Shows
The Middle Ground MicThe MiddleGround Mic is EXPLODING!!!!Send us a textWe are EXPLODING and have moved up to #36 in the US for News Commentary on a podcast!!! Support us on PayPal:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=QH8JPJGTEMQRS Your donation helps keep The MiddleGround Mic independent, ad-free, and fearless. Every dollar supports research, production, and honest dialogue that cuts through the noise. Support the show2025-07-2100 minThe Middle Ground MicThe MiddleGround Mic is EXPLODING!!!!Send us a textWe are EXPLODING and have moved up to #36 in the US for News Commentary on a podcast!!! Support us on PayPal:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=QH8JPJGTEMQRS Your donation helps keep The MiddleGround Mic independent, ad-free, and fearless. Every dollar supports research, production, and honest dialogue that cuts through the noise. Support the show2025-07-2100 min
executive sessionsEpisode 22: successfully merging companies & culturesOn MiddleGround’s twenty-second episode of executive sessions, Clayton Gullet leads discussions with Ryan McComb, our Managing Director on the Transaction Team, and Dan Stoettner, CEO of A. M. Castle & Co. This episode covers: Strategic Benefits of Company Mergers Culture Alignment in MergersEffective Merger Communication and IntegrationOvercoming Merger ChallengesCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/3Ry8BdELearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find Ryan McComb on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan...2025-05-2928 min
Private Equity Value Creation PodcastEp. 74: John Stewart, MiddleGround Capital | Optimizing Operations in Industrial Manufacturing PortcosShiv interviews John Stewart, Founder and Managing Partner at MiddleGround Capital.In this episode, John shares his expertise in investing in the industrial B2B manufacturing space — from his two decades at Toyota, to moving to the investment side of the equation. Learn about underwriting the value creation plan and creating enterprise value for industrial portcos, as well as investing in and optimizing manufacturing companies in the current landscape and how this can translate into quick returns for the fund and LPs.2025-05-2246 min
Private Equity Value Creation PodcastEp. 74: John Stewart, MiddleGround Capital | Optimizing Operations in Industrial Manufacturing PortcosShiv interviews John Stewart, Founder and Managing Partner at MiddleGround Capital.In this episode, John shares his expertise in investing in the industrial B2B manufacturing space — from his two decades at Toyota, to moving to the investment side of the equation. Learn about underwriting the value creation plan and creating enterprise value for industrial portcos, as well as investing in and optimizing manufacturing companies in the current landscape and how this can translate into quick returns for the fund and LPs.2025-05-2244 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 21: practical automation for manufacturersOn MiddleGround’s twenty-first episode of executive sessions, Clayton Gullet leads discussions with John Dotson and Miles Anderson from MiddleGround’s Automation. This episode covers: Automation as a response to labor shortages How to identify tasks to automateEnsuring success: training, ROI, and cultureCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/3Ry8BdELearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find John Dotson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-dotson-5ab9142a/Find Miles A...2025-04-2338 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 20: marketing - the key to winning new businessOn MiddleGround’s twentieth episode of executive sessions, Clayton Gullet leads discussions with Nate Wheeler, Founder of marketing agency weCreate, and Leanne Walmsley, Communications & Marketing Manager at our portfolio company, Xtrac. This episode covers:Developing an effective marketing strategy The importance of digital marketing in B2B manufacturingLeveraging cost-effective marketing for growth Check out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/4iYFHieLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find Nate Wheeler on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/i...2025-03-1828 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 19: bringing innovation to marketOn MiddleGround’s nineteenth episode of executive sessions, Clayton Gullet leads discussions with John Stewart, MiddleGround’s Founding Partner, and Steve Myers, former operations leader at Parker Hannifin. This episode covers:Innovation process and customer-centric developmentChallenges and risk managementSuccess factors for innovation Check out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/4gHJUpcLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow John Stewart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnstewartky/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ 2025-02-1342 min
The Private Equity Podcast, by Raw SelectionStrategic Insights on Exit Planning with Christen ParasWelcome back to The Private Equity Podcast, by Raw Selection! Today, we’re joined by Christen Paras, Partner of the Transaction Team at MiddleGround Capital, to explore innovative exit strategies and how MiddleGround is redefining Private Equity practices.Breakdown:[00:03] Christen Paras returns to discuss MiddleGround’s unique exit strategy approach.[00:30] Partner at MiddleGround Capital, based in New York City, leading the transaction team.[00:59] Private Equity firms often lack adaptability—Christen emphasizes innovation and agility.