Going Beyond the Deal

J. Michael Fischer Jr | DBD Investment Bank
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Welcome to Going Beyond The Deal. The show for founders, business owners, and professionals who want to grow smarter, achieve bigger exits, and build a legacy that lasts. Your host is no other than, J. Michael Fischer Jr – connector, life-long student of personal growth, and Managing Director at DBD – a bespoke investment bank that helps businesses handle big financial moves. Each week, we look beyond the numbers and the deals to talk about what really drives success. You'll hear from entrepreneurs, strategists, and top performers about the mindset, habits, and decisions that help businesses — and people — keep moving forward. If you're getting ready to sell, raise capital, or just level up — you're in the right place.

  1. 2D AGO

    24 | Why Your 40s Might Be Your Most Important Decade Yet

    What if your greatest opportunity for growth starts the moment your comfort zone ends? In this powerful solo episode, J. Michael Fischer, Jr. shares a raw, personal reflection on how personal development transformed not just his career but his identity. From working as a janitor and rebuilding alternators to becoming Managing Director at a bespoke investment bank, Michael reveals the pivotal mindset shifts that helped him rewrite his life in his 40s. You’ll hear how COVID offered a catalyst, why he traded a cushy salary for entrepreneurship, and the honest truth about what it takes to design your “Second Half Playbook.” If you’re coasting in a career that no longer excites you, this episode is your urgent wake-up call. Hit play now to discover why the second half of your life deserves your boldest moves and why the cost of delay is steeper than you think. Mentioned ResourcesMichael’s “Second Half Playbook” article on LinkedInTony Robbins' podcast on midlife transformation Important LinksFollow my blog here: https://rebrand.ly/7e3544 Book a call with us: https://rebrand.ly/dbd-investment-47fca2 Going Beyond the Deal is an original podcast brought to you by Michael J. Fischer and Podcast Your Brand. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

    11 min

  2. SEP 23

    23 | Amos Bar Joseph | How to Leverage AI for 100x Business Growth

    What if the future of business isn’t just about hiring more people, but about creating organizations where humans and AI collaborate to unlock 100x growth? In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal Podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. speaks with Amos Bar Joseph, co-founder and CEO of Swan AI, a company building AI agents designed to transform go-to-market operations for modern businesses. Amos shares how his childhood in a scientific community and his early career in game theory shaped his approach to problem-solving, entrepreneurship, and building companies that scale intelligently rather than just adding headcount. From founding and selling two startups, including one that worked with major airlines worldwide, to pioneering the concept of an “autonomous business,” Amos explains why companies of the future will empower employees to work in their zone of genius while AI handles the repetitive, mundane tasks. This episode dives into AI adoption, organizational culture, mental health, and the radical ways technology is reshaping business. Learn why ruthless prioritization and self-care are the keys to thriving as an entrepreneur in the AI era. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!  Enjoy! Key takeaways: Why AI is one of the most intuitive technologies ever created, and how to embrace it in your businessHow to identify and operate within your “zone of genius”Why the future of work is about autonomy and vision alignment, not bureaucracyHow Amos scaled Swan to over 200 customers with a three-person founding teamThe mental habits that help entrepreneurs avoid burnoutWhy marketing is about emotions, not just analyticsHow AI agents can 100x the effectiveness of every employeeAnd much more… Guest Bio: Amos Bar Joseph is the co-founder and CEO of Swan AI, a company on a mission to build the first truly autonomous business by leveraging AI agents to transform go-to-market operations. An entrepreneur at heart, Amos previously founded and sold two tech companies. A graduate of Tel Aviv University’s PPE honors program, he is passionate about game theory, entrepreneurship, and helping businesses scale with intelligence rather than headcount. Resources: Connect with Michael on LinkedIn  DBD Investment Bank Connect with Amos on LinkedIn  Subscribe to The Big Shift Newsletter Disclaimer:  The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Going Beyond the Deal podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By...

    46 min

  3. SEP 16

    22 | Chase Ramey | How to Transition from Corporate to Startup Life

    What would make someone leave a high-paying Big Four accounting career, take a 50% pay cut, and join a four-person startup with no systems in place? And how do you grow that business into a globally recognized health and wellness brand? In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal Podcast, host J. Michael Fischer Jr. sits down with Chase Ramey, CFO of Organifi, a purpose-driven supplement company known for its high-quality, efficacious products. Chase shares how burnout early in his career pushed him to reevaluate his path, leading him to Organifi, where he rebuilt his health, career, and personal life while helping scale the company from a tiny office in San Diego to a brand trusted worldwide. Chase reflects on the lessons learned from Deloitte, why personality and people skills matter more than technical complexity, and the challenges of balancing a visionary founder’s big ideas with the financial realities of a bootstrapped business. He also discusses building a life connected to nature, working alongside his wife, and putting priorities in the right order so that career supports life, not the other way around. Thinking about leaving corporate life for something more meaningful? Learn how Chase made the leap and why it paid off. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!  Enjoy! Key takeaways: Why burnout can be the catalyst for finding purpose and alignmentHow Chase went from Deloitte to Organifi and why he took a massive pay cutThe importance of learning to manage risk and cash flow Why novelty and routine together create long-term fulfillmentHow Organifi has scaled without outside capital while staying true to its missionWhy lifestyle choices matter more than supplements and how to use them to fill the gapsHow to prioritize relationships and health while building a successful careerThe power of listening to your intuition and acting on small nudgesAnd much more… Guