Apricot, which was successfully acquired in 2018. Chapters: (0:00:00) Introduction of Shiv Narayanan, insights on marketing strategies for PE firms (0:10:54) Transitioning from owner-operator to prioritizing ownership duties (0:14:11) Importance of building predictable revenue streams for success (0:27:35) Developing strategic plans to acquire customers in PE context (0:36:36) Entrepreneurs need financial literacy, strategic thinking, and unique value propositions to succeed in business (0:47:04) Organizational clarity, strategic resource allocation, and revenue predictability are crucial for business success and potential acquisition (0:53:00) Shiv's book Exit Ready Marketing is a good place to start Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by owner-operators, Ryan developed Independence by Design™ to empower owner-operators to create sustainable cash flow, grow their company’s equity value, and achieve true independence. He has shared his insights on hundreds of stages, including Vistage, EO, and industry associations, and has reached over 500,000 listeners through his podcast. Ryan is passionate about helping business owners get unstuck from the day-to-day grind and design a business that serves their life, not the other way around....
10/24/24 • 58:21
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with pricing expert Casey Brown, founder of Boost Pricing, to dig deep into one of the biggest pain points for business owners: pricing. Casey breaks down the psychological barriers that often keep us stuck—mainly fear—and shows how we can shift from defensive pricing to a confident, value-driven strategy. We talk about how to approach price objections, avoid unnecessary discounts, and make sure we’re getting paid what we’re worth. Watch on YouTubeCasey also shares practical insights on how professional services businesses can move away from hourly billing and adopt value-based subscription models. Whether you’re struggling with price pushback, want to increase your margins, or need to gain the confidence to raise your rates, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways to help you master pricing and boost your bottom line. Casey Brown is a pricing expert and founder of Boost Pricing. With over 25 years of experience, she has helped thousands of businesses increase their profitability through smarter pricing strategies. Her focus is on empowering leaders to price confidently and capture the full value of their services. Casey is a sought-after speaker and consultant who has worked with organizations across many industries to help them stop leaving money on the table. Chapters: (00:00) – Introduction and Casey’s background, the art and science of pricing, emphasizing mindset and setting clear goals for business success (04:06) – The psychology behind pricing: fear vs. confidence (12:17) – Understanding market value and data-driven pricing strategies are crucial for businesses to find their pricing ceiling and manage risk (17:09) – Value-based pricing for professional services: shifting from hourly billing to subscription models (28:00) – Trust and value are key in differentiating service providers, achieved through consultative selling, education, and effective communication (41:00) – Simplifying pricing strategy and options, perceived value, clear messaging, predefined packages, balancing knowledge and execution, speed in proposals, and repeatable pricing framework (50:56) – Negotiating discounts and pricing strategy, cautious approach to discounts, understanding contribution margin, leveraging customer pushback for dialogue (59:00) – Trust, pricing strategies, and timing of adjustments are crucial in business operations and understanding underpricing's true cost (1:09:00) – The Sherman Act, understanding financial metrics and fair pricing is crucial for companies to avoid legal issues and build trust with customers (1:14:00) – Mapping pricing power, negotiation tactics and mindset change for financial success, pricing power empowers sales teams (01:24:00) – Final Thoughts: Valuing and compensating excellent work, demanding fair prices, and appreciating high-quality work are important for justice Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade...
