Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Host Mark Dorman sits down with serial entrepreneur Dee Vaidya. Born in Bombay and raised in Pune, Dee's journey spans continents, industries, and decades — from rubber and plastics to electronics, Dell manufacturing, geospatial intelligence, and building a $50M+ government contractor before a successful exit. From starting with just $5,000 and a dream in Mary's family home, to winning a $200M global geospatial intelligence contract for the U.S. government, Dee's story is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and long-term thinking. This is a powerful conversation about immigration, entrepreneurship, family, culture, federal contracting, scaling, and giving back. Mark and Dee discuss: Early Roots & Education – Growing up in India, IIT Bombay, and following his father's entrepreneurial path. Family & Partnership – Building businesses with Mary and raising three children through multiple relocations. Reinvention – Moving from rubber & plastics into electronics, then into digital mapping and defence work. The Dell Years – Building PCs for Michael Dell in the early days of Dell Computer. Technographics Growth – From a small acquisition to a $50M+ company and 400+ employees. Geospatial Intelligence – Mapping the world for defence, navigation, and national security. Advisors & Mentors – The impact of Don Noble and building a world-class advisory team. The Exit – Selling Technographics to CACI and navigating a complex data room process. Giving Back – Launching the Wayne County Economic Forum to bring world-class speakers to Wooster. Life After Exit – Golf, table tennis, community leadership, and staying active. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus About the Guest: Dee Vaidya is a serial entrepreneur who has built, scaled, and sold multiple businesses across manufacturing, electronics, and geospatial intelligence. Born in India and educated at IIT Bombay, the University of Akron, and Purdue University, Dee moved to the U.S. to pursue entrepreneurship and the free-market system. He is best known for founding and growing Technographics, a geospatial intelligence company that won a $200M global contract and grew to over 400 employees before being sold to CACI. Dee is also the founder of the Wayne County Economic Forum and a recipient of the Wooster Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Award for his contributions to the community.  

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, host Mark Dorman sits down with Michael Carter — serial entrepreneur, venture investor and founder of BizEquity, and now founder & CEO of Entrepreneurs Management Group (EMG.AI). Michael has built platforms used by hundreds of thousands of businesses, created large shareholder value, and now aims to democratise entrepreneurship with an AI-driven roadmap and founders' co-pilot. Mark and Michael discuss: BizEquity origin — why business valuation needed democratising and the early insight that launched BizEquity. Democratisation — making knowledge faster, cheaper and more accessible for entrepreneurs. EMG.ai & the Roadmap — the 73-step Entrepreneurs Roadmap and the vision to be a coach/agent for founders. Digital Agents — what an entrepreneur's agent is, how it's built on LLMs and why every company will want one. Who EMG serves — solopreneurs, first-time founders and early-stage teams that lack VC networks. Monetisation & product path — free entry via Ben (the agent), moving to pro/agent subscriptions and community. Mission Capitalist Club — a non-partisan crew, think-tank for entrepreneurs, and community experiments. Big picture — entrepreneurship as the new athletic profession: coaching, repeatable playbooks and scaled mentorship via AI. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus About the Guest: Michael (Mike) Carter is a serial entrepreneur and founder of BizEquity (the world's largest online business valuation platform) and now Entrepreneurs Management Group (EMG.AI). Mike has helped platforms used by c.400,000 businesses, created substantial shareholder value, and now focuses on building tools (roadmaps + AI agents) that democratise entrepreneurship — giving founders an accessible coach, playbook and business brain. He also founded the Mission Capitalist Club, a philanthropic, apolitical entrepreneurs' community in Philadelphia.  

