Explore every episode of the podcast Independence by Design™
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #436: Integrating Strategy, Execution, and Financial Clarity with Shannon Susko | 10 Apr 2025 | 01:12:46 | |
Today I'm talking with Shannon Susko, a serial entrepreneur who developed the 3HAG (3-Year Highly Achievable Goal) and Metronomics frameworks. What sets Shannon's approach apart is how directly it connects your strategic plan and execution rhythms to clear, measurable financial outcomes. It's an operating system built specifically for business owners who understand their numbers but want greater clarity on how daily decisions impact long-term value. In this episode, Shannon explains exactly how to align your team’s strategic actions with the financials, creating predictability in your business. We cover the specifics of her methodology and why integrating financial clarity into your strategic planning process is critical for creating real operational independence. If you want to build a business that’s both scalable and owner-independent, Shannon provides straightforward, practical insights you can apply immediately.
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with th... | |||
| #435: The New SBA Playbook for Acquisitions with John Thwing | 03 Apr 2025 | 01:35:53 | |
SBA loans have always been a key tool for financing business acquisitions, but recent changes have opened up new opportunities for both buyers and sellers. If you're thinking about selling your business, acquiring one, or financing a transition, these updates could have a major impact on your strategy. In this episode, I sit down with John Thwing ("The SBA Guy") from Live Oak Bank to break down the biggest changes, including how SBA loans now allow for partial buy-ins, why internal transitions are more viable than ever, and what banks are really looking for when funding deals. We also dive into how liquidity is often a bigger risk factor than leverage, why most business owners overestimate their company’s valuation, and how to structure financing to align buyer and seller incentives. If you’re considering a transition and want to understand how SBA loans fit into the picture, this episode will give you the insights you need to make a smart, strategic move.
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. | |||
| #434: Q1 Economic & M&A Update with ITR Economics, ButcherJosheph, & Joe Brown | 27 Mar 2025 | 02:12:57 | |
The economy is shifting fast, and if you’re a middle-market business owner, the moves you make today will define your future—whether that’s navigating capital markets, securing financing, or making critical reinvestment decisions. In this Quarterly Economic & M&A Update, I bring together three powerhouse guests to give you real-time insights you won’t find in mainstream media. Alan Beaulieu from ITR Economics shares the latest economic data and leading indicators to help you anticipate what’s coming next. Jeff Buettner from ButcherJoseph breaks down the current state of M&A—who’s buying, what’s happening with valuations, and how financing trends are shifting. Joe Brown from Heresy Financial takes us deeper into the macroeconomic landscape—government debt, money supply growth, and how it all ties back to your business decisions. If you’re a business owner looking to understand how these economic forces impact your company’s valuation, financing options, and long-term strategy, this episode is packed with timely and practical insights. Jeff Buettner is a Managing Director at ButcherJoseph with over 20 years of valuation and financial opinion services experience. He specializes in ESOP transactions, business valuations, fairness opinions, and financial restructuring across diverse industries. Previously, Jeff spent nearly a decade at Stout Risius Ross as Managing Director in ESOP Advisory Services and began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers. A former board member of the National Center of Employee Ownership, Jeff serves on The ESOP Association's Valuation Advisory Committee and regularly presents at industry conferences. He holds a BBA in Finance from the University of Kentucky and an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh. Chapters:
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| #433: Designing Your Future Org Chart: How to Build a Scalable, Owner-Independent Business with Mike Frommelt and Rick Rittmaster | 20 Mar 2025 | 01:38:37 | |
Scaling a business isn’t just about increasing revenue—it’s about building the right leadership team to support that growth. Too often, business owners get stuck because their team isn’t structured for the future, leaving them to fill the gaps instead of leading strategically. In this episode, I sit down with Rick Rittmaster and Mike Frommelt to break down how to design a future org chart that aligns with your company’s growth trajectory. We dive into how to assess your current leadership team, identify capability gaps, and decide when to develop talent versus hiring externally. If you’ve ever wondered how to objectively evaluate your leadership team and build a roadmap for the future, this conversation will give you a practical framework to ensure your business can scale without depending on you. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by owner-operators, Ryan developed Independence by Design™ to empower owner-operators to create sustainable cash flow, grow their company’s equity value, and achieve true independence. He has shared his insights o... | |||
| #432: Why More Growth Won’t Set You Free (And What Will) with Nick Bradley | 13 Mar 2025 | 01:45:48 | |
More revenue, more employees, and more complexity can actually pull you deeper into the day-to-day grind—unless your business is structured the right way. In this episode, I sit down with Nick Bradley, a business growth strategist and private equity veteran who has worked on billion-dollar deals and now helps business owners scale with purpose. We dive into the hidden traps of scaling, why private equity firms are changing their approach, and how to transition from being stuck in the business to running it like an investor. We also get into the critical distinction between cash flow and strategic valuation, why most exit planning advice is broken, and how owners can create optionality—whether they want to sell or simply step back from the daily grind. If you’re wondering how to build a business that truly works for you, this episode is a must-listen. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the chall... | |||
| #431: Turning Crisis into a Scalable ESOP with Heather Braimbridge-Cox and Bill Mills | 06 Mar 2025 | 01:38:06 | |
Many business owners dream of building a company that thrives without them, but few understand what it takes to make that a reality—especially when facing a leadership crisis. In this episode, I sit down with Heather Braimbridge-Cox, CEO of Windings, and Bill Mills, founder of The Leadership Process™, to break down how to transform a struggling culture, develop high-performing teams, and turn an ESOP into a thriving, scalable business. Heather shares her journey from private equity executive to leading a 100% employee-owned company through a complete turnaround—one that took engagement scores from crisis mode to elite levels, increased productivity to 99.8%, and turned a struggling manufacturing business into a cash-generating machine that now acquires other companies. Bill walks us through the leadership and execution gaps that trap so many business owners and how to build a culture where people take ownership of results. If you're struggling to get your team fully aligned, wondering how to scale leadership beyond yourself, or considering how employee ownership (ESOPs) can create long-term value, this episode is packed with insights you can apply immediately. Bill Mills is the founder of The Leadership Process™, a system designed to eliminate execution gaps and create high-performing teams. With decades of experience coaching CEOs and leadership teams, he specializes in removing friction, increasing accountability, and building cultures that drive results. His approach has helped companies scale, reduce turnover, and create a leadership pipeline that sustains growth. Chapters:
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| #430: Cash vs. Valuation: Why Entrepreneurs Get Trapped in the Wrong Financial Metrics | 27 Feb 2025 | 01:26:08 | |
I’ve spent the last handful of episodes diving deep into business valuations, M&A jargon, and how buyers think about value. But here’s the thing—most of it doesn’t matter unless you actually have cash left over at the end of the day. That’s why I brought Patrick Donohue back on the show. He and I have been in the trenches, working with owner-operators who are juggling cash flow, making sense of the noise, and trying to figure out how to actually use their business to create wealth. In this episode, we strip away the BS and focus on the fundamentals—how to manage and maximize free cash flow so you have real options as an owner. Patrick and I talk about why EBITDA is misleading, how financial jargon is designed to confuse business owners, and how to structure your company’s financials to serve your ownership goals. If you want to ensure you’re making financial decisions that actually increase your freedom—not just grow revenue for the sake of it—this episode is a must-listen.