[01:26] MiddleGround’s infrastructure, a KPI-driven, collabora...2025-01-2127 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 18: changing careers from auto to railOn MiddleGround’s eighteenth episode of executive sessions, Clayton Gullet leads discussions with Bill Krueger, President of Global Manufacturing Operations at The Greenbrier Companies. This episode covers:Transitioning from automotive to rail Key differences between automotive and rail manufacturingDeveloping ESG practices in a new industryCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/3E1PSnkLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find Bill Krueger on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-bill-krueger-3916803/2025-01-1638 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 17: infrastructure todayOn MiddleGround’s seventeenth episode of executive sessions, Clayton Gullet leads discussions with MiddleGround's very own Ryan McComb, Managing Director and Infrastructure Thesis leader, and David Walden, Director, from the Transaction Team. This episode covers:Trends driving growth in the sectorHow aging infrastructure creates pressure to innovateStrategies for overcoming hurdles such as labor shortages and rising costsEmphasizing our thesis-driven approach Check out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/3ZMCKumLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find Ryan McCo...2024-12-1027 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 16: building a successful workforceOn MiddleGround’s sixteenth episode of executive sessions, Clayton Gullet leads discussions with MiddleGround portfolio CEOs Ron Lindsay of Lindsay Precast and Tom Brockley of Arrow Tru-Line. This episode covers:Creating an Engaged WorkforceStrong Management, Communication, and TrustAdapting to Labor Market ChallengesCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/4fDzQ0iLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find Tom Brockley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tombrockley/2024-11-1438 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 15: cutting energy use in manufacturingIn episode 15 of Executive Sessions, we explore practical approaches to cutting energy usage in manufacturing with MiddleGround Capital’s Director of Operations, Jason Jacob, and Director of ESG, Madelyn Tutewiler. In this episode, they explore:1. Strategies for improving energy efficiency with case studies from across the MiddleGround portfolio 2. Common barriers to implementation3. Creating a culture of sustainability4. How sustainability can impact the bottom lineCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/4fpdkbPLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: htt...2024-11-1336 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 14: dealing with disasterOn MiddleGround’s fourteenth episode of Executive Sessions, Clayton Gullet leads discussions with MiddleGround Founding Partner, Scot Duncan, Managing Director of our Transaction Team, Ryan McComb, and CEO of Attala Steel Industries, Gary Kessinger. This episode covers:Responding to a Critical Equipment FailureLessons Learned from the DisasterManaging Crisis Situations in ManufacturingCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/3CpJwNvLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find Scot Duncan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scot-duncan-45a23...2024-09-1732 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 13: crafting success in complex projectsOn MiddleGround’s thirteenth episode of Executive Sessions, Clayton Gullet leads discussions with MiddleGround Founding Partner, Scot Duncan, and our Vice President of Operations, Zach Jackson. This episode covers:Building a diverse and resilient teamPractical tips on how to manage teamsLessons in proactive problem-solvingCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/4iYFHieLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find Scot Duncan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scot-duncan-45a23211/Find Zach Jackson on LinkedIn: htt...2024-08-1430 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 12: maximizing manufacturing with technologyOn MiddleGround’s twelfth episode of Executive Sessions, Clayton Gullet leads discussions with MiddleGround Founding Partner, Scot Duncan, and our Managing Director of Operations, Stan Stanford. This episode covers: 1. Importance of Simple Technological Solutions in Manufacturing2. Bridging the Experience Gap in Manufacturing3. Real-time Shop Floor ManagementCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/48PegUmLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find Scot Duncan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com...2024-08-0130 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 11: demystifying private equity for business ownersOn MiddleGround’s eleventh episode of Executive Sessions, Clayton Gullet leads a discussion with our Director and Head of NA Business Development, Dyana Baurley, recapping her interview with David Bookbinder on the “Behind the Numbers” podcast. This episode covers:1. Private Equity as a Liquidity Strategy2. Factors Making a Company Investable3. Aspects of Selling a Business4. Overcoming Misconceptions about Private EquityCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/4fFv8yULearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linked...2024-06-2043 min
BluWave’s Karma School of BusinessPrivate Equity Spotlight: From Assembly Line to Investment Line with John StewartIn this insightful episode of the "Karma School of Business Podcast," host Sean Mooney sits down with John Stewart, the visionary founder and managing partner of MiddleGround Capital. With a background that breaks the conventional mold of private equity leadership, John shares his journey from a college dropout working the night shift at Toyota to spearheading a private equity firm that's redefining industry standards. This conversation delves into John's unique approach to private equity, emphasizing operational excellence and entrepreneurial spirit as key drivers of success. Episode Highlights: 1:24 - John Stewart's Unique Path to Private Equity: Jo...2024-05-2949 minPrivate Equity Podcast: Karma School of BusinessPrivate Equity Spotlight: From Assembly Line to Investment Line with John StewartIn this insightful episode of the "Karma School of Business Podcast," host Sean Mooney sits down with John Stewart, the visionary founder and managing partner of MiddleGround Capital. With a background that breaks the conventional mold of private equity leadership, John shares his journey from a college dropout working the night shift at Toyota to spearheading a private equity firm that's redefining industry standards. This conversation delves into John's unique approach to private equity, emphasizing operational excellence and entrepreneurial spirit as key drivers of success. Episode Highlights: 1:24 - John Stewart's Unique Path to Private Equity: Jo...2024-05-2949 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 10: reflecting on our success with John StewartUnder the leadership of our Founding and Managing Partner, John Stewart, we have carved out a unique and successful niche in the competitive world of private equity. On MiddleGround’s tenth episode of Executive Sessions, John meets with Sean Mooney, BluWave’s Founder, and CEO, sharing his journey and lending insight into the differentiated approach that has led us to success. 