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, host Mark Dorman sits down with food industry executive and entrepreneur Pat Viancourt, owner and CEO of Herman Pickle Company in Garrettsville, Ohio. With decades of leadership experience across Seagram, Nestlé Waters, Hospitality Mints, Paragon Foods, and multiple private-equity-backed businesses, Pat shares how he went from corporate CPG and private equity to owning a family-built pickle company with both beloved legacy brands and major national partnerships. For listeners thinking about buying a business, exiting corporate life, or scaling a niche manufacturing company, this conversation is packed with real-world lessons on leadership, humility, and growth. Mark and Pat discuss: From Corporate to Ownership – How Pat moved from big consumer product companies and private equity into owning his own business. The Entrepreneurial Leap – Why he walked away from a secure executive role to search for a company to buy during COVID. Finding Herman Pickle Co. – The serendipitous story of revisiting a company he first saw 10 years earlier and turning it into his own. Checking Your Ego at the Door – What it really means to wear every hat in a small/mid-sized business, from "presidential to janitorial". Brand & Product Strength – The story behind Don Herman's half-sour and full-sour pickles and why customers say, "That's what a pickle should taste like." Nathan's & Private Label – How Herman Pickle Co. became the exclusive licensed manufacturer for Nathan's Famous pickles and a major player in private-label refrigerated pickles. Growth & Automation – Balancing labour challenges, automation, and operational efficiency while expanding distribution across the U.S. Vision for the Future – How Pat plans to make Herman Pickle Co. "bigger, faster, stronger" without losing its quality, culture, or roots. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus About the Guest: Pat Viancourt is an experienced CEO, food industry executive, and business owner. Over his career, he has led and grown companies in food manufacturing, foodservice distribution, secondary packaging, and custom printing, working with respected private equity groups such as Linsalata Capital Partners, Odyssey Investment Partners, and others. In 2021, Pat purchased Herman Pickle Company in Garrettsville, Ohio, a family-founded business known for its Don Herman fermented pickles and its role as the exclusive licensed manufacturer of Nathan's Famous refrigerated pickles. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its branded, licensed, private-label, and foodservice business while investing in automation and operational efficiency. Pat brings together corporate discipline, entrepreneurial courage, and a deep respect for legacy brands—showing how a well-run niche manufacturer can grow, innovate, and still stay true to its roots.  

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, host Mark Dorman sits down with Chris Cooper, Director of the Ohio Employee Ownership Center (OEOC) at Kent State University. For over 25 years, Chris has helped business owners across Ohio explore the power of employee ownership — guiding them through successful transitions, building strong ownership cultures, and creating legacies that last. Mark and Chris discuss: The OEOC Mission – How the Ohio Employee Ownership Center helps business owners transition their companies to employee ownership. The Human Impact – Real stories of employees who built life-changing wealth through ownership. ESOP Advantages – Why employee ownership creates win-win outcomes for owners, workers, and communities. Succession & Legacy – How founders can exit while preserving culture and jobs. EOT vs ESOP – The differences between Employee Ownership Trusts and ESOPs, and when each fits best. Collaboration & Support – How the OEOC partners with advisors, foundations, and business owners to make transitions possible. Success Story – A Cleveland company that became 100% employee-owned, creating over 200 new owners. The Future – Why Ohio leads the way in employee ownership and what it means for the next generation of business owners. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus About the Guest: Chris Cooper is the Director of the Ohio Employee Ownership Center (OEOC) at Kent State University. With over two decades of experience, Chris has worked with hundreds of business owners to explore employee ownership as a succession solution. He leads programs focused on succession planning, ownership culture, and employee-owned startups, and coordinates Ohio's Employee-Owned Network, which includes more than 100 companies. Chris has spoken at national and international conferences across the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Bermuda, and is a Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) through the Exit Planning Institute. His work bridges research, education, and real-world impact—helping business owners finish strong while keeping their companies and communities thriving.  

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Host Mark Dorman sits down with Professor Kimberly Eddleston of Northeastern University and Cornell University's Smith Family Business Initiative. Professor Edelston is one of the world's leading scholars in family business and entrepreneurship—ranked among the top 2% of scientists by Stanford University and recognized by Family Capital as one of the world's Top 25 Family Enterprise Academics. Mark and Kim discuss: The Fredo Effect – What it means, how it appears in real family businesses, and why it's so hard to talk about. Family Dynamics – How loyalty, guilt, and generational expectations can turn a strength into a weakness. Research Findings – 33% of families admit to having a "family impediment" member—and why the real number is likely much higher. Nepotism vs Accountability – What happens when roles aren't clearly defined and bad behavior goes unchecked. Prevention & Governance – Practical tools to reduce risk: rules of entry, clear job descriptions, and outside boards of advisors. Culture & Communication – How open dialogue, fairness, and transparency can keep both relationships and revenue healthy. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus About the Guest: Professor Kimberly Eddleston is a globally recognized expert in family business, entrepreneurship, and innovation. She serves as a Research Fellow at Cornell University's Smith Family Business Initiative and teaches at Northeastern University in Boston. Her groundbreaking work explores how families can be both a resource and a constraint in their companies. Kim has authored award-winning papers, delivered workshops around the world, and helped countless families navigate the complex emotions of succession and leadership transition.  

