Shows
Private Equity ExperiencePrivate Equity Unpacked: Lessons from Writing "On Ramp to Exit"Dive into the world of private equity with hosts Rory Liebhart, Emily Sander, and Ed Barton! In this episode of The Private Equity Experience Podcast, the trio discusses their groundbreaking book On Ramp to Exit—a no-nonsense guide to navigating PE transactions, avoiding pitfalls, and preparing for the future. Learn why they wrote the book, their personal stories from the trenches, and their predictions for AI’s impact on private equity in 2026. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or curious professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Don’t miss their plans for live case studies and guest intervie...
2025-12-2530 minPrivate Equity ExperienceNIL on Steroids: PE is Taking Over College Athletics!In this trending topic episode of the Private Equity Experience Podcast, hosts dive into the explosive intersection of private equity (PE) in college sports. Fueled by NIL deals, revenue sharing, transfer portal chaos, and massive TV rights contracts, college athletics—especially college football and basketball—is on the brink of a PE revolution. Is the Big Ten "selling its soul"? Could Notre Dame sell 10 years of TV rights for $2.8B? The team unpacks how PE could transform conferences like the SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, and ACC, boost efficiencies, and reshape the "student-athlete" model. Predictions: PE investments within the next year...
2025-11-2731 min
Riveo Impact LabBeyond Profit: How Beth Bengtson is Redefining Business for Social ImpactIn this episode of the Riveo Impact Lab, Elin sits down with Beth Bengtson, founder of Working for Women, to explore what it truly means for small businesses to become a force for social good. Beth shares her journey—from the high-powered world of 1990s Wall Street to discovering a deeper purpose in elevating women’s economic mobility. Together, they unpack the roots of her passion for purpose-driven business, the global experiences that shaped her worldview, and the pivotal moments that fueled her commitment to gender equity.Beth explains how Working for Women is changing live...
2025-11-2039 minPrivate Equity ExperienceHow PE Turns Hot Founders into Giants in 18 MonthsDiscover the secret sauce behind private equity (PE) growth strategies! In this episode, Emily Sander, Rory Liebhart, and Ed Barton break down why PE firms target founder-led businesses and reveal the tactical playbooks to scale them. From "buy low, sell high" foundations to aligning visions, unlocking growth through talent/capital infusion, and leveraging technology, they cover it all. You’ll learn how PE turns underperforming businesses into high-performing powerhouses in 18–72 months. Perfect for founders, business owners, and growth hackers!🔑 Key Topics Covered:🔑 Why founder-led companies are PE’s favorite acquisitions (spoiler: it’s all about untapped...
2025-11-1338 minPrivate Equity ExperienceEA Sports' $55B PE Acquisition: The WORLD'S BIGGEST Gaming LBO Explained!Breaking news! Electronic Arts (EA) – the studio behind FIFA, Madden, and Battlefield – is being acquired in the largest-ever private equity buyout ($55B! Katie stuns at the size of the deal). In this episode, we break down:✅ How Leverage Buyouts (LBOs) work (Rory’s $500k house analogy!) ☑️ The players: Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund + Jared Kushner’s PE firm + Silver Lake✅ EA’s $5B revenue surge, subscription model, and eSports addiction✅ The real question: Do investors see a $55B gaming empire or a ticking time bomb?📜 Regulatory delays (deal closes in 2027!) 🔍 Future predictions: 7-10 year hold + IPO exit
2025-10-3021 minPrivate Equity ExperienceFive Founder Fails: Navigating Private EquityIn this 35‑minute episode, the hosts break down the five most common pitfalls that founders face when they bring a private‑equity (PE) firm aboard. From overlooked deal structures to the emotional reality of an eventual exit, the conversation is packed with hard‑won lessons, humorous anecdotes, and actionable advice for entrepreneurs who are looking to or already in a PE partnership.“A founder’s job is to build a company. A PE partner’s job is to unlock value—so you need to know the difference.” – Ed BartonNavigating private equity is less about groundbreaking inn...
2025-10-1634 min
Leveraging LeadershipTransforming Leadership Meetings with the Flash Report: Insights from CEOs, CFOs, and CoSsEmily, Ed, and Rory break down how to use a Flash Report to keep leadership teams aligned and focused on key business metrics. They give a real example of a Flash Report, show how it highlights things like cash, sales, and training completion rates, and explain why keeping it simple matters. The episode covers choosing the right KPIs, what to include in the written updates, and how the Flash Report improves transparency and better questions from private equity partners.Links Mentioned:Previous Leveraging Leadership episode on the Flash ReportEd Barton’s guest spot on...
