Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

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.

In the realm of exit plans, things don’t always go as planned. Sometimes they happen smoothly the first time, other times they face delays. But that’s the thing: there’s no one right way. Each exit is its own journey, with its own ups and downs. Join Mark Doman as he sits down with Craig Sturgill, COO, and Co-founder of Excel, a company at the forefront of the InsureTech space. Craig, a U.S. Army veteran and successful entrepreneur, shares his journey from starting an insurance agency at 18 to co-founding Excel. Follow along to learn about the challenges and strategic pivots he made, including an unsuccessful exit attempt, recalibration for growth, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people in order to execute a successful exit. Mark and Craig discuss:  Craig’s journey from door-knocking insurance sales to co-founding an InsureTech company How his business model shifted toward digital customer acquisition Insights into the InsureTech space and Excel’s innovative lead-generation strategies Valuable lessons learned from an attempted business exit and how diversification and a strong leadership team can make all the difference  And more Resources: Finish Big: How Great Entrepreneurs Exit Their Companies on Top by Bo Burlingham Medigap.com  BurialInsurance.com  Connect with Mark Dorman:  Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Craig Sturgill: LinkedIn: Craig Sturgill CraigSturgill.com Excel.com   About Our Guest:  At the age of 18, Craig Sturgill founded his first business. He built his Medicare-focused insurance agency, however, he was unable to find lead-generating vendors that met his standards for quality and high performance so in 2013 he partnered with 2 like-minded individuals to found Excel which he now acts as COO. He has since started multiple other businesses such as TruRidge, LLC and ​​Stealth Ventures, LLC.

Many believe that SBA loans are only for startups or fraught with bureaucratic red tape. However, this week’s guest, Tara Murphy debunks these myths, demonstrating the power of SBA lending in aiding successful business exits and transitions. Join Mark Doman and Tara Murphy, SBA Business Development Officer and Vice President of Huntington National Bank as they delve into SBA lending. They unveil how they work, changes that have happened to the process, and how they can be a powerful tool in your exit planning strategy. Whether you’re contemplating selling your business or simply curious about the options available for a future transition, this episode is packed with insights and practical guidance to help you lead your business down the right path even after you leave. Mark and Tara discuss:  What SBA lending is and how it works How business owners can leverage SBA loans for exit planning The impact of careful succession planning on the value and saleability of a business Common myths about SBA lending and how to utilize it effectively  And more Resources: Finish Big: How Great Entrepreneurs Exit Their Companies on Top by Bo Burlingham What’s the Value of Your Business? With Michael Carter Connect with Mark Dorman:  Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Tara Murphy: LinkedIn: Tara Murphy Huntington National Bank: Tara Murphy About Our Guest:  Tara Murphy is the SBA Business Development Officer and VP at Huntington National Bank with over 20 years in the finance industry. She possesses a strong focus on M&A financing and small business succession planning. Additionally, Tara brings years of experience in business expansion, commercial real estate, and debt consolidation to her role. She boasts a proven track record of success and harbors a deep passion for small businesses.

Are you ready to secure your legacy and ensure your business thrives beyond your exit? In this enlightening episode, Mark Dorman is joined by Jim Erben, president of Erben Associates and a sought-after exit and succession planning specialist. Together, they delve into the crucial, yet often daunting, process of planning for business exit and succession. Tune in for invaluable strategies and actionable insights on how to prepare for a smooth transition. Jim discusses:  Why business valuation is a crucial starting point in planning your exit The importance of aligning your business exit strategy with your personal wealth and estate planning Keys to a successful executive retention plan Contingency planning in case something unexpected happens to the business owner What makes Erben Associates different from other firms And more Resources: Finish Big: How Great Entrepreneurs Exit Their Companies on Top by Bo Burlingham BizEquity Connect with Mark Dorman:  Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Jim Erben: 512-402-0250 LinkedIn: Jim Erben Erben Associates About Our Guest:  Jim Erben is a highly sought-after exit and succession specialist, keynote speaker, and President at Erben Associates. Under his leadership, Erben Associates earned a spot multiple years running on the INC. 5000 list for one of the fastest-growing companies in the country and is a highly sought-after exit and succession planning firm. As an international speaker, Jim shares his 30+ years of experience with thousands of business leaders annually. He is well-known for his straightforward approach to succession or exit planning, business continuity, and executive retention. A distinguished advisor to clients and organizations, Jim is one of 500 senior American business leaders representing the private sector in Business Executives for National Security, an invitation-only think tank to help our national security become more efficient and effective. Jim’s proprietary process helps business owners navigate the complexities of succession and exit planning to help create an everlasting legacy.