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, host Mark Dorman sits down with Roger Atkins, President of the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA). Roger shares his remarkable journey—from sweeping floors in his father's Houston machine shop to leading a national organisation of over 1,000 small and medium-sized manufacturers. Mark and Roger discuss:: Manufacturing Roots: Growing up in the shop, discovering purpose, and falling in love with the craft. Resilience in Business: Navigating oil downturns, 9/11, and economic uncertainty while keeping businesses alive. Community Power: Why peer groups and associations like NTMA are lifelines for owners. Precision & Innovation: How small shops quietly power rockets, aircraft, and national security. Succession & Legacy: Why every business owner needs a plan, and how failing to prepare risks employees, families, and the future. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus About the Guest: Roger Atkins is the President of NTMA, representing small and medium-sized manufacturers across the U.S. With decades of leadership experience, he is dedicated to helping owners grow, sustain, and transition their businesses with purpose.

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, host Mark Dorman welcomes back Corey Rosen, founder of the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO), for Part 2 of their conversation on alternative ownership structures—specifically, the Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). Following their earlier discussion on Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), Mark and Corey explore how EOTs differ, their origins, and why some business owners may choose them over ESOPs. They cover the practical, cultural, and philosophical factors driving this emerging succession strategy in the U.S. Mark and Corey discuss: EOT Origins & Growth: How the model evolved in the UK (inspired by the John Lewis Partnership) and its rapid adoption overseas. Key Differences from ESOPs: Costs, complexity, tax implications, and the flexibility to set custom rules for ownership and profit distribution. Ideal Candidates: Why smaller companies (often under 50 employees) and owners committed to long-term independence may benefit most. Purpose Trusts: How some companies, like Patagonia, use ownership trusts for social and environmental missions. Succession Planning Considerations: When an EOT makes sense versus a management buyout, phantom stock, or other equity models. NCEO's Role: Resources, research, and networking opportunities for companies exploring employee ownership. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus About the Guest: Corey Rosen is the founder of the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO). A former Capitol Hill staffer and political science professor, Corey helped draft early ESOP legislation in the 1970s and has since authored numerous books and research papers on employee ownership. Today, he leads NCEO's mission to educate and support businesses considering employee ownership as a sustainable, wealth-building alternative to traditional exits.  

In this episode of Finish Big the Podcast, Host Mark Dorman is joined by Corey Rosen, founder of the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO) and one of the world's leading experts on employee ownership. Corey shares his decades-long journey—from drafting the original ESOP legislation on Capitol Hill to helping thousands of business owners implement employee stock ownership plans. He and Mark explore the massive impact ESOPs can have on succession, company culture, employee wealth, and long-term legacy. Mark and Corey discuss: From Policy to Practice: How Corey transitioned from political science professor to Capitol Hill staffer, eventually founding the NCEO in 1981. ESOP Growth & Tax Advantages: The rise of employee ownership, how ESOPs work, and why their tax advantages make them a powerful tool for succession. Bipartisan Appeal: Why ESOPs remain one of the rare ideas with support across political lines—from Elizabeth Warren to Tommy Tuberville. Succession Planning Realities: Why ESOPs offer flexible exit options for baby boomer business owners, while preserving legacy and rewarding employees. Section 1042 & Tax Deferral: A deep dive into how sellers can defer capital gains taxes through reinvestment, and the lesser-known wealth-building benefits of ESOPs. Who Should Consider an ESOP?: The financial, managerial, and structural conditions that make a company ideal for employee ownership. Culture and Engagement: Why communication, open-book management, and employee involvement are the key to successful ESOP-driven transformation. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus About the Guest: Corey Rosen is the founder of the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO). A former Capitol Hill staffer and political science professor, Corey helped draft early ESOP legislation in the 1970s and has since authored numerous books and research papers on employee ownership. Today, he leads NCEO's mission to educate and support businesses considering employee ownership as a sustainable, wealth-building alternative to traditional exits.