10/17/24 • 84:57
In this special Quarterly Economic and M&A Update, I’ve pulled together three powerful conversations to help you, the owner-operator, navigate the current economic landscape and make smarter decisions for your business. We’ll start with Brian Beaulieu from ITR Economics, who provides a detailed breakdown of inflation, interest rates, and how the economy might shift in 2025. Then, Jeff Buettner from ButcherJoseph shares critical insights into M&A trends, offering practical advice on how to position your business for growth through strategic acquisitions. Finally, I wrap up with Tom Walker, where we discuss how to manage capital effectively, handle debt, and plan for long-term wealth creation in today’s complex financial environment. Watch on YouTubeIf you’re focused on growing your business while staying ahead of economic challenges, this episode gives you actionable strategies to think and operate like a capital allocator. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction - A quick overview of what to expect from this quarterly update and why it's critical for owner-operators right now (02:05) - Segment 1: Economic Forecast with Brian Beaulieu (ITR Economics), Inflation isn’t going away soon, but understanding the trends helps you prepare (08:32) - Don’t wait for interest rate cuts—start positioning your business today - 2025 offers growth potential if you’re prepared to act when the market turns (12:23) - Financial resiliency analysis - financial forecasting and business strategy (23:34) - Owner-operators in Ryan’s workshops (25:00) - Don’t expect the government to help you in the next political cycle Business leadership and future planning Economic trends and market activity (28:00) - Segment 2: M&A Trends with Jeff Buettner (ButcherJoseph), watching the Fed and their moves (33:00) - Rising interest rates are a challenge, but they’re also slowing down your competition—use that to your advantage, asset-heavy industries are seeing more deal flow, so positioning your company for growth through M&A is critical (37:00) - Flexible Deal Structures for Business Owners - Strategic buyers are on the hunt—find out how to make your business attractive for acquisition (41:00) - Acquisition strategies for business owners, positioning your company for the future, strategic business valuation and planning (52:39) - ESOPs and personal guarantees (55:40) - Assess whether your business is ready for a strategic acquisition or if you should be on the lookout for options to increase value (1:11:36) - Segment 3: Strategic Capital Allocation with “fractional CFO” Tom Walker of Walker Insights (1:14:00) - Navigating financial uncertainty, oversimplifying, low interest rates foster bad decisions (1:20:02) - Farmland data, investment trends and challenges, renting farmland (1:25:21) - How will we return to “normalcy”? Potential debt defaults, navigating economic uncertainty in agriculture (1:34:00) - What to watch in the economy
10/10/24 • 100:24
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Tracy Bech, a seasoned entrepreneur who has successfully navigated running multiple companies with vastly different business models. From her first services-based business with high margins to her second venture, an inventory-based e-commerce company with a completely different cash flow model, Tracy shares her journey and the hard-earned lessons about understanding the numbers behind the business. Watch on YouTubeHer experience in these contrasting industries inspired her to create 60-Minute CFO, a tool designed to help business owners truly grasp their financials, which is crucial for valuation, cash flow predictability, and ownership success. Tracy’s passion for connecting operations, numbers, and long-term ownership goals makes this episode a must-listen for entrepreneurs wanting to move from day-to-day management to designing a scalable, financially stable business. We dove into how Tracy’s deep understanding of cash flow and metrics allowed her to build systems supporting operational and ownership independence. We dive into the key steps Matt took to delegate operations, build systems, and free himself from the daily grind, ultimately allowing him to focus on long-term strategy and investing in multiple companies through his holding company, Eidolon Capital. This episode provides a clear path for business owners ready to make the transition from operator to owner, focusing on how to unlock sustainable cash flow, build equity, and design real independence—what I call the Independence by Design™ ownership mindset. Tracy Bech is a serial entrepreneur, having started, run, and sold 2 successful businesses. She is passionate about lowering the business failure rate by educating business owners and leaders about best practices and business strategy. She is also CEO at Starboard Collectives, where she facilitates groups of CEOs in niche industries. The groups share financial analyses, best practices and focus on business development. Tracy is a nationally recognized speaker on the topic of small business finance, and also conducts a women in business group in Hood River, Oregon, where she calls home. When not analyzing business ratios, Tracy is likely found on or near the water, dirt or snow, enjoying the great outdoors on boats, bikes or skis. Chapters: (00:00) – Tracy Bech’s Entrepreneurial Journey Across Multiple Industries - Skiing, windsurfing, Nike, SwissArmy, and more (11:00) – Creating And Maintaining Websites Early On, Transitioning To An E-Commerce Business With An Inventory-Based Model (29:00) – Cash Flow Challenges and Differences Between Business Models (32:38) – E-commerce Business challenges, Selling the Web Company- Tracy’s First Exit (39:00) – Agency Implosion, Changing the Game (42:37) – Why Understanding Cash Flow is Critical for Business Valuation and Ownership, Advice for Entrepreneurs on Navigating Multiple Business Models, Creating a Business That Aligns With Personal and Ownership Goals (49:00) – Peer Groups, Connecting Operations to Financial Goals: Tracy’s Formula for Success