2025-10-1556 minPrivate Equity ExperienceThe AI Revolution in Private Equity: Diligence, Operations, & Value Creation | PE + AIArtificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s actively reshaping the landscape of Private Equity (PE) right now. In this can’t-miss episode of The Private Equity Experience, hosts Emily Sander, Ed Barton, and Rory Liebhart dive deep into how AI is creating immediate, tangible value in the PE ecosystem.The discussion kicks off with a rapid-fire round of questions about trusting AI in our personal lives, but quickly moves to how AI is transforming core business functions.In this episode, you will learn:Operational Engine...
2025-10-0237 min
Fuel Your Mind With This Thrilling Full Audiobook And Feel The Difference.LUNAR WHISPERS by EMILY BARTONPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/256910to listen full audiobooks.
Title: LUNAR WHISPERS
Author: EMILY BARTON
Format: mp3
Length: 3 hrs and 47 mins
Release date: 09-22-25
Ratings: Not rated yet
Genres: Science
Publisher's Summary:
2025-09-223h 47Private Equity ExperienceWhy Private Equity LOVES the Flash Report (And You Should Too)In this episode, hosts Emily Sander, Ed Barton, and Rory Liebhart dive deep into one of the most powerful tools for leadership teams and private equity-backed companies: The Flash Report.What You’ll Learn:What a Flash Report is and why it’s a game-changer for leadership transparency and decision-making.How to structure a Flash Report using frameworks like Balanced Scorecard, OKRs, or EOS.Why Flash Reports improve communication with boards, investors, and internal teams.Real-world examples of key metrics and narrative sections that make Flash Reports effective.How to avoid common pitfalls—like overcomplication or incons...
2025-09-1855 min
Riveo Impact LabFrom Pugs to Policy: Nancy Levine Stearns on Purpose and ImpactWhat does it really mean when corporations talk about diversity, equity, and inclusion? Are companies backing away from these commitments—or doubling down? In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, host Elin Barton sits down with journalist and author Nancy Levine Stearns to uncover the truth behind corporate DEI in 2025. From Costco’s bold stand against anti-DEI proposals to shareholder votes at Apple, Merck, and Target, Nancy shares her front-row insights into why boards and investors are overwhelmingly backing inclusion. Together, they explore: The myths and misinformation fueling the “DEI is dead” narrativeWh...
2025-09-1044 minPrivate Equity ExperienceIs Private Equity Too Big to Fail?Welcome to another insightful episode of The Private Equity Experience podcast! In this episode, Emily Sander, Ed Barton, and Rory Liebhart dive into the controversial question: Is private equity too big to fail? As they discuss the parallels between the banking industry's "too big to fail" concept and private equity's massive influence, they explore the implications for investors, companies, and the broader economy.Key Topics Covered:What does "too big to fail" mean for private equity?The role of private equity in the economy and employment.Historical precedents and lessons from past financial crises.Potential triggers...
2025-09-0438 min
Riveo Impact LabWhy Empathy is a Business Strategy: Monica Mockus on Human-Centered Creativity in HealthcareIn this episode of The Riveo Impact Lab, Elin and Emily sit down with Monica Mockus, founder, CEO, and Executive Creative Director of mock5 design, a creative agency specializing in healthcare and wellness. With more than 20 years of experience as a designer and art director, Monica brings a unique perspective on building a purpose-driven business rooted in empathy, compassion, and a human-centered approach.Monica shares her journey of launching and leading mock5, the lessons she’s learned in fostering creativity while running a company, and how design can create meaningful impact in industries that touch pe...
2025-08-2539 minPrivate Equity ExperiencePE's Secret Weapon? How Operating Partners Drive ReturnsIn this episode of the Private Equity Experience Podcast, we dive into the critical role of operating partners in private equity funding and their impact on the dilution of investment value. Hosts Emily Sander, Rory Liebhart, and Ed Barton break down how operating partners bridge the gap between PE firms and portfolio companies, offering tactical expertise, strategic oversight, and operational efficiencies. From CFOs and CTOs to turnaround specialists, discover why these professionals are a game-changer for PE returns and how they help mitigate risks in high-stakes investments.Key Topics Covered:What are operating...