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goal... | |||
| #429: How to Engineer Business Value: Scaling Smart, Hiring Right, and Creating Freedom with Rens Hayes | 20 Feb 2025 | 01:40:27 | |
Most business owners go through a pivotal moment—their first real look behind the curtain at how buyers value companies. For Rens Hayes, that moment came when he went through a sale and due diligence process for his father’s structural steel business. What he learned from that experience completely changed how he approached building and scaling his own company, H&O Structural Engineering. In this episode of Independence by Design™, Rens and I break down how he engineered his business for value creation, using Ken Sanginario’s Engineer’s Value Opportunity Profile (VOP) as his roadmap. Instead of scaling haphazardly, Rens built his company by systematically improving the eight functional areas that drive business valuation—the same areas buyers care about most. Rens and his partner have taken a deliberate approach to aligning cash flow, valuation timelines, and growth goals, ensuring that every dollar reinvested moves them closer to financial independence. Whether you are preparing for an eventual exit or simply want to build a business that works for you instead of the other way around, this conversation is packed with insights that will change the way you think about scaling, hiring executives, and managing risk.
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| #428: Cutting Through the Noise: Why Free Cash Flow Is the Only Metric That Matters with Ken Sanginario | 13 Feb 2025 | 01:20:13 | |
In a world full of business jargon and complicated metrics, free cash flow stands out as the foundation of value creation for both owner-operators and investors. kXVm3nQBij8 Ken Sanginario returns to focus on this core principle, unpacking the noise around financial metrics and zeroing in on sustainable free cash flow—cash available after debt, taxes, and working capital. Together, we demystify the jargon that often confuses owner-operators and show how prioritizing free cash flow is the key to growing value over time. We explore how Ken’s VOP system helps business owners identify where to place their time and reinvestment to maximize value while freeing themselves from the grind of day-to-day operations. By understanding how to measure and optimize free cash flow, owner-operators can shift from being laborers in their businesses to being true owners of a valuable asset. This episode builds on everything we’ve discussed in recent episodes—valuations, owner-operator goals, buyer goals, deal structures—and ties it to a core principle: sustainable free cash flow is the outcome of a well-run business that creates value with its time, resources, and strategy. If you’re ready to simplify the noise, focus on what matters, and start building a business that works for you, this episode is your guide. Ken Sanginario is the founder of Corporate Value Metrics and the creator of the Value Opportunity Profile (VOP), a tool that helps business owners identify where to focus their time and resources to grow sustainable value. Ken specializes in simplifying complex financial and operational concepts, empowering owners to take control of their business’s future. Chapters:
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| #427: Navigating Deal Structures: The Hidden Factors That Impact Your Net Proceeds with Dave Diehl | 06 Feb 2025 | 01:22:10 | |
Most business owners focus on the offer price when selling their business—but the deal structure is what ultimately determines how much you walk away with, when you get it, and how much risk you take on. In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Dave Diehl, CEO of Prairie Capital Advisors, to demystify the complex world of deal structures. Dave walks us through the key components of a transaction—working capital adjustments, earnouts, equity rollovers, seller financing—and how these elements impact the final proceeds for a seller. We also explore how deal structures reflect both buyer and seller goals, and why aligning these goals is critical to a successful transaction. If you’ve ever been confused by the fine print in a deal or wondered why buyers push for certain terms, this conversation will give you clarity and confidence to navigate your own transition. This episode builds on the foundations from previous episodes, diving into the practical details of how deals are structured and the hidden factors that can significantly impact your outcome. Whether you’re preparing to sell, thinking ahead, or just trying to understand what a good deal looks like, this conversation is packed with insights and actionable advice. Dave Diehl is the CEO of Prairie Capital Advisors, specializing in helping business owners navigate the complexities of M&A transactions and ESOPs. With decades of experience in deal structuring, Dave has guided countless owners through successful transitions, ensuring their goals are front and center. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turn... | |||
| #426: Understanding Buyers: How Ownership Structures Shape M&A Goals with Jeff Buettner | 30 Jan 2025 | 01:16:07 | |
Most business owners think a high offer price is the ultimate goal in selling their business—but the truth is, every buyer has their own game plan, and not all offers are created equal. In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Jeff Buettner from ButcherJoseph to explore how private equity firms, strategic buyers, and family offices approach acquisitions and structure deals to meet their goals. We break down the nuances of each buyer type, their timelines, and their financial structures so you can better understand what they value and how their goals might align (or conflict) with yours. We also discuss how to position your business for the right buyer, evaluate offers beyond the headline number, and ensure the deal you choose fits with your long-term ownership goals. If you’ve ever wondered what drives buyers’ decisions or how their priorities impact your transaction, this conversation will demystify the process. Jeff Buettner is a seasoned advisor at ButcherJoseph, specializing in helping business owners navigate the complexities of M&A transactions. With deep experience in private equity, strategic acquisitions, and family office deals, Jeff has guided countless owners through the sale process, aligning transactions with their financial and personal goals. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. <... | |||
| #425: Unlocking Business Value: Practical Tools for Growth and Ownership Goals with Ken Sanginario & John Lawlor | 23 Jan 2025 | 01:52:17 | |