10/3/24 • 95:28
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Matt Bodnar to explore what it truly means to be an owner versus an operator. Matt’s journey—from being deeply entrenched in the day-to-day operations of his IT firm to becoming a strategic investor and capital allocator—perfectly illustrates the shift in mindset necessary to move from "doing" to "owning." Starting out by handling every detail, Matt gradually worked his way out of the operator role and learned how to structure his company to run without him. Watch on YouTube We dive into the key steps Matt took to delegate operations, build systems, and free himself from the daily grind, ultimately allowing him to focus on long-term strategy and investing in multiple companies through his holding company, Eidolon Capital. This episode provides a clear path for business owners ready to make the transition from operator to owner, focusing on how to unlock sustainable cash flow, build equity, and design real independence—what I call the Independence by Design™ ownership mindset. Matthew Bodnar is the Founding Partner at Eidolon Capital. As a “Forbes 30 Under 30” alumni and partner in multiple “Inc Fastest Growing Companies,” Matt is a private equity sponsor who has scaled businesses across multiple industries. He is the major investor and Chairman of Ozark River Manufacturing, ProRack Systems, Fresh Technology, Inc and Highland Industrial Staffing. He is also the Creator and Host of The Science of Success Podcast with more than 5mm downloads. Bodnar previously worked as a consultant in Nanjing, China and spent several years at Goldman Sachs in New York.[Text Wrapping Break] Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Background - Matt Bodnar (02:30) The Struggles of Being an Operator: Matt’s Early Days (07:45) The Turning Point: Transitioning from Operator to Owner (13:07) Life Purpose and What Drives Matt, Influential Books (17:30) Everything is Connected, Navigating Reality (25:31) Being ‘Roughly Right’ and Examining Operations (28:49) The Owner’s Mindset: How Matt Changed His Approach (30:53) Delegating and Building a Leadership Team (37:45) Case Studies and Real Life Examples (48:00) Statistics on U.S. Businesses, Employment, and Revenue Levels (51:57) Advice for Owners on Shifting to a Capital Allocator Mindset (54:00) Buying Companies and Investment Criteria, ‘Baking the Perfect Deal’ (1:00:03) Empowering Company Teams, Distributing Equity (1:01:00) Closing Thoughts, Subscribe to Matt’s Newsletter Share with the owner/operators you know! Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals....
9/26/24 • 64:59
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Ken Sanginario, a top turnaround and valuation expert and creator of the Value Opportunity Profile, to dive deep into the fundamental drivers behind business valuations. We explore how the multiple in a business valuation is directly tied to the sustainability, predictability, and transferability of your cash flow—and why understanding this is the key to more than doubling the value of your company. Watch on YouTube Throughout our conversation, we unpack the often-overlooked details that can either make or break your company’s financial future. Ken breaks down critical concepts like the cost of equity, the buildup methodology, deal structures, and how reducing risk plays a major role in increasing your enterprise value. By looking at valuation from both the owner’s and buyer’s perspectives, we provide a comprehensive understanding of what truly drives value and where the multiple comes from. One of the most important takeaways is that this entire process is within your control: by reducing risk and improving operational quality, you can take actionable steps to increase the multiple applied to your business’s cash flow, doubling the value of your business giving you more freedom and options. We also explore how making your cash flow more predictable can significantly enhance your company’s potential for reinvestment, growth, or future opportunities. Additionally, Ken and I discuss the challenges of business ownership, the complexities of scaling, and how you can strategically grow your company's value. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear roadmap for taking control of your business’s financial future, with practical insights on how to create sustainable growth through the derisking process. Brandon Hall is the founder of BGH Valuation Services, LLC, is a seasoned valuation expert with over 2,000 business valuations under his belt. Based in Saint Michael, MN, Brandon holds a B.S. in Accounting from Saint Cloud State University and has extensive experience from his roles at Polaris Industries and Best Buy Corporate. A Certified Valuation Analyst® and Certified Machinery & Equipment Appraiser, Brandon is dedicated to helping businesses understand and maximize their value.[Text Wrapping Break] Chapters: (00:00) – Introduction and Background - Ken Sanginario (08:00) – Why Business Owners Must Focus on Cash Flow Valuation (15:00) – How Your Cash Flow Increases the Multiple (19:30) – Breaking Down the Buildup Methodology (27:00) – Strategies to Grow the Enterprise Value of Your Business, Reducing Risk (35:00) – Cost of Capital, Understanding the Role of Debt in Business Growth (48:00) – Equity Risk Premiums (54:00) – Quality vs. Value and the Multiple, Pension Funding through Private Equity (59:00) – Cost of Debt (1:11:30) – Understanding Company Valuation Metrics (1:17:00) – DISC for Business, 8 Primary Functional Categories in a Company (1:29:08) - Strategic Ownership Accelerator Discussion Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker,...