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Host Mark Dorman is joined by Sigi Loya—an entrepreneur with a remarkably diverse background spanning corporate America, real estate finance, healthcare entrepreneurship, and business coaching. Sigi Loya shares his evolution from a corporate employee benefits expert to founding multiple businesses, including a holistic medical practice and TAB Pittsburgh, a peer-to-peer advisory board franchise. He also discusses launching Affordable Business Valuations with his son to empower business owners with accurate and actionable insights into their company's worth. Mark and Sigi Loya discuss: Corporate to Entrepreneurial Shift: Leaving a successful corporate career to build new ventures from the ground up. Resilience in Business: Overcoming near-failure experiences with grit and the support of peer networks. The Power of Peer Advisory Boards: How TAB helped CG and others navigate critical decisions through shared wisdom and accountability. Succession & Legacy Planning: Why making yourself less central to your business increases its value. Business Valuation Insights: The importance of knowing your business's worth before a sale and how Biz Equity helps demystify this process. Family Business Collaboration: Working alongside his son to build a valuation business grounded in education and long-term strategy. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus About the Guest: Sigi Loya is a seasoned entrepreneur and TAB Pittsburgh franchise owner. With roots in corporate insurance and employee benefits, he transitioned into real estate finance and healthcare entrepreneurship before finding his true passion in business coaching and valuations. His mission today is helping small business owners scale smartly, plan successful exits, and realise the true value of their life's work.

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, host Mark Dorman sits down with Brian Zawada—a seasoned business continuity and operational resilience expert, entrepreneur, author, and now boutique winemaker. Brian shares his incredible journey from serving as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Air Force to co-founding Evolution Consulting, scaling the business, and navigating a successful private equity-backed exit. Today, he's living a new chapter as the co-founder of Violet Vines, crafting exceptional Oregon wines. This episode is packed with insights on risk management, leadership, entrepreneurship, and life after business ownership. Brian's story is one of intentional decision-making, continuous learning, and the courage to reinvent yourself. Mark and Brian discuss: Military Precision in Business: Lessons from strategic intelligence and risk management. Bootstrapping to Success: Scaling Evolution Consulting without debt. Breaking Growth Barriers: How private equity and strategic partnerships fueled expansion. The Exit Journey: Challenges, lessons, and the importance of cultural fit with investors. Life After the Exit: Finding passion and purpose in winemaking at Violet Vines. Family, Freedom & Legacy: Balancing career ambitions with personal priorities. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Brian Zawada: LinkedIn: Brian Zawada Website: Violet Vines About the Guest: Brian Zawada is a resilience strategist, business advisor, and winemaker. With nearly 30 years of experience in business continuity and operational resilience, Brian has worked across industries including manufacturing, pharma, biotech, and consumer goods. He is the author of The Business Continuity Operating System and a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Business Continuity Institute. Today, he channels his passion into Violet Vines, a boutique winery in Oregon, alongside his family.

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Host Mark Dorman interviews Renee Russo, a dynamic CEO, coach, exit planner, and speaker from Melbourne, Australia, now based in Vancouver, Canada. Rene shares her journey from corporate accounting at KPMG to becoming a sought-after business coach and exit planner. She dives into how her personal challenges and professional pivots led her to develop an innovative approach to business freedom and growth. Renee's story highlights resilience, transformation, and the power of leveraging proven processes to turn chaos into clarity. She is passionate about helping business owners align their personal, financial, and business goals to build sustainable success and unlock wealth while maintaining personal freedom. Mark and Renee discuss: Chaos to Clarity: Implement systems to take control of your business. Mindset Matters: Shift to a value-focused approach for sustainable growth. Lead with Discipline: Build accountable, high-performing leadership teams. Plan for Freedom: Exit planning is about creating opportunities, not just endings. Life by Design: Align business and personal goals for lasting success. Resilience Wins: Turn setbacks into opportunities for growth. Peer Power: Leverage peer support for inspiration and professional growth. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Renee Russo: Website: Rise Up Business Coaching LinkedIn: Renee Russo About the Guest:  Renee Russo is the CEO and Founder of Rise Up Business Coaching, a leader in helping business owners align their personal and professional goals to achieve freedom and long-term success. She is a certified EOS Implementer and Exit Planning Advisor who leverages her vast experience to deliver high-impact coaching, workshops, and keynotes.