Many entrepreneurs start their exit journey with a partial sale to de-risk from a substantial portion of their wealth being tied up in the business. Doing so sets them up for an eventual full exit. In this episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Jim Doyle, who founded and sold Jim Doyle and Associates (now JDA.Media). Jim shares his experience of navigating ESOPs (employee stock ownership plans) and eventually selling his business to a strategic buyer. Jim discusses:  The process of making his business “sellable” How the ESOP helped his employees develop an ownership mindset, enhancing the company culture Leveraging consultants, mastermind groups, and new executive leadership in the firm The emotional side of exiting a business (and how he dealt with it) Why you should always be thinking about “What’s next?” And more Resources: Finish Big: How Great Entrepreneurs Exit Their Companies on Top by Bo Burlingham Selling with a Servant Heart: Ten Lessons on the Path to Joy and Increased Income by Jim Doyle Trapped in the Family Business, Second Edition: A Practical Guide to Uncovering and Managing This Hidden Dilemma by Dr. Michael Klein Connect with Mark Dorman:  Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Jim Doyle: LinkedIn: Jim Doyle JDA.Media About Our Guest:  Jim Doyle loves sales, and he loves salespeople. He’s been selling and leading salespeople for almost fifty years. In 1991, he founded Jim Doyle and Associates, which is now the leading training and revenue development company in the Television and digital advertising business. During his 30 years with JDA, Jim presented workshops on sales and marketing to audiences all over the United States. Jim stepped away from the day-to-day leadership of what is now called JDA.media in 2020. But he’s quick to say he is a long way from being retired. He is still frequently speaking to salespeople and leaders about the principles in his new book, Selling with a Servant Heart.

Are you ready to transform the way you run your business? Today on the Finish Big Podcast,  Mark Doman introduces Joni Fedders, President of Aileron, and explores the unique nonprofit organization based in Dayton, Ohio. Together they explore how Aileron helps business owners and their teams embrace professional management to elevate their lives and organizations. Follow along to hear Joni’s passion for professional management, and how it empowers businesses and their owners to articulate a vision, align their organization towards it, and successfully navigate ownership transitions. Joni discusses:  The importance of having an exit plan and how it affects the future success of your business Aileron’s DOC System of professional management and its impact on business success The challenges of creating a thriving business and navigating transitions How Aileron supports business owners in different ways to achieve long-term success Aileron’s mission and involvement in the community And more Resources: Finish Big: How Great Entrepreneurs Exit Their Companies on Top by Bo Burlingham Run Your Business, Don’t Let It Run You by Clay Mathile Connect with Mark Dorman:  Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Joni Fedders: Aileron.org LinkedIn Joni Fedders (937) 669-6507 About Our Guest:  Joni Fedders is the President of Aileron, a nonprofit organization that helps business owners and their teams embrace professional management to elevate their people and organization. Joni directs strategic vision, culture, and operations, inspiring both the team and the community to elevate private businesses. Recipient of the “Forty Under Forty” award, Joni holds a business bachelor’s from Miami University and an MBA from Xavier University. With her husband Jim, she values family time, her dogs, and enjoys skiing, tubing, running, fishing, sports, and vacations with their three children.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to scale a family business into a multi-location, multi-million dollar empire? In the latest installment of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman talks with Ron Nagy, a successful second-generation business owner, about his journey of transforming a single-location body shop into a multi-location thriving enterprise, the challenges faced along the way, and the strategic decisions that led to their successful growth and eventual sale. Ron discusses:  How Nagy’s Auto Collision came to be and how it evolved over time The challenges faced during the business’s expansion phase  Market shifts and exit planning Post-exit ventures And more! Resources: Finish Big: How Great Entrepreneurs Exit Their Companies on Top by Bo Burlingham Nagy’s Collision Centers/Caliber Collision Pro Touch No Man’s Land by Doug Tatum Connect with Mark Dorman:  Succession Plus US LinkedIn: Mark Dorman LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus (330)-416-9271 mdorman@succession.plus Connect with Ron Nagy: LinkedIn: Ron Nagy X (Twitter): Ron Nagy About Our Guest:  Ron Nagy is a second-generation business owner. Ron served as the President of Nagy’s Collision Center before selling the business to Caliber Collision in 2019. Ron grew up in Doylestown, Ohio. He graduated from Chippewa High School in the Automotive Management Institute and has since won numerous chamber awards and industry awards. He has sat on many nonprofit boards and an industry advisory board. Ron is an active member in his church and in his spare time, helps his wife at their horse farm.