As a business owner, you’ve likely heard terms like EBITDA, working capital, and Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC)—but do they feel relevant to your day-to-day decisions? In this episode, I sit down with Ken Sanginario and John Lawlor to demystify these concepts and show how they directly impact your ability to grow, scale, and transition your business. We’ll explore how to measure and grow your business’s value using actionable tools, like Ken’s Value Opportunity Profile (VOP), that connect financial performance to your ownership goals. Whether you’re thinking about selling in the next few years, stepping back from day-to-day operations, or just getting a clearer picture of your business, this conversation will help you build a roadmap for sustainable growth. This episode is packed with practical advice and relatable insights that will bridge the gap between high-level financial concepts and the operational realities you face as an owner-operator. Let’s make the numbers work for you, not the other way around. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Ken Sanginario is the founder of Corporate Value Metrics and the creator of the Value Opportunity Profile (VOP), a system designed to assess and enhance the eight functional areas of a business. With over 30 years of experience as a CPA, business advisor, and valuation expert, Ken has worked with countless owner-operators to help them unlock sustainable growth, increase equity value, and achieve their ownership goals. His practical, results-driven approach ties financial fundamentals to strategic decision-making, making him a trusted partner for business owners looking to maximize their independence. Chapters:
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| #424: Scaling for Sanity: Jimmy Fritz on Balancing Growth, Cash Flow, and Life | 16 Jan 2025 | 01:40:22 | |
Running a business often feels like juggling flaming torches—especially when cash flow, growth, and operations clash with your personal goals. Today, I sit down with Jimmy Fritz, a good friend and second-generation business owner of The Wedding Shoppe and Kennedy Blue, to unpack his journey from being entrenched in daily operations to becoming a true owner-operator. Jimmy’s experience of taking over his family’s wedding business and e-commerce brand is packed with lessons on managing growth, aligning operations with ownership goals, and achieving financial independence. Jimmy’s journey reflects what so many of us face: balancing family business dynamics, operational challenges, and the ultimate question—what's the point of all this? From chasing vanity metrics and enduring financial chaos to implementing EOS and redefining ownership, Jimmy shares the frameworks and lessons that enabled him to align his business operations with his time, cash flow, and wealth goals. You’ll hear how he weathered the pandemic, leveraged EOS, and integrated a financial roadmap to simplify decisions and drive sustainable success. Whether you’re struggling with delegation, financial forecasting, or just trying to step out of daily operations, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you design a business—and a life—that works for you. Jimmy Fritz is a second-generation entrepreneur and owner of a family-run wedding retail business and an e-commerce brand. With a passion for strategic planning and financial clarity, Jimmy has transformed his companies to align with his personal goals of time freedom and wealth creation. Through his journey, he’s mastered the art of balancing operational efficiency and long-term ownership success. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transfo... | |||
| #423: From Financial Confusion to Clarity: Unlocking the 14 Ownership KPIs with Tracy Bech | 09 Jan 2025 | 02:07:35 | |
Many business owners struggle to connect their financials to actionable insights and ownership goals. In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Tracy Bech—founder of the 60-Minute CFO and creator of a financial forecasting system that simplifies the three-statement model—to break down the 14 Ownership KPIs that every owner-operator needs to master. Together, we explore how understanding these metrics can transform decision-making, align operations with ownership goals, and empower business owners to scale sustainably while maintaining control over their financial destiny. Tracy explains why free cash flow is the ultimate metric for any business and how tying income, balance sheet, and cash flow statements into a unified model creates a clear roadmap for growth. We dive into real-world examples, practical strategies, and the mindset shifts needed to move from financial confusion to clarity, providing listeners with the tools they need to transition confidently into a true ownership role. This conversation highlights the importance of tying financial metrics to ownership goals while maintaining simplicity, offering owner-operators a clear path to operational and financial excellence. By focusing on the 14 Ownership KPIs, owners can make informed decisions, delegate effectively, and achieve long-term success. Tracy Bech is the founder of the 60-Minute CFO, a financial expert, and a business owner who has transitioned from services-based entrepreneurship to mastering the complexities of inventory-driven e-commerce. Her experience inspired her to create tools and systems that simplify financial management for owner-operators. Tracy’s approach is rooted in the belief that clarity and simplicity empower business owners to align their financial decisions with their long-term goals. Her methodologies are practical, accessible, and transformative for anyone seeking to connect financial insights to ownership success. Chapters:
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| #422: From Operator to Owner: Redefining the CEO Role with Joel Trammell | 02 Jan 2025 | 01:05:10 | |
Many business owners wrestle with understanding the CEO’s role and its connection to ownership. In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Joel Trammell—a seasoned entrepreneur who has grown and sold two companies to nine-figure exits—to break down what a CEO truly does, how the role aligns with ownership, and how owners can transition out of day-to-day operations. We explore the strategies and frameworks that enable owner-operators to scale their businesses, delegate effectively, and step fully into their ownership role by managing a CEO with confidence. Joel explains how most businesses grow to the point where almost every decision flows upward to them (the CEO), creating bottlenecks and inefficiency. He shares how to flip this dynamic by pushing decision-making downward through clear ownership goals and operational alignment. This conversation highlights how critical it is for owner-operators to shift into an ownership role where they can effectively manage the CEO and delegate responsibilities. By clarifying the CEO’s job and implementing a framework for accountability, owners can step out of operations without their business falling apart, reducing anxiety while setting up their organization for sustainable growth. Joel Trammell is a seasoned CEO, entrepreneur, and educator with a passion for helping business leaders master the art and science of the CEO role. Having built two companies to nine-figure exits, Joel now dedicates his time to coaching, writing, and teaching through his CEO Bootcamp and his platform, Managing the Future. His approach combines practical systems with first-principle thinking, empowering leaders to align their teams, set strategic objectives, and achieve long-term success. Joel’s work is a must for any owner looking to step back or scale their business sustainably. Chapters:
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| #421: Mike Michalowicz: Go All In: Unleash the Power of Ownership & Build Unstoppable Teams | 26 Dec 2024 | 00:58:15 | |
If you’ve ever read Profit First or The Pumpkin Plan, you know Mike Michalowicz delivers game-changing ideas for entrepreneurs. In this episode, we dive into his newest book, All In, and talk about the systems, frameworks, and mindset shifts you need to build a business that thrives—with or without you in the room. Mike and I tackle the biggest concerns owner-operators face:
Mike’s insights, rooted in behavioral psychology, provide a clear path to solving these challenges, showing you how small, consistent wins add up to big results. By tying these ideas into the Independence by Design™ framework, this episode will help you:
If you’re ready to stop running on the hamster wheel and go all in on building a business that delivers cash flow, equity growth, and independence, this conversation will show you the way. Mike Michalowicz is the creator of Profit First, Clockwork, and the author of 9 books, including his latest, All In. By age 35, he built and sold two multi-million-dollar companies, only to lose his fortune and start over. Now, Mike is devoted to helping entrepreneurs build healthy, strong companies through practical strategies. A keynote speaker and former Wall Street Journal columnist, Mike’s work has helped hundreds of thousands of businesses worldwide thrive. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners... | |||
| #420: Closing the Execution Gap: Systematize Your Culture & Step Back with Confidence with Bill Mills | 19 Dec 2024 | 01:35:55 | |
If you’ve ever wondered how to protect and scale your company’s culture while cutting down on friction, drama, and the “execution gaps” that keep you stuck in the weeds, this episode is for you. I sit down with Bill Mills, founder of The Leadership Process, to dive into the strategies that help owner-operators like you align your team, systematize your culture, and build a business that thrives—whether you’re in the room or not. Bill’s framework isn’t about abstract leadership theories or corporate buzzwords. It’s about practical systems that close the execution gap, reduce chaos, and embed your vision into the day-to-day habits and processes of your business. By systematizing the culture and values that make your company unique, Bill shows you how to make them scalable and sustainable. His approach ties perfectly into the Independence by Design™ framework, giving you the tools to create a business that delivers results while freeing you to step back with confidence. In this episode, we explore how to reduce the execution gap, build a high-performing team, and ensure the DNA of your culture is preserved—no matter your level of involvement. If you’re ready to move from operator to true owner without losing what makes your company special, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. Bill Mills is the founder of The Leadership Process™ and a CEO Peer Group owner for over three decades, facilitating over 1300 peer groups. His process-driven approach has helped organizations of all sizes—from manufacturing firms to service providers—turn chaotic teams into aligned, high-performing units. Bill is passionate about solving the leadership and execution gaps that hinder business growth, offering practical solutions that stick. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom | |||
| #419: From Hustle to Freedom: How to Build a Business That Runs Without You with Jean Moncrieff | 12 Dec 2024 | 01:08:27 | |
What happens when the business you thought would set you free starts to feel like a prison? In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Jean Moncreiff, a seasoned entrepreneur turned coach, to unpack the hard lessons he learned scaling businesses, juggling cash flow nightmares, and realizing he was building a job, not independence. Jean’s story is packed with insights for owner-operators who feel stuck in the daily grind, questioning if all the hustle is worth it. We dive into his pivotal realization that revenue growth alone doesn’t create freedom and why being intentional with your ownership goals is the key to creating a business—and a life—that serves you. Jean also shares how he learned to tie together strategy, cash flow, and leadership to escape the operational chaos and focus on building sustainable value. If you’ve ever wondered how to stop being owned by your business and start owning it, this episode is for you. Jean Moncrieff is an entrepreneur, coach, and advocate for intentional independence. With over 20 years of experience scaling businesses and navigating growth challenges, Jean now helps business owners align their operations with personal and financial goals. As a certified Metronomics coach, he empowers leaders to build sustainable, purpose-driven companies that provide freedom and independence. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom | |||
| #418: Walker Deibel: Buy Then Build, Acquisition Entrepreneurship, and Unlocking Wealth in the Middle Market | 05 Dec 2024 | 01:37:32 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Walker Deibel, author of Buy Then Build and founder of Acquisition Lab, to uncover the strategies that turn owner-operators into true business owners. Walker shares his expertise on how to use acquisitions to build wealth and create independence by aligning your business with your long-term personal goals. We explore why the private market offers massive opportunities for those who understand the game and how owner-operators can shift from being stuck in day-to-day operations to thinking like strategic capital allocators. This conversation dives into the actionable steps required to professionalize ownership, understand market valuations, and create options—whether you’re preparing for a sale or just looking to unlock more time and freedom. If you’re ready to elevate your ownership game and align your business strategy with long-term independence, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Walker Deibel is a best-selling author, entrepreneur, and founder of the Acquisition Lab. A pioneer in the SMB acquisition space, Walker has acquired seven companies and advised on over 100 deals. His work focuses on empowering entrepreneurs to use acquisitions as a vehicle for wealth creation and independence. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by owner-operators, Ryan developed Independence by Design™ to empower... | |||
| #417: Mastering Profitability in a Professional Services Firm with Marcel Petitpas | 28 Nov 2024 | 01:22:29 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Marcel Petitpas, a visionary in operational clarity and profitability for professional services. Marcel's journey as the CEO of Parakeeto has been marked by solving one of the most complex puzzles in professional services—mastering profitability through operational data. We explore his personal story, dive deep into the challenges of scaling service businesses, and uncover practical insights that any owner-operator can use to create scalable, profitable growth. Marcel shares actionable frameworks for understanding and improving delivery margins, aligning operations and finance, and transitioning from operator to strategic leader. Whether you’re stuck in the weeds of your agency or looking to build a business that works for you, not the other way around, Marcel’s insights will give you the clarity and tools to design independence and unlock sustainable cash flow. Marcel Petitpas is the CEO and Co-Founder of Parakeeto, a software and consulting firm that helps agencies and professional services firms improve their profitability. With a passion for financial clarity and operational excellence, Marcel has worked with businesses around the globe to align their operations and finance for sustainable growth. As the host of the Agency Profit Podcast, Marcel shares his insights with thousands of listeners every month, making him a trusted thought leader in the professional services space. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with... | |||
