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 (http://www.growingebitda.com)
Advantages of Using Interim Management to Navigate Talent Shortages
Podcast hosts discuss the increasing need for interim leadership within middle-market and private equity firms to address talent shortages, offering strategies for effectively utilizing interim professionals in critical roles; this is not an interview.
10 Jun 2025
The Hidden Costs of Bad Integration Post-Acquisition
Hosts Mike McSweeney and James Bandy examine post-merger integration, spotlighting common failures like talent flight and system disruptions that impact financial performance, in this informative episode.
30 May 2025
AI Tools for Middle Market Operations - Hype vs Real Value
Mike McSweeney and James Bandy examine AI's practical uses in middle-market operations, revealing how businesses can leverage it to streamline processes and make informed decisions, while also cautioning against overhyped platforms.
13 May 2025
Cybersecurity at the Board Level: How to Address Risks and Align Strategy
In this episode of Growing EBITDA, Mike and James take a deep dive into cybersecurity at the board level—why it matters, how to communicate risks effectively, and the critical steps businesses should take to protect their operations, financials, and reputation.
They explore why cybersecurity is often overlooked at the board level, how to frame cyber discussions with investors, and what management teams can do to mitigate risks before an incident occurs. Plus, they break down the best strategies for proactive cybersecurity planning rather than just reacting when an attack happens.
Key Highlights:
• Understanding Cyber Risk: Why many mid-market companies underestimate their exposure
• The Board’s Role: How to effectively present cybersecurity concerns at the board level
• Common Misconceptions: Why cybersecurity is not just an “IT problem”
• Risk Assessments & Gap Analyses: How to evaluate vulnerabilities before a crisis
• Operational Disruptions: The real impact of cyber breaches on day-to-day business
• Cyber Playbooks: How some PE firms set clear expectations for portfolio companies
• Security Audits & Training: What’s needed to ensure ongoing cybersecurity maturity
• Incident Response Planning: How businesses should prepare for worst-case scenarios
• Sell-Side Cyber Due Diligence: Why cybersecurity is becoming a critical factor in M&A
Cyber threats aren’t just an IT problem—they’re a business risk that can impact valuation, deal flow, and overall company performance. Whether you’re a CEO, a private equity investor, or a management team member navigating your first board meeting, this episode provides actionable insights to strengthen your cybersecurity posture.
Tune in now and learn how to protect your company’s future from cyber risks.
29 Apr 2025
The First 100 Days: How Private Equity Creates Value Fast
In this episode of Growing EBITDA, Mike and James break down the critical first 100 days after a private equity firm acquires a business. What happens once the ink is dry? How do PE firms drive value quickly? And what should management teams expect in those first few months under new ownership?
They unpack the strategies, priorities, and challenges that come with the transition, offering insights for both private equity professionals and newly-backed management teams.
Highlights:
• The Speed Factor: Why the first 100 days matter in private equity
• Assessing the Business: Key financial and operational assessments post-close
• Fixing Inefficiencies: Common challenges identified and tackled early
• Aligning Leadership & Strategy: How PE firms and management teams sync up on priorities
• Operational Improvements: The low-hanging fruit that drives quick wins
• Financial Visibility: Why enhanced reporting and cash flow management are critical
• Technology & Systems: The role of ERP upgrades and process automation
• Culture & Leadership Changes: Navigating executive transitions and team alignment
If you’re a business leader, investor, or PE-backed executive, this episode provides a roadmap for successfully navigating the first 100 days and setting the foundation for long-term growth.
Listen now to learn what separates the best PE-backed transitions from the rest!
15 Apr 2025
Introduction to Value Creation Plans (VCPs) in Private Equity
In this episode of "Growing EBITDA," hosts James Bandy and Mike McSweeney dive deep into the intricacies of Value Creation Plans (VCPs) within the private equity landscape. They share their expert insights on how VCPs serve as strategic frameworks to drive growth, enhance operational efficiency, and maximize enterprise value. From defining what a VCP is to discussing its core components and execution strategies, this episode is packed with valuable information for business leaders, private equity professionals, and consulting clients. Tune in to learn about the importance of alignment among stakeholders, the role of strategic planning, and practical tips for successful VCP implementation.
Follow Mike McSweeney (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmcsweeney/) & James Bandy (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbandy/) on LinkedIn
Learn more about TriVista (https://www.trivista.com/)
Highlights:
Introduction and background of the deal
Importance of Value Creation Plans in private equity
Core components of VCPs
Differences between strategic plans and VCPs
Role of the CEO and management team in VCPs
Collaboration between private equity firms and management teams
Tactical and strategic elements of VCPs
Long-term goals and operational improvements
Importance of regular updates and accountability
Practical tips for VCP implementation
Tying VCPs to EBITDA growth
Closing thoughts and key takeaways
1 Apr 2025
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 efficiency
Whether 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.
18 Mar 2025
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 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmcsweeney/) & James Bandy (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbandy/) on LinkedIn
Learn more about TriVista (https://www.trivista.com/)
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
4 Mar 2025
Tariffs Are Reshaping Private Equity Deals – Are You Ready?
Episode Title: Tariffs & M&A: Navigating Uncertainty in 2025
In 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 (https://trivista.com/).