1. From the Factory Floor to Private Equity2. MiddleGround’s Differentiated ApproachIf you like this episode, check out BluWave’s “Karma School of Business” podcast dedicated to exploring private equity, best business practices, and real-tim...2024-05-2849 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 9: AI opportunities and risksOn MiddleGround’s eighth episode of Executive Sessions, Clayton Gullett leads discussions with MiddleGround Founding Partner, John Stewart, and the Dean of the University of Kentucky’s Gatton College of Business and Economics, Dr. Simon Sheather to talk all things AI. This episode covers:1. AI Opportunities and Benefits2. Setbacks and dangers of AI3. AI in Manufacturing and Private EquityCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/3Q4O8wvLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/comp...2024-04-1153 min
Dirty Moderate with Adam EpsteinDamon LinkerDamon Linker, is a writer for the Atlantic and is a senior lecturer in political science at the University of Pennsylvania. He also writes the Substack newsletter “Notes from the Middleground” and is an Open Society Project senior fellow at the Niskanen Center.Damon joins Adam to discuss his latest article for the Atlantic, "The Dead-Enders of the Reagan-Era GOP" in which Damon argues that Mike Pence's non-endorsement of Donald Trump only underlines how irrevocably the Republican Party has left traditional conservatism behind and embraces populism. Don’t miss Damon’s conversation with Adam about how...2024-03-291h 01
Behind The Numbers With Dave BookbinderPrivate Equity as Liquidity Solution – Dyana BaurleyIs private equity a solution for your company? Is private equity in your career path? Today’s guest says that she has “the coolest job in the world” and she’s going Behind the Numbers to discuss both of these questions.
Dave Bookbinder goes Behind The Numbers with Dyana Baurley, Director, Head of NA Business Development, Middleground Capital.
MiddleGround Capital is a private equity firm based in Lexington, KY. MiddleGround makes control equity investments in middle market B2B industrial and specialty distribution businesses. MiddleGround works with its portfolio companies to create value through a hands-on...2024-02-1924 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 8: UAW strikeOn MiddleGround’s eighth episode of Executive Sessions, Clayton Gullett leads discussions with MiddleGround Founding Partner, John Stewart, and Head of our Transaction Team, Justin Steil. This episode covers:The United Auto Workers StrikeElectric Vehicles2017-2024: A New NormalCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/3HFyoLXLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find John Stewart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnstewartky/Chapters:(00:00:00) Podcast and...2024-01-2941 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 7: 2023 economic retrospectiveOn MiddleGound’s seventh episode of Executive Sessions, Clayton Gullett leads discussion with MiddleGround’s Founding Partner, John Stewart, and the Director of the Center for Business and Economic Research, Associate Professor of Economics at the University of Kentucky’s Gatton College of Business and Economics, Dr. Mike Clark. This episode covers:2023 Economic StatusA Resurgence in US ManufacturingEconomic ResilienceLooking Ahead to 2024Check out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/4fIvXarLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capita...2023-11-0648 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 6: equity abroadOn MiddleGound’s sixth episode of Executive Sessions, Clayton Gullett leads discussions with MiddleGround Founding Partner, John Stewart, Managing Director of our European Transaction Team, Alex Van Der Have, and Head of EU Business Development, Anthony Denaix. This episode covers:Considerations of European ExpansionThe Importance of Hiring LocallyDifferences in strategy between the US/EUChallenging Economic EnvironmentsCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/47pnZilLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on Li...2023-11-0648 minexecutive sessionsEpisode 5: operational bootcamp 101On MiddleGround’s fifth episode of Executive Sessions, Clayton Gullett leads discussions with MiddleGround Founding Partner John Stewart and his brother, Co-Partner of Banner Industries, David Stewart. This episode covers:1. Building a Bootcamp2. Creating and Maintaining Cooperative Change3. Lean Manufacturing Requires Standardization4. The Impact of BootcampsCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/3Ptj6NELearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/middlegroundcapital/ Find John Stewart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joh...2023-08-291h 02executive sessionsEpisode 4: the ABCs of ESGOn MiddleGround’s fourth episode of executive sessions, Clayton Gullett leads discussions with two guests: Madelyn Tutewiler, Director of ESG, and Managing Director of ESG, Mike Bridge. This episode covers:1. The importance of involving ESG in businesses2. Raising minimum full-time pay to $25/Hour by 20253. Equitable hiring to reflect local communities 4. How we bring ESG to life in portfolio companiesCheck out our company blog recapping the episode: https://bit.ly/4hLCmDuLearn more about MiddleGround Capital: https://middleground.com/Follow MiddleGround Capital on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/co...2023-07-1749 min