| #416: Behind the Curtain: How Ultra-Wealthy Families Manage Their Business Assets with Brandon Henry | 21 Nov 2024 | 01:09:37 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I have a fascinating discussion with Brandon Henry, who works closely with billionaires and ultra-high-net-worth families as part of a family office. This conversation is invaluable for owner-operators running middle-market companies, offering a glimpse into the world of sophisticated wealth management and how even the wealthiest families are navigating challenges. Brandon's insights highlight that you don’t need to have everything figured out right away, and that even those at the top are still trying to professionalize ownership and create strategic options. We explore how these ultra-wealthy families wrestle with decisions that are just as complex as those faced by smaller businesses and why professionalizing ownership isn't just for billionaires. Brandon shares the key differences between financial capital (like tax, legal, and investment strategies) and family capital (managing dynamics and decision-making), and how the best families learn to separate operating the business from owning the asset. This episode provides practical takeaways on how to think about your business as a strategic asset, improve your decision-making, and create optionality for your future. Brandon Henry is a seasoned wealth advisor and governance strategist specializing in helping ultra-high-net-worth families and first-generation entrepreneurs master the complexities of family business, estate planning, and capital allocation. With a deep understanding of financial capital and family dynamics, Brandon works at the intersection of ownership strategy and wealth management to help families achieve generational independence. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by owner-operators, Ryan developed Independence by Design™ to empower owner-operators to create sustainable cash flow, grow their company’s equity value, and achieve true independence. He has shared his insights on hundreds of stages, including Vistage, EO, and indu... | |||
| #415: Everyone Gets Punched in the Face: A Framework for Planning with Tom Walker | 14 Nov 2024 | 01:07:52 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Tom Walker, a financial strategist who’s all about connecting the big picture to the details—uncovering hidden constraints, planning for the unexpected, and transforming companies into resilient, wealth-generating assets. Tom brings a no-nonsense approach to planning, not to predict every outcome, but to create a framework that withstands the inevitable punches every business faces. We center our conversation around what it truly means to own a business that provides cash flow and equity growth, giving you the ability to make smart, clear-headed decisions regardless of market conditions. We also dive into why so many business owners get frustrated with planning, often getting tangled up in short-term thinking and daily pressures that can cloud their vision. Together, Tom and I break down the steps to building independence, including a close look at using your business as a tool for long-term wealth that doesn’t rely solely on your labor. It’s about decoupling your time from cash flow, creating a business that serves you—giving you control and flexibility, rather than the other way around. Tom Walker is a financial and economic advisor with decades of experience across agriculture, manufacturing, and family businesses, Tom specializes in helping owners move beyond the day-to-day grind to see the big picture. His approach combines strategic planning, cash flow management, and a passion for teaching others how to protect their independence. Tom’s clients value his no-nonsense perspective on what it takes to survive—and thrive—in an unpredictable economy. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons... | |||
| #414: How to Navigate a Third-Party Sale with an Investment Banker with Adam Webb | 07 Nov 2024 | 01:25:44 | |
Demystify what it means to prepare for a third-party sale and how an investment banker can be a game-changer in that process. For owners weighing their exit options, Adam shares insights on how to gauge your business’s market value from a third-party buyer’s perspective—highlighting what you need to know about valuations, strategic buyer selection, and why timing is key. We dive into the importance of building a relationship with an investment banker early, giving you a view of the market and your potential valuation while still focused on growth. Adam discusses the specific criteria buyers consider, how to differentiate between passive and active sales strategies, and why choosing the right intermediary can make or break your outcome. He explains how curated buyer lists, customized marketing materials, and understanding cash flow quality all play crucial roles in positioning your business for maximum value. If you’re ready to think strategically about a potential third-party sale—whether that’s next year or five years down the line—this episode will guide you through the details of market preparation, partner selection, and the steps that ensure your hard-earned business value is fully recognized. Adam Webb is a Partner at Quazar Capital Corporation, an investment bank specializing in M&A advisory for middle-market businesses. With years of experience and completing over 60 transactions, he helps business owners maximize their exit value selling to third-party buyers (PE Firms and Strategics). Adam has a reputation for bringing a strategic, data-driven approach to the complex M&A landscape. His insights on valuation, timing, and market positioning make him a sought-after advisor for business owners ready to take control of their futures. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the less... | |||
| #413: From GameStop to Kinko's: Gary Kusin on Building, Scaling, and Creating Legacy Businesses | 31 Oct 2024 | 01:09:12 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Gary Kusin—an entrepreneur who built some of the most recognizable brands in the world, including GameStop and Kinko’s. Gary's incredible journey, from starting Babbage’s (which became GameStop) to leading Kinko’s to a billion-dollar sale to FedEx, is packed with lessons on scaling businesses, transitioning leadership, and maintaining company culture. We explore Gary's principles of leadership, his approach to mentorship, and how he helped align operations with the ownership's goals to achieve long-term value creation. Gary dives into how he balanced entrepreneurship with large-scale corporate leadership, shares why empathy and open communication are critical, and talks about the transition from founder-led businesses to strategic ownership. If you're a business owner or operator who feels stuck in the weeds of day-to-day operations, this conversation will give you actionable steps to begin your own transformation. Gary’s experience aligns perfectly with the Independence by Design™ Framework, showing how owners can scale their businesses, create sustainable cash flow, and build a legacy without being trapped by the daily grind. Gary Kusin is a serial entrepreneur and business leader, best known for co-founding GameStop and leading Kinko's through a massive growth phase before its acquisition by FedEx. Over his career, Gary has built and scaled multiple companies, mentored countless leaders, and distilled his insights into six core leadership principles that have guided his success. His upcoming book, Always Learning, is a deep dive into the lessons he’s learned on building businesses and developing teams that thrive. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founde... | |||