Are you a business owner standing at the crossroads of change, wondering what to do next?  You’re not alone. In this episode, Mark Dorman and founding member of the Legacy Advisors Network, Joe Scheid tackle the often-overlooked but critical issue that business owners face: the complex challenge of financial planning during pivotal transitions. Together they unravel the emotional and technical layers of financial decisions, drawing on Joe’s involvement with the Legacy Advisors Network and the Exit Planning Institute. By exploring the capabilities of the Capitalize software and discussing the emotional journey of business owners, you will gain valuable insights and actionable strategies for preparing for business transitions. Joe Scheid discusses:  His journey to the private and family business owner marketplace The Exit Planning Institute (EPI) Challenges of financial planning during business transitions How the Capitaliz software aids financial planning And more Resources: Finish Big: How Great Entrepreneurs Exit Their Companies on Top by Bo Burlingham Capitaliz – Exit Planning Tool Connect with Mark Dorman:  LinkedIn: Mark Dorman Succession Plus Call: (330)-416-9271 Email Mark: mdorman@succession.plus LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus Connect with Joe Scheid: LinkedIn: Joe Scheid Facebook: Joe Scheid StrategicFC.com LegacyAdvisorsAZ.com  About our Guest:  Joe Scheid, AIF®, CEPA®, CFBS®, CLTC® has transformed the lives of clients for nearly 28 years. With a unique and down-to-earth approach to financial planning, he empowers individuals and families to make sound decisions. Joe excels in guiding small and mid-sized business owners towards measurable and attainable financial objectives. Recognized for his capabilities as a financial advisor and small business resource, he prioritizes principles of character, integrity, excellence, and service. Joe Scheid is a registered representative of and offers securities, investment advisory and financial planning services through MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC (www.sipc.org) 17550 N. Perimeter Dr. Suite 450, Scottsdale AZ 85255. (480) 538-2900. CRN201911-221364

With a rapidly evolving marketplace and the persistent talent shortages in the accounting industry, the need for expert guidance in succession planning has never been more critical In this insightful episode, Mark Dorman speaks with Rich Craig, Managing Partner at 415 Group. Together, they discuss the intricacies of growing an accounting firm and the broader challenges that the industry faces. Rich imparts his wisdom on the vital topic of succession planning for business owners, underlining the significance of strategic foresight and the support of trusted professionals. By exploring the 415 Group’s approach to fostering advisory boards and their dedication to consistent client collaboration, you will learn how to navigate the complex exit process confidently and strategically. Rich discusses:  The history, growth, and expansion of the 415 Group Challenges and solutions to the talent shortage in the accounting industry Succession planning Collaboration with other firms And more Resources: Finish Big: How Great Entrepreneurs Exit Their Companies on Top by Bo Burlingham Connect with Mark Dorman:  LinkedIn: Mark Dorman Succession Plus Call: (330)-416-9271 Email Mark: mdorman@succession.plus LinkedIn: Succession Plus Facebook: Succession Plus Connect with Rich Craig: LinkedIn: Rich Craig 415Group.com  About our Guest:  As managing partner at 415 Group, Rich Craig manages a portfolio of client accounts, while also being responsible for the day-to-day operations of the firm. For over 30 years, he’s brought a wealth of accounting and consulting expertise to the firm with a focus on business valuation, forensic accounting, merger and acquisition assistance, as well as corporate tax and structured growth planning. Having served as an expert witness in hundreds of court cases, Rich has a deep understanding of business valuation, forensic accounting, and economic damages as they relate to the law. Beyond litigation, Rich shares his expertise as a nationally requested speaker at many legal CLE and accounting CPE educational events. Rich brings a unique background to 415 Group’s clients, allowing them to go beyond tax planning and compliance to entrepreneurial growth and success. He has previously used his skillset to work in the National Tax Department in Washington D.C. at Ernst & Young and on the Accountant Advisory Council for Intuit, Inc., based in Mountain View, California. As a leader in the firm, he has a keen eye for matching clients with the right team to best serve their needs. He values collaboration, knowing that a team with a diverse skill set is a stronger advocate for clients than just one individual. That culture is embraced by both clients and staff and has helped the firm grow from 15 to over 100 associates during his time at the firm.