Growing EBITDA is the ultimate podcast for middle-market business leaders who want to scale profits, optimize operations, and unlock growth. Packed with actiona...
Warehouse Optimization, Hidden Costs, and Laying the Foundation for Improvements
In this episode of Growing EBITDA, Mike and I sit down with James Lowe, a Director at TriVista, to explore the fundamentals of warehouse optimization. We break down how optimizing warehouse operations can significantly reduce costs, improve efficiency, and drive top-line growth.James shares insights from his 13+ years of experience in supply chain and warehousing, discussing hidden costs, process inefficiencies, and best practices for leveraging technology, automation, and strategic warehouse design.Key topics covered:• Identifying inefficiencies and hidden costs in warehouse operations• How warehouse optimization impacts the bottom line• The role of technology in streamlining warehouse management• The importance of inventory control and process standardization• Practical steps for improving warehouse efficiencyWhether you’re leading a distribution-heavy business, a manufacturer, or a private equity-backed portfolio company, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you optimize your warehouse operations and drive EBITDA growth.Stay tuned for our next episode, where we dive deeper into advanced optimization strategies and the impact of AI and automation on the future of warehousing.Listen now and start unlocking the full potential of your warehouse operations.
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Sell Side Due Diligence
In this episode of "Growing EBITDA," hosts Mike McSweeney and James Bandy dive into the intricacies of sell-side due diligence, a crucial process for business leaders, private equity professionals, and consulting clients. They discuss the importance of preparing a business for sale, the benefits of conducting thorough due diligence, and how it can maximize exit value. With a focus on middle-market growth, M&A, and operational efficiency, this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for anyone involved in the transaction advisory business. Tune in to learn about the key components of sell-side diligence, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to ensure a smooth exit process. Follow Mike McSweeney & James Bandy on LinkedIn Learn more about TriVista Highlights: Introduction to Sell-Side Due Diligence Importance of Preparing for Sale Key Components of Sell-Side Diligence Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them Ensuring a Smooth Exit Process Real-Life Examples and Case Studies Closing Thoughts and Final Tips
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Tariffs Are Reshaping Private Equity Deals – Are You Ready?
Episode Title: Tariffs & M&A: Navigating Uncertainty in 2025In this episode of Growing EBITDA, Mike McSweeney and James Bandy break down the impact of tariffs on middle-market businesses and private equity. They discuss how shifting trade policies are affecting supply chains, deal structures, and valuation models, creating uncertainty for investors and operators alike.With tariffs reshaping cost structures and market dynamics, the hosts explore how businesses can hedge against risk, leverage technology, and implement sourcing strategies to maintain stability. Whether you’re a business owner, private equity professional, or operator, this episode provides key insights into managing EBITDA growth in a turbulent economic landscape.Highlights:• Introduction: How tariffs are disrupting budgets and dealmaking in 2025• Private Equity & M&A: How investors are adjusting valuation models• Creative deal structuring: Holdbacks, contingency pricing, and earnouts• Supply chain impacts: Nearshoring, reshoring, and alternative sourcing strategies• ERP & data visibility: How technology helps businesses manage tariff risks• Lessons from past disruptions: What COVID-19 and past trade wars taught us• Trivia question of the week: Who is the largest trading partner of the U.S.?Follow Mike McSweeney & James Bandy on LinkedIn.Learn more about TriVista.
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An Introduction to Private Equity
In this insightful episode of "Growing EBITDA," hosts James Bandy and Mike McSweeney take a deep dive into the world of private equity. They share their personal journeys from industry into the to private equity world, offering listeners a unique perspective on the intricacies of the private equity ecosystem. From understanding the basics of private equity to exploring the operational strategies that drive growth, this episode is packed with valuable insights for business leaders, private equity professionals, and consulting clients. Tune in to learn about the role of private equity in the middle-market, the importance of operational efficiency, and the strategies for successful M&A. Follow Mike McSweeney & James Bandy on LinkedIn Learn more about TriVista Highlights: Introduction to Private Equity James Bandy's Journey into Private Equity Mike McSweeney's Early Career and Consulting Business Understanding the Private Equity Business Model Operational Strategies and Value Creation The Role of Private Equity in the US Economy Common Misconceptions about Private Equity Closing Thoughts and Quick Hits
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PSA: Inadequate ERP Systems Impact the Bottom Line
In this episode of “Growing EBITDA,” Mike McSweeney and James Bandy deliver a crucial Public Service Announcement (PSA) on the hidden costs of inadequate ERP systems and their impact on the bottom line.With their signature blend of expert insights and dry humor, the hosts dive into how outdated or underperforming ERP systems can cripple operations, escalate costs, and even affect M&A valuations. They share real-world anecdotes on operational inefficiencies, costly supply chain issues, and the risks of financial mismanagement—all stemming from inadequate ERP investments. Plus, they discuss strategies to mitigate these risks and optimize ERP systems to support long-term growth.Highlights:• Introduction and PSA: Why inadequate ERPs are a silent drain on your bottom line• Operational impacts: How ERP failures lead to overspending and inefficiencies• Financial risks: Customer dissatisfaction, bad data, and inflated costs• Supply chain disruption: Stockouts, excess inventory, and poor procurement practices• M&A consequences: Lower valuations and deal-killing ERP risks• Cybersecurity concerns: Legacy systems and threat vectors• Scaling challenges: Why inadequate ERPs stifle growth and hinder integrations• Data-driven decision-making: The importance of clean data for future growth• ERP failure rates: Sobering stats and why boards hesitate to upgrade
Growing EBITDA is the ultimate podcast for middle-market business leaders who want to scale profits, optimize operations, and unlock growth. Packed with actionable strategies, real-world case studies, and expert insights, each episode provides tools to master M&A, streamline processes, and maximize value.Ready to grow your business? Subscribe, listen, and explore more at www.growingebitda.com
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