| #412: Revenue Predictability & Strategic Marketing Tied to Valuation Growth with Shiv Narayanan | 24 Oct 2024 | 00:58:21 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Shiv Narayanan, founder of How to SaaS, to uncover the core strategies behind scaling a business through strategic marketing and revenue predictability. Shiv’s deep experience in the private equity space and his work with founder-led companies offers actionable insights for owners looking to make their businesses more attractive to investors—or simply run them more profitably with greater financial predictability. Shiv and I explore how aligning marketing, sales, and operations with clear, measurable KPIs can transform not only your company’s growth trajectory but also your journey from being an operator to becoming a strategic owner. We dive into how you can productize your offering, create sustainable cash flow, and maximize your company's equity value—all crucial elements of the Independence by Design™ Framework. Shiv Narayanan is the Founder and CEO of How To SaaS, a marketing strategy consulting firm specializing in helping Private Equity investors and B2B companies maximize enterprise value. As an advisor, consultant, and fractional CMO, he has generated hundreds of millions in value through innovative marketing and demand generation strategies. A two-time bestselling author, Shiv's books—*Post-Acquisition Marketing* and *Exit-Ready Marketing*—offer frameworks for PE investors and founders to enhance growth and valuation. Previously, he served as CMO of Wild Apricot, which was successfully acquired in 2018. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by owner-operators, Ryan developed Independence by Design™ to empower owner-operators to create sustainable cash flow, grow their company’s equity value, and achieve true independence. He has shared his insights on hundreds of stages, including Vistage, EO, and industry associations, and has reached over 500,000 listeners through his podcast. Ryan is passionate about helping business owners get unstuck from the day-to-day grind and design a business that serves their life, not the other way around.... | |||
| #411: Mastering the Art of Pricing: How to Charge What You’re Worth with Casey Brown | 17 Oct 2024 | 01:24:57 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with pricing expert Casey Brown, founder of Boost Pricing, to dig deep into one of the biggest pain points for business owners: pricing. Casey breaks down the psychological barriers that often keep us stuck—mainly fear—and shows how we can shift from defensive pricing to a confident, value-driven strategy. We talk about how to approach price objections, avoid unnecessary discounts, and make sure we’re getting paid what we’re worth. Casey Brown is a pricing expert and founder of Boost Pricing. With over 25 years of experience, she has helped thousands of businesses increase their profitability through smarter pricing strategies. Her focus is on empowering leaders to price confidently and capture the full value of their services. Casey is a sought-after speaker and consultant who has worked with organizations across many industries to help them stop leaving money on the table. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade... | |||
| #410: Q3 2024 Economic and M&A Update with ITR Economics, ButcherJoseph, and Walker Insights | 10 Oct 2024 | 01:40:24 | |
In this special Quarterly Economic and M&A Update, I’ve pulled together three powerful conversations to help you, the owner-operator, navigate the current economic landscape and make smarter decisions for your business. We’ll start with Brian Beaulieu from ITR Economics, who provides a detailed breakdown of inflation, interest rates, and how the economy might shift in 2025. Then, Jeff Buettner from ButcherJoseph shares critical insights into M&A trends, offering practical advice on how to position your business for growth through strategic acquisitions. Finally, I wrap up with Tom Walker, where we discuss how to manage capital effectively, handle debt, and plan for long-term wealth creation in today’s complex financial environment. Watch on YouTube Chapters:
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| #409: Where is the Money? From Services to E-Commerce: Tracy Bech’s Playbook for Understanding Cash Flow | 03 Oct 2024 | 01:35:28 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Tracy Bech, a seasoned entrepreneur who has successfully navigated running multiple companies with vastly different business models. From her first services-based business with high margins to her second venture, an inventory-based e-commerce company with a completely different cash flow model, Tracy shares her journey and the hard-earned lessons about understanding the numbers behind the business. Watch on YouTube We dive into the key steps Matt took to delegate operations, build systems, and free himself from the daily grind, ultimately allowing him to focus on long-term strategy and investing in multiple companies through his holding company, Eidolon Capital. This episode provides a clear path for business owners ready to make the transition from operator to owner, focusing on how to unlock sustainable cash flow, build equity, and design real independence—what I call the Independence by Design™ ownership mindset. Tracy Bech is a serial entrepreneur, having started, run, and sold 2 successful businesses. She is passionate about lowering the business failure rate by educating business owners and leaders about best practices and business strategy. She is also CEO at Starboard Collectives, where she facilitates groups of CEOs in niche industries. The groups share financial analyses, best practices and focus on business development. Tracy is a nationally recognized speaker on the topic of small business finance, and also conducts a women in business group in Hood River, Oregon, where she calls home. When not analyzing business ratios, Tracy is likely found on or near the water, dirt or snow, enjoying the great outdoors on boats, bikes or skis. Chapters:
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| #408: Escaping the Daily Grind: How Matt Bodnar Moved from Operator to a Capital Allocator with a Portfolio of Businesses | 26 Sep 2024 | 01:04:59 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Matt Bodnar to explore what it truly means to be an owner versus an operator. Matt’s journey—from being deeply entrenched in the day-to-day operations of his IT firm to becoming a strategic investor and capital allocator—perfectly illustrates the shift in mindset necessary to move from "doing" to "owning." Starting out by handling every detail, Matt gradually worked his way out of the operator role and learned how to structure his company to run without him. We dive into the key steps Matt took to delegate operations, build systems, and free himself from the daily grind, ultimately allowing him to focus on long-term strategy and investing in multiple companies through his holding company, Eidolon Capital. This episode provides a clear path for business owners ready to make the transition from operator to owner, focusing on how to unlock sustainable cash flow, build equity, and design real independence—what I call the Independence by Design™ ownership mindset.
Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals.... | |||
| #407: Where Does the Multiple in Business Valuations Come From (and How to Double It) with Ken Sanginario? | 19 Sep 2024 | 01:37:42 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Ken Sanginario, a top turnaround and valuation expert and creator of the Value Opportunity Profile, to dive deep into the fundamental drivers behind business valuations. We explore how the multiple in a business valuation is directly tied to the sustainability, predictability, and transferability of your cash flow—and why understanding this is the key to more than doubling the value of your company. Throughout our conversation, we unpack the often-overlooked details that can either make or break your company’s financial future. Ken breaks down critical concepts like the cost of equity, the buildup methodology, deal structures, and how reducing risk plays a major role in increasing your enterprise value. By looking at valuation from both the owner’s and buyer’s perspectives, we provide a comprehensive understanding of what truly drives value and where the multiple comes from. One of the most important takeaways is that this entire process is within your control: by reducing risk and improving operational quality, you can take actionable steps to increase the multiple applied to your business’s cash flow, doubling the value of your business giving you more freedom and options. We also explore how making your cash flow more predictable can significantly enhance your company’s potential for reinvestment, growth, or future opportunities. Additionally, Ken and I discuss the challenges of business ownership, the complexities of scaling, and how you can strategically grow your company's value. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear roadmap for taking control of your business’s financial future, with practical insights on how to create sustainable growth through the derisking process. Brandon Hall is the founder of BGH Valuation Services, LLC, is a seasoned valuation expert with over 2,000 business valuations under his belt. Based in Saint Michael, MN, Brandon holds a B.S. in Accounting from Saint Cloud State University and has extensive experience from his roles at Polaris Industries and Best Buy Corporate. A Certified Valuation Analyst® and Certified Machinery & Equipment Appraiser, Brandon is dedicated to helping businesses understand and maximize their value.[Text Wrapping Break] Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker,... | |||
| #406: The Art and Science of Business Valuations: Insights from Over 1,500 Valuations with Brandon Hall | 11 Sep 2024 | 01:17:25 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Brandon Hall, an expert who has conducted over 1,500 business valuations across a wide range of industries. We dive deep into the importance of understanding and controlling the value of your business. Brandon shares his journey from a corporate accountant to a trusted advisor in the valuation space, reflecting on the lessons he’s learned from his extensive experience, especially in working with small to medium-sized businesses. We break down the three primary valuation methods: income-based valuations (with a focus on cash flow), asset-based valuations (looking at tangible assets), and market-based valuations (comparing similar businesses in the market). I place particular emphasis on cash flow valuations, which are the most actionable and controllable by business owners like you. We discuss why understanding and managing your cash flow is crucial—not just for keeping the lights on but for driving long-term growth, strategic planning, and maximizing the equity value of your business. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of how to take charge of your business’s valuation, why cash flow is such a critical metric, and how you can use it to make informed decisions that will help you achieve the independence you’re striving for. Brandon Hall is the founder of BGH Valuation Services, LLC, is a seasoned valuation expert with over 2,000 business valuations under his belt. Based in Saint Michael, MN, Brandon holds a B.S. in Accounting from Saint Cloud State University and has extensive experience from his roles at Polaris Industries and Best Buy Corporate. A Certified Valuation Analyst® and Certified Machinery & Equipment Appraiser, Brandon is dedicated to helping businesses understand and maximize their value. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other busine... | |||
| #405: Breaking Founder Dependency: How to Assess, Recruit, and Integrate the Right CEO with Mike Frommelt | 05 Sep 2024 | 01:12:11 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Mike Frommelt, the co-founder of Strategic Talent Partners and a seasoned expert in executive search and leadership development for privately held businesses. We dive into the critical role of talent assessment and leadership development in scaling a business beyond the founder’s personal capacity. Mike shares his unique insights on how to assess a company’s leadership team, the challenges owners face when transitioning from day-to-day operations, and the importance of aligning leadership talent with ownership goals. Mike explains the differences between hiring internally versus externally, and why sometimes promoting from within isn’t always the best option. We also explore the strategic role of a CEO or president and how to identify whether someone has the capacity to think strategically and lead teams effectively. Mike's framework for evaluating leadership potential and his holistic approach to aligning talent with business goals will leave business owners equipped with actionable steps to start building a leadership team that can thrive without their constant involvement. Mike Frommelt is the is the co-founder of Strategic Talent Partners, a national executive search and leadership solutions firm. With over 20 years of experience, Mike specializes in C-level executive search and leadership development for privately held businesses. He helps companies transition from founder dependency by recruiting and integrating leadership talent aligned with ownership goals. Mike's expertise ensures organizations grow sustainably while equipping teams to thrive. Learn more at www.strategictalentpartners.com.