9/19/24 • 97:42
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Brandon Hall, an expert who has conducted over 1,500 business valuations across a wide range of industries. We dive deep into the importance of understanding and controlling the value of your business. Brandon shares his journey from a corporate accountant to a trusted advisor in the valuation space, reflecting on the lessons he’s learned from his extensive experience, especially in working with small to medium-sized businesses. Watch on YouTube We break down the three primary valuation methods: income-based valuations (with a focus on cash flow), asset-based valuations (looking at tangible assets), and market-based valuations (comparing similar businesses in the market). I place particular emphasis on cash flow valuations, which are the most actionable and controllable by business owners like you. We discuss why understanding and managing your cash flow is crucial—not just for keeping the lights on but for driving long-term growth, strategic planning, and maximizing the equity value of your business. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of how to take charge of your business’s valuation, why cash flow is such a critical metric, and how you can use it to make informed decisions that will help you achieve the independence you’re striving for. Brandon Hall is the founder of BGH Valuation Services, LLC, is a seasoned valuation expert with over 2,000 business valuations under his belt. Based in Saint Michael, MN, Brandon holds a B.S. in Accounting from Saint Cloud State University and has extensive experience from his roles at Polaris Industries and Best Buy Corporate. A Certified Valuation Analyst® and Certified Machinery & Equipment Appraiser, Brandon is dedicated to helping businesses understand and maximize their value. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Background - Journey from Corporate Accounting to Business Valuation (06:00) The Importance of SBA Valuations in Business Transactions (10:45) Understanding Cash Flow Risk in Business Valuations (17:20) Mapping Out Ten Year Loans, Common Misconceptions About Business Valuations (21:24) Strategic Considerations for Business Owners: Equity and Cash Flow (29:13) Real-Life Examples of Business Valuation Challenges (35:20) The Role of the Government and Banks in SBA Loans (40:00) Assets and Proactively Managing Your Business’s Value (47:00) The Cash Conversion Cycle, Market Approach in Strategic Evaluations (52:00) Owner Involvement and Cash Flow (1:05:00) Splitting Assets in Divorces (1:12:00) Investments - Ryan and Brandon (1:22:00) Final Thoughts and Practical Advice for Business Owners Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other busine...
9/11/24 • 77:25
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Mike Frommelt, the co-founder of Strategic Talent Partners and a seasoned expert in executive search and leadership development for privately held businesses. We dive into the critical role of talent assessment and leadership development in scaling a business beyond the founder’s personal capacity. Mike shares his unique insights on how to assess a company’s leadership team, the challenges owners face when transitioning from day-to-day operations, and the importance of aligning leadership talent with ownership goals.Watch on YouTube Mike explains the differences between hiring internally versus externally, and why sometimes promoting from within isn’t always the best option. We also explore the strategic role of a CEO or president and how to identify whether someone has the capacity to think strategically and lead teams effectively. Mike's framework for evaluating leadership potential and his holistic approach to aligning talent with business goals will leave business owners equipped with actionable steps to start building a leadership team that can thrive without their constant involvement. Mike Frommelt is the is the co-founder of Strategic Talent Partners, a national executive search and leadership solutions firm. With over 20 years of experience, Mike specializes in C-level executive search and leadership development for privately held businesses. He helps companies transition from founder dependency by recruiting and integrating leadership talent aligned with ownership goals. Mike's expertise ensures organizations grow sustainably while equipping teams to thrive. Learn more at www.strategictalentpartners.com. Chapters: (00:00) – Introduction (01:20) – Mike Frommelt’s Journey and the Creation of Strategic Talent Partners (05:00) – The Challenges of Founder Dependency and Leadership Transitions (08:30) – Assessing Your Leadership Team: Internal vs. External Hires (14:15) – The Role of Strategic Thinking in Leadership (25:00) – Joel Trammell, CEO’s, and finding candidates (39:00) – Developing High-Potential Leaders from Within, What Traits to Look for in Future Leaders (42:00) – Growth Leadership Model, Assessments (51:10) – Compensation (1:00:01) – Compensation of C-Suite vs. size of company (1:11:00) - Advice for Business Owners, Final Thoughts and Call to Action Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission...