2025-08-2135 minPrivate Equity ExperiencePrivate Equity in 401(k)s: A Risky Bet or a Game-Changer?Description:Tune in to the Private Equity Experience Podcast as we dive into the increasingly controversial topic of private equity making its way into 401(k) retirement accounts. This episode explores the latest developments, including Senator Warren's strong concerns and the potential risks associated with adding illiquid and volatile assets to employee retirement savings.Key Takeaways:Senator Warren's Stance: We discuss Senator Warren's critical letter to Empower, highlighting concerns about transparency, high fees, and liquidity risks associated with private equity offerings in managed 401(k) accounts.The Allure...
2025-08-0739 minPrivate Equity ExperienceRollin' Up Value: The Strategy & Risks of Private Equity Rollup MergersOverview: In this episode of The Private Equity Experience, Emily, Rory, and Ed dive into the world of rollup mergers in private equity. Rollup mergers involve acquiring and consolidating multiple smaller companies in the same industry to create a larger, more efficient entity. The hosts discuss the intricacies, challenges, and potential pitfalls of this strategy, providing insights into how private equity firms can navigate these complex transactions successfully.Key Discussions:Understanding Rollup Strategies:A rollup strategy involves acquiring and integrating multiple businesses in the same industry to achieve economies o...
2025-07-2438 minPrivate Equity ExperienceLeveraged Buyouts Uncovered: Private Equity’s High-Stakes GameIn Episode 15, hosts Emily Sanders and Rory Liebhart delve into the world of Leveraged Buyouts (LBOs), examining how private equity firms and other entities utilize substantial debt to acquire companies. Joined by expert Edward Barton, the conversation examines the mechanics of an LBO, its benefits and substantial risks, including cash flow pressure and covenant breaches. The episode also addresses why the current private equity market is experiencing a "log jam" due to factors like high valuations from past years and rising interest rates.Key Takeaways & Discussion Highlights (Leveraged Deal Structure)What is...
2025-07-1037 minPrivate Equity ExperienceThe Dilution Dilemma: Navigating the World of Equity FundingIntroduction to Equity Dilution and Its Impact on InvestorsEquity Dilution Definition: Occurs when a company issues new shares to raise capital, leading to a decrease in the ownership percentage of existing shareholders.Founder's Perspective: Founders often face the decision of whether to retain complete control over their company or raise capital by accepting dilution, which can significantly impact their future earnings and control.Key Stakeholders: Includes founders, employees, and investors who are all affected by dilution.💡 Understanding the Mechanics of...
2025-06-2631 min
We're Moving To EuropeRaising a child and running a business in FranceSummaryMoving to another country is a big challenge, especially if you’re bringing your child and your business to a new culture. Our guest, open source consultant and expert Emily Omier, did both when she moved from Oregon to Paris. She shares her experiences with getting her daughter ready for the move, learning what French public schools provide, and operating her consultancy business in a new bureaucracy. If you are thinking about leaving the US because you hate the politics in the US, you want to make sure that you actually pay attention to politics in...
2025-06-1831 minPrivate Equity ExperienceRaising Capital 101: Insights from Seasoned PE ProsDescription:In this episode, we explore the various types of funding rounds that a startup or business can undergo, ranging from angel investing to private equity buyouts. Our guests, Emily Sander and Rory Liebhart, are joined by Ed Barton, who shares his expertise on the private equity side.Key Takeaways:Angel investing: This refers to the initial round of funding, typically provided by high-net-worth individuals or family offices. It's a high-risk, high-reward investment, and the investor typically seeks a 10- to 20-fold return on investment.Pre-Series A: This is the next round of...
2025-06-1244 minPrivate Equity ExperiencePrivate Equity vs. Private Credit: Demystifying the Capital Stack, Risk, and ReturnsIn this episode, we dive into the world of private credit and its relationship with private equity. Our hosts, Rory, Emily and Ed, share their expertise on the differences and similarities between these two asset classes.Key Takeaways:Private credit refers to debt financing that is not publicly traded and is typically provided by private companies or investors.Private credit is not a new phenomenon, but its terminology has become more prominent in recent years as a separation from traditional banking and debt financing.Private credit is often used in...
2025-05-2934 min
Riveo Impact LabSimplifying Sustainability: How Aclymate Founder Mike Smith is Making Climate Action AccessibleHow can small businesses take real climate action without massive budgets or in-house experts? In this episode, we sit down with Mike Smith, founder and CEO of Aclymate—a platform designed to simplify carbon tracking and sustainability for everyday business owners. From serving as a Navy commander to leading major reforestation efforts, Mike’s path to climate tech wasn’t typical—but it’s one filled with purpose. In this episode, you’ll hear about:What Aclymate does to make carbon tracking easy for small businessesWhy sustainability is a smart move for business growt...
