In this first episode of the newly rebranded Independence by Design™ podcast, host Ryan Tansom introduces a groundbreaking ownership framework designed specifically for growth-oriented business owner-operators who seek true independence. Drawing from his personal experience of turning around and selling his family business, Ryan explains how traditional business operating systems focus on working in the business but fail to address how to work on the business to achieve the ultimate goal: independence.[Text Wrapping Break] 

Ryan details the Independence by Design™ Ownership Framework, which empowers business owners to create sustainable cash flow, grow their company’s equity value, and free themselves from the day-to-day grind. This framework is built around three essential steps:[Text Wrapping Break] 

1.) Understand the Game – Shift your mindset from operator to owner and master the art of business valuations. 

2.) Choose Your Game – Clarify your ownership goals and leverage a powerful ownership advisory team. 

3.) Play the Game – Master the business ownership game by creating a strategic financial roadmap that links operational performance to your personal and financial goals.[Text Wrapping Break] 

Ryan emphasizes that this framework is not just about exiting your business but about designing a life of independence where your business serves your personal aspirations, allowing you to do more of what you love. This episode is a must-listen for any owner-operator who feels stuck in the day-to-day operations and wants to take control of their time, wealth, and future. 

Chapters:  

• 00:00 Introduction and Background 


• 01:20 Ryan’s Journey: From Family Business to Creating the Ownership Framework 


• 06:00 What is Independence by Design™ and Why It Matters 


• 10:45 Shifting from Operator to Owner: The Key to True Independence 


• 15:30 Step 1: Understand the Game – Shifting Mindsets 


• 21:15 Step 2: Choose Your Game – Clarifying Ownership Goals 


• 25:50 Step 3: Play the Game – Creating a Strategic Financial Roadmap 


• 31:00 Aligning Operations with Ownership Goals 


• 36:10 Preparing for Future Episodes: Deep Dives into the Framework 


• 41:30 Final Thoughts and Call to