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman interviews Fred DiSanto, Chairman and CEO of Ancora Investments. Fred shares his inspiring journey from playing college sports to building a $10 billion investment firm. He discusses pivotal career moments, including his transition from institutional sales to founding Ancora, the challenges of scaling the business, and the strategies that have driven its success. Fred emphasises the importance of strong relationships, assembling top-tier talent, and offering innovative solutions like activism and alternative investments to differentiate in a competitive market. Fred also highlights his commitment to fostering a culture of ownership, sharing equity with nearly 40 employees during a significant liquidity event in 2021. He reflects on his philanthropic efforts, supporting institutions like Saint Ignatius High School and Case Western Reserve University, and his vision for Ancora's future—focusing on growth, client satisfaction, and community impact. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, succession planning, and building a lasting legacy. Mark and Fred discuss: Relationships Matter: Strong client and team relationships fuel growth. Stand Out: Differentiation through unique services drives success. Shared Ownership Wins: Employee equity fosters loyalty and growth. Community Impact: Supporting education and diversity builds a lasting legacy. Plan Ahead: Succession planning ensures stability and continued growth. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Fred DeSanto ● LinkedIn About the Guest: Fred DiSanto is the Chairman and CEO of Ancora Investments, a leading Midwest-based investment firm managing over $10 billion in assets. With decades of experience in finance, Fred has built a reputation for innovation, leadership, and fostering strong client relationships. A graduate of Case Western Reserve University, Fred is passionate about talent development, philanthropy, and driving growth through proprietary strategies like activism and alternative investments. His dedication to community and excellence has made him a respected figure in the financial industry.

In this episode of Finish Big, Mark Dorman engages with Brant Hammer, a finance professor and investment expert, to discuss the pressing economic challenges of inflation and their impact on businesses. They dive into Biden's economic policies, Trump's potential strategies for growth, and actionable insights for entrepreneurs to build strong succession plans. This conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for business leaders navigating a rapidly evolving economy. Mark and Robert discuss: WVU's Student Managed Investment Fund gives students real world investment experience. Inflation during Biden's term was fuelled by fiscal deficits and supply chain disruptions. Small businesses suffered in a "K-shaped" recovery, widening economic gaps. Trump's energy policies could lower oil prices and reduce inflation risks. Tariffs can be a strategic tool to negotiate fairer trade agreements. Extending the 2017 tax cuts would stabilise markets but must be balanced with spending cuts. Pro-energy policies could lower production costs and benefit consumers. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Robert: LinkedIn About Our Guest: Robert Hammer is a finance professor at WVU and advisor to the Student Managed Investment Fund, where he mentors students managing a $650,000+ portfolio. With extensive experience in banking and academia, Robert also authors Capital Notes, a newsletter focusing on investments and macroeconomics.

What are some of the most common pitfalls family business owners face when planning for "The Four D's," and how can they proactively address them? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman sits down with James Aussem, a distinguished attorney specialising in succession planning, mergers, and acquisitions. Together, they explore the challenges of planning for "The Four D's"—Death, Disability, Departure, and Discord—and share actionable strategies for family businesses to navigate transitions successfully. James discusses his journey from a tax attorney at Ernst & Ernst to a career dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and family business owners. He provides insights into why closely held family businesses require unique planning approaches, touching on key considerations like ownership requirements, business sustainability, and equity among family members. Mark and James discuss: Death, Disability, Departure, and Discord – The essential planning considerations for business owners. The Three W's for Family Businesses: What do current owners need? What can the business afford? What is fair for all stakeholders? Mistakes to Avoid in Succession Planning – How miscommunication and lack of planning can lead to failure. Baby Boomer Business Transitions – Advice for the wave of retiring entrepreneurs Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with James Aussem: LinkedIn: James Aussem About Our Guest: James Aussem is a seasoned attorney and shareholder at Cavitch, Farmelo, and Durkin Co., L.P., specialising in succession planning, mergers and acquisitions, and estate management. With over 40 years of experience, he's a trusted advisor to family businesses, simplifying complex legal issues to deliver practical solutions. A Hall of Fame inductee by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils, Jim is also recognised annually as one of The Best Lawyers in America. Known for his entrepreneurial mindset, Jim is dedicated to helping business owners plan for success and longevity.

Why do some family businesses thrive for generations while others struggle with succession and longevity? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman hosts Carol Butler, President of the Garing Center for Family and Private Business at the University of Cincinnati, North America's largest university-based family business center. Together, they discuss how the Garing Center supports family-owned businesses with resources that drive growth, resilience, and community. Carol shares her journey from a Fortune 500 executive to a key player in family business support, emphasizing the center's mission to foster the success and sustainability of private and family-owned businesses through real-world insights, leadership programs, and roundtable discussions. Mark and Carol discuss: The Importance of Community for Family Businesses Roundtable Groups and Their Impact Educational Programs and Institutes Challenges in Family Business Transitions Affordable Resources for Small Businesses Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Carol ButlerLinkedIn: Carol Butler About Our Guest: Carol Butler brings 30 years of corporate leadership experience and a passion for helping family businesses succeed. As President of the Garing Center, Carol is dedicated to providing educational support and resources that ensure the longevity and impact of family-owned businesses in the Cincinnati region and beyond.

Are you a business owner considering an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) or exploring succession strategies? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman delves into ESOP financing, discussing how bank and seller financing typically work together, and the potential advantages of mezzanine loans. Gain insights into tax implications, the role of ESOP trustees, and how these plans can benefit both the business and the community. This week's guest, Kelly Finnell, President of Executive Financial Services Inc., offers his expertise on ESOPs. He covers essential topics such as the process, timeline, and personal satisfaction involved in executing a successful business transition. Tune into this episode for a comprehensive guide to ESOPs and succession planning. Discover how to navigate these complex transactions and ensure your business's legacy thrives. Don't miss out—listen now! Mark and Kelly discuss: Combining bank and seller financing, and the use of mezzanine loans. Differences in taxation for current pay interest and warrants in seller debt. Ensuring fair market value and commercially reasonable terms in ESOP transactions. The typical changes in the business owner's role, salary, and benefits. The steps and time required for feasibility analysis and transaction implementation. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Kelly Finnell: LinkedIn: Kelly Finnell About our guest: Kelly Finnell is a leading ESOP consultant and president of Executive Financial Services Inc. Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Kelly specializes in ownership succession planning and has authored "The ESOP Coach." With extensive expertise in ESOP transactions, Kelly guides businesses through financing, taxation, and trustee responsibilities.

Are you a business owner looking to maximize the value of your enterprise and grow your client base? This episode of the Finish Big podcast offers actionable insights and practical advice to help you achieve your business goals. This week's guest, John D. Hanson, an award-winning author and expert in customer service, shares his journey from zero LinkedIn contacts to over 30,000. John discusses optimizing client relationships, leveraging LinkedIn for networking, and the power of video content. Learn about his strategies for maintaining client engagement and his approach to customer discovery, providing a roadmap to enhance your business success. Tune into the Finish Big podcast to hear John D. Hanson's expert tips on growing your business, engaging your customers, and maximizing your company's value. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a seasoned professional. Mark and John discuss: The importance of clients knowing all the services and solutions a business offers. Strategies to leverage existing clients and their networks for easier sales. The impact of optimizing LinkedIn profiles and consistent engagement for business growth. The effectiveness of video content in building trust and engaging potential clients. The five dimensions of customer experience from John's book, Fifth Dimensional Customer Experience. Connect with Mark Dorman: Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with John D Hanson. About our guest: John D. Hanson is an award-winning author and customer experience expert. With three acclaimed books, including Wow Your Customers and Fifth Dimensional Customer Experience, he helps businesses enhance their customer engagement. A dynamic speaker and LinkedIn strategist, John shares actionable insights for business growth and client retention.