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission... | |||
| #404: Design a CEO Compensation Plan Tied to Your Cash Flow & Equity Valuation Goals with Craig Rutledge | 29 Aug 2024 | 01:09:32 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, Ryan Tansom is joined by Craig Rutledge, an expert in compensation strategy and the Partner at VisionLink. Craig offers valuable insights for growth-oriented business owner-operators looking to step back from daily operations and hire a CEO who can drive both cash flow and equity growth. He addresses the critical need to design compensation strategies that align the goals of the owner with those of the leadership team, ensuring that the owner can manage the company from an ownership perspective without worrying about the stability of their income from distributions or the growth of the company’s value. Craig discusses how to structure compensation plans that not only attract premier talent but also ensure that these leaders are motivated to make decisions that support sustainable cash flow and increase equity valuation. By linking short-term and long-term incentives directly to the owner’s financial goals, Craig helps owners confidently step back from the day-to-day operations, knowing their company is in good hands and positioned for growth. This episode is essential for business owners who want to replace themselves in operations while maintaining control over their financial future. Craig Rutledge is the founder of VisionLink, a leading expert in compensation strategy with over 25 years of experience. He specializes in helping business owners align their leadership teams with their financial goals through innovative compensation plans. Craig’s expertise empowers owners to step back from day-to-day operations while ensuring sustainable cash flow and equity growth. His work has guided countless companies in securing long-term success. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by owner-operators, Ryan developed Independence by Design™ to empower owner-operators to create sustainable cash flow, grow their company’s equity value, and achieve true independence. He has shared his insigh... | |||
| #403: Cash Flow Broke and Balance Sheet Rich with Eric Roman | 29 Aug 2024 | 01:07:06 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, Ryan Tansom is joined by Eric Roman, a former dentist turned entrepreneur and business coach, who shares his powerful story of building and exiting a successful dental service organization (DSO) worth $40 million. Despite his company’s impressive valuation, Eric felt cash flow broke and balance sheet rich, struggling with significant personal life issues. He believed the only way to solve his problems was to sell the business and pull the ripcord. However, after the exit, he realized that selling the business didn’t resolve the deeper issues in his personal life. Eric dives into the challenges of managing growth, the impact of business on personal life, and how implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) transformed his business. He also reflects on how he wishes he had an ownership framework like Independence by Design™ to guide him on the ownership side of decision-making, which could have provided the clarity he needed beyond the operational insights of EOS. Eric discusses the importance of having a personal operating system and how the One Life System helps entrepreneurs achieve both professional and personal success. Throughout the episode, Eric offers insights into balancing business demands with family life, the significance of personal clarity, and the necessity of having a support system to navigate the entrepreneurial journey. Eric Roman has over a decade of experience running high-powered, multi-location dental companies. From inception through exit, Eric understands all facets of what it takes to build transformational companies and, most importantly, personal joy. His breadth of expertise covers topics such as Executive team development, EOS (The Entrepreneurial Operating System), Culture Development, Managing Millennial and Post-Millennial Workforces, Developing High-Performing Associate Dentists, Work-Life Harmony, Personal Performance Habits, and much more. However, Eric's value isn't limited to his accomplishments: He has a unique ability to inspire and empower others to live abundant, impactful lives. Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the p... | |||
| #402: Tax Mitigation Strategies: Keeping More of What You Earn with Roger Roundy | 29 Aug 2024 | 00:54:36 | |
In this episode of Independence by Design™, Ryan Tansom sits down with Roger Roundy, a tax mitigation strategist with a unique approach to helping business owners keep more of their hard-earned money. Roger explains the three phases of wealth—accumulation, preservation, and distribution—and how each phase requires different tax mitigation strategies to maximize wealth. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the tax code as a set of incentives designed to encourage certain behaviors rather than something to be feared. Roger argues that when properly understood, the tax code allows business owners to legally and ethically partner with the government to reduce their tax liabilities, all while staying in compliance with audit protection. Throughout the episode, Roger shares his journey of becoming a "tax architect," detailing how his firm helps small to mid-sized businesses utilize the same tax-saving techniques employed by Fortune 500 companies. Listeners will gain insights into various tax mitigation strategies, the distinction between tax preparation and tax strategy, and how to proactively manage taxes throughout the wealth-building journey. Roger also discusses why his solutions are audit-proof, eliminate any grey areas, and show how business owners can leverage a team of advisors to optimize their financial strategy. Roger Roundy is the CEO of Strategic Associates a Risk Mitigation firm focused primarily on the education and implementation of tax mitigation strategies. Throughout his years of risk management and tax mitigation services, Roger has helped 100’s of business owners and individuals find solutions to protect their incomes from the wealth-eroding factors of risk and taxes. As the CEO and Director of Operations for Strategic Associates, Roger thrives on providing value using innovative but sound tax mitigation strategies to help his clients reduce their tax liability and provide options for properly positioning those savings. "Work hard, play harder, and provide opportunities for others to do the same" has been his M.O. during his business life. Roger has been married for 24 years and is the father to 5 wonderful children. He is an avid outdoorsman and loves to spend any spare time he can find, either biking, skiing, snowmobiling, or hunting. Life is busy, and a passion for working with other successful business owners has directed his path to tax mitigation and the extreme value and opportunity it provides to his clients.[Text Wrapping Break] Chapters:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After... | |||
| #401: Discovering the Truth About Economics & Money: Joe Brown on Inflation, Investments, and Independence | 29 Aug 2024 | 01:03:08 | |
In this inaugural episode of the Independence by Design™ podcast, Ryan Tansom sits down with Joe Brown, founder of Heresy Financial, to dive deep into the intricacies of the economy and financial systems. Driven by personal experiences and a relentless curiosity, Joe explores the mainstream financial narratives and advocates for a deeper understanding of economic fundamentals. He underscores the importance of aligning financial decisions with personal values and addressing root causes of economic issues, rather than merely treating symptoms. Watch on YouTube Key Takeaways:
In This Episode:
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| #400: Introduction to Independence by Design™ | 29 Aug 2024 | 01:01:16 | |
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. 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: 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. 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:
Ryan Tansom is a seasoned entrepreneur, speaker, and the founder of Independence by Design™, a transformative ownership framework for growth-oriented business owners. After turning around and selling his family business in an eight-figure exit, Ryan spent over a decade dissecting the lessons learned from his journey. His mission is to help other business owners avoid the pitfalls he encountered by providing them with the tools and knowledge to align their business operations with their personal and financial goals. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by owner-operators, Ryan developed Independence by Design™ to empower owner-operators to create sustainable cash flow, grow their company’s equity value, and achieve true independence. He has shared his insights on hundreds of stages, including Vistage, EO, and industry associations, and has reached over 500,000 listeners through his podcast. Ryan is... | |||