9/5/24 • 72:11
In this episode of Independence by Design™, Ryan Tansom is joined by Craig Rutledge, an expert in compensation strategy and the Partner at VisionLink. Craig offers valuable insights for growth-oriented business owner-operators looking to step back from daily operations and hire a CEO who can drive both cash flow and equity growth. He addresses the critical need to design compensation strategies that align the goals of the owner with those of the leadership team, ensuring that the owner can manage the company from an ownership perspective without worrying about the stability of their income from distributions or the growth of the company’s value. Watch on YouTube Craig discusses how to structure compensation plans that not only attract premier talent but also ensure that these leaders are motivated to make decisions that support sustainable cash flow and increase equity valuation. By linking short-term and long-term incentives directly to the owner’s financial goals, Craig helps owners confidently step back from the day-to-day operations, knowing their company is in good hands and positioned for growth. This episode is essential for business owners who want to replace themselves in operations while maintaining control over their financial future. Craig Rutledge is the founder of VisionLink, a leading expert in compensation strategy with over 25 years of experience. He specializes in helping business owners align their leadership teams with their financial goals through innovative compensation plans. Craig’s expertise empowers owners to step back from day-to-day operations while ensuring sustainable cash flow and equity growth. His work has guided countless companies in securing long-term success. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Background (04:50) Craig Rutledge from VisionLink delves into executive compensation strategies (07:05) Drafting a compelling compensation philosophy statement (12:30) Recruiting and retaining high-level executives amidst compensation challenges (18:57) Short-term bonuses and long-term equity growth plans (24:42) Importance of aligning compensation with working capital and EBITDA (29:00) Phantom equity plans versus actual equity (35:00) Structuring executive compensation plans (43:00) Structuring compensation to align with strategic business objectives (53:00) Structuring short-term CEO compensation plans (1:00:27) Designing incentive plans for business success Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by owner-operators, Ryan developed Independence by Design™ to empower owner-operators to create sustainable cash flow, grow their company’s equity value, and achieve true independence. He has shared his insigh...
8/29/24 • 69:32
In this episode of Independence by Design™, Ryan Tansom is joined by Eric Roman, a former dentist turned entrepreneur and business coach, who shares his powerful story of building and exiting a successful dental service organization (DSO) worth $40 million. Despite his company’s impressive valuation, Eric felt cash flow broke and balance sheet rich, struggling with significant personal life issues. He believed the only way to solve his problems was to sell the business and pull the ripcord. However, after the exit, he realized that selling the business didn’t resolve the deeper issues in his personal life. Watch on YouTube Eric dives into the challenges of managing growth, the impact of business on personal life, and how implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) transformed his business. He also reflects on how he wishes he had an ownership framework like Independence by Design™ to guide him on the ownership side of decision-making, which could have provided the clarity he needed beyond the operational insights of EOS. Eric discusses the importance of having a personal operating system and how the One Life System helps entrepreneurs achieve both professional and personal success. Throughout the episode, Eric offers insights into balancing business demands with family life, the significance of personal clarity, and the necessity of having a support system to navigate the entrepreneurial journey. Eric Roman has over a decade of experience running high-powered, multi-location dental companies. From inception through exit, Eric understands all facets of what it takes to build transformational companies and, most importantly, personal joy. His breadth of expertise covers topics such as Executive team development, EOS (The Entrepreneurial Operating System), Culture Development, Managing Millennial and Post-Millennial Workforces, Developing High-Performing Associate Dentists, Work-Life Harmony, Personal Performance Habits, and much more. However, Eric's value isn't limited to his accomplishments: He has a unique ability to inspire and empower others to live abundant, impactful lives. Chapters: (00:00) Eric Roman's journey scaling his dental practice to $40M valuation (06:49) EOS in Transforming Business Operations, Balancing Business Success with Personal Fulfillment (14:00) Ownership Goals, Trade-Offs Between Immediate Cashflow And Long-Term Equity Growth, Personal Scorecards And Understanding Life Experience Costs (16:00) Building “a $100 Million company,” Managing Control And Expectations To Reduce Anxiety And Stress (24:39) Navigating the Challenges of Business Growth and Personal Life (36:15) Finding a “System”, The Power of Community and Support Systems for Entrepreneurs (40:33) Overcoming Identity Crises and Finding Meaning Beyond Business, Transition From Success To Significance (55:31) The One Life System: A Framework for Personal and Family Success (1:05:02) Final Thoughts and Call to Action Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the p...
8/29/24 • 67:06