18 Feb 2025
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 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmcsweeney/) & James Bandy (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbandy/) on LinkedIn
Learn more about TriVista (https://www.trivista.com/)
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
4 Feb 2025
PSA Inadequate ERP Systems Impact the Bottom Line
In this episode of "Growing EBITDA," hosts Mike McSweeney and James Bandy dive into a critical issue affecting businesses of all sizes: inadequate ERP systems. With a touch of dry humor, they explore how these outdated systems can significantly impact your bottom line, from operational inefficiencies to financial mismanagement. Tune in to hear real-world examples, insightful discussions, and practical advice on how to identify and address ERP inadequacies in your organization. Whether you're a business leader, private equity professional, or consulting client, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you drive growth and operational efficiency.
Follow Mike McSweeney (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmcsweeney/) & James Bandy (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbandy/) on LinkedIn
Learn more about TriVista (https://www.trivista.com/)
Highlights:
Introduction and the importance of addressing inadequate ERP systems
Common inadequacies in ERP systems across various business verticals
The impact of inadequate ERPs on operational costs and efficiency
Real-world examples of ERP-related challenges and their financial implications
The role of ERP systems in supply chain management and M&A transactions
Strategies for improving ERP systems and reducing operational risks
The link between ERP systems and cybersecurity risks
Final thoughts and actionable advice for business leaders
21 Jan 2025
Benefits of ERP Systems for Middle Market Companies
In this episode of "Growing EBITDA," hosts Mike McSweeney and James Bandy dive into the transformative power of ERP systems for middle-market businesses. They discuss the significant efficiency gains, revenue growth, and strategic advantages that come with upgrading or enhancing ERP systems. With a blend of professional insights and a touch of dry humor, they explore real-world examples and share practical advice for business leaders, private equity professionals, and consulting clients. Tune in to learn how to drive growth and operational efficiency in your organization.
Follow Mike McSweeney (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmcsweeney/) & James Bandy (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbandy/) on LinkedIn
Learn more about TriVista (https://www.trivista.com/)
Highlights:
Introduction and theme song banter
Benefits of enhancing or changing an ERP system
Efficiency gains and revenue lifts from ERP systems
Trade-offs and investments required for ERP upgrades
The TMR triangle: Time, Money, Resources
Driving strategic growth with ERP systems
Project depaperization: A case study
Revenue growth through improved customer service
Scalable growth and finding the right ERP partner
Financial benefits and cost reductions
Data-driven decision-making and real-time data access
Advanced analytics and visualization tools
Customer and supplier impact of ERP systems
Risks of not upgrading ERP systems
Digital transformation and future trends
7 Jan 2025
Understanding ERP Systems
In this episode of "Growing EBITDA," hosts James Bandy and Mike McSweeney dive into the world of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems and their critical role in driving middle-market growth. From operational efficiency to scalability, they explore the key benefits and challenges of implementing and upgrading ERP systems. With a touch of dry humor, they share real-life anecdotes and expert insights to help business leaders, private equity professionals, and consulting clients navigate the complexities of ERP systems. Tune in to learn how to optimize your business processes and make informed decisions about your ERP investments.
Follow Mike McSweeney (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmcsweeney/) & James Bandy (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbandy/) on LinkedIn
Learn more about TriVista (https://www.trivista.com/)
Highlights:
Introduction to ERP Systems
Common Questions About ERP Upgrades
Operational Bottlenecks and Challenges
New Technology and System Integration
User Inefficiencies and Training
Cost Considerations and Financial Benefits
Selecting the Right ERP System
Common Challenges in ERP Implementation
Funny ERP Stories
10 Dec 2024
Cybersecurity: Protecting Your Digital Assets
Mike and James discuss the growing importance of cybersecurity for middle-market companies, sharing insights and practical steps to protect digital assets from cyber threats.
10 Dec 2024
The Importance of IT Due Diligence in M&A
TriVista's James Bandy and Mike McSweeney discuss the critical role of IT due diligence in private equity investments, uncovering hidden risks and influencing deal valuation.
27 Nov 2024
An Origin Story...
Entrepreneurs Michael Roessle & Alex Reneau share the origin story behind their EBITDA growth strategy, revealing the key insights that fueled their company's rapid expansion.
26 Nov 2024
Cybersecurity: Protecting you Digital Assets
Cybersecurity experts Mike and James share practical steps for middle-market companies to protect themselves from cyber threats and safeguard their digital assets in the face of growing cybercrime.
12 Jul 2024
Episode 2: The importance of IT Due Diligence in M&A
Join Mike and James as they dive deep into the crucial world of IT diligence, especially tailored for our listeners interested in private equity investments. Discover the pivotal role IT diligence plays in assessing risks and securing benefits, along with the profound long-term impacts it can have on a business's success. They'll break down the key components, from evaluating technology systems and infrastructure to understanding cybersecurity standards. Plus, get insights into the history and evolution of IT diligence and why it's more important than ever in today's rapidly changing business environment.
12 Jul 2024
Episode 1: Cybersecurity: Protecting your digital assets
In this episode, we dive deep into cybersecurity. We'll explore the common threats and challenges your business might face and share practical tips on safeguarding your digital assets and revenue against cyber-attacks. Stay tuned!
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
967
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.9 / 5
11 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 54 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
49
Social presence
0
YouTube
66
Engagement
85
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