2025-05-1939 minPrivate Equity ExperienceTariffs, Trapped Equity, and the PE Tightrope: Navigating Uncertain MarketsSummary:In this episode, the hosts discuss the current economic environment, tariffs, and their impact on private equity. They also explore the concept of "trapped equity" and how it affects private equity firms. The conversation touches on the uncertainty created by tariffs, the risk premium required, and how it changes the dynamics of buying and selling assets.Key Takeaways:Tariffs create uncertainty: Tariffs lead to uncertainty, which can result in inaction and trepidation among investors and private equity firms.Trapped equity: Trapped equity refers to assets that...
2025-05-1537 min
Riveo Impact LabLeading with Authenticity and Action : Ashley Brundage’s Mission to Empower DifferencesWhat does it look like to lead with authenticity—and build power by embracing what makes you different?In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, co-hosts Elin Barton and Emily Adams sit down with Ashley Brundage, author, speaker, and the first transgender person to win any election in Florida. From navigating homelessness to founding a leadership company and running for state office, Ashley shares her powerful story of resilience and impact.Tune in as we discuss:How Ashley built her four-step empowerment modelThe data behind her DEI work—and why tracking outcomes mattersWhat it mean...
2025-05-0558 min
Riveo Impact LabWhy Accessibility Is Good Business — And What Every Leader Should Know with Amy GravesHow can businesses take small, meaningful steps toward inclusivity — and why is accessibility not just ethical, but strategic?In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, co-hosts Elin Barton and Emily Adams welcome Amy Graves, California Chapter President of NAWBO, founder and CEO of Hidden Consumer Consulting, and author of The Hidden Consumer. Amy shares her personal and professional journey as a disabled entrepreneur and industry consultant, and explores how accessibility and inclusive practices drive both human and business impact.Tune in as we discuss:The real-life challenges that inspired Amy’s mission-driven workHow accessible prac...
2025-04-2142 min
Riveo Impact LabFrom Advocacy to Action: Fiona Dawson’s Journey Through FilmHow can small businesses foster truly inclusive environments?In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, we dive into the vital conversation around inclusion, respect, and belonging in the workplace and beyond.Join us for an insightful discussion with Fiona Dawson, Emmy-nominated filmmaker, bestselling author, and expert in LGBTQIA+ inclusion. Fiona’s work, including Transgender, at War and in Love and Transmilitary, has challenged perceptions and sparked critical conversations on representation and equity. She is also the author of Are Bisexuals Just Greedy? and What Does That LGBTQIA Label Mean?, books that unpack gender an...
2025-04-0644 min
Riveo Impact LabBreaking the Mold: How Tony’s Chocolonely is Leading Ethical Chocolate ChangeChocolate is a treat we all love—but what if we told you that most of it comes at a cost? In this episode of Riveo Impact Lab, we sit down with Noel, U.S. Communications Specialist for Tony’s Chocolonely, to uncover the harsh realities of the chocolate industry and how one company is fighting for change.Noel shares Tony’s Chocolonely’s bold mission to end exploitation in cocoa farming, the company’s unconventional origins, and how they’re using storytelling, branding, and transparency to reshape the industry. We also discuss how consumers can make more ethical...
2025-03-2429 min
Riveo Impact LabResilient Leaders, Resilient Teams: Nicole Van Valen’s Guide to SuccessJoin us for this episode of Riveo Impact Lab as we explore resilience and well-being with Nicole Van Valen, CEO of Keane Insights. Nicole shares her journey from professional dancer to licensed therapist and business leader, as well as insights from her Three Stages Along Your Resilience Journey™. Discover how leaders can foster team resilience, manage stress, and create cultures of joy and inclusion, all while improving performance and well-being. Gain actionable tips for cultivating resilience and bringing more joy into your leadership and life. Tune in for a conversation full of inspiration and practical adv...
2025-03-1030 minPrivate Equity ExperienceThe PE Leadership Gambit: What Happens to the C-Suite After Acquisition?What happens to leadership teams when private equity enters the picture? In this revealing episode of The Private Equity Experience, Emily Sander, Rory Liebhart, and Ed Barton discuss the dramatic shifts that occur when PE firms acquire companies. Drawing from their battle-scarred experiences, they explore how founders navigate new stakeholder relationships, why CFOs often become CEOs, and the critical importance of meeting financial covenants. Learn why "business as usual" isn't an option, why flash reports become non-negotiable, and how to identify hidden talent during reorganization. Whether you're a founder considering a PE partnership or an executive navigating post-acquisition waters...
2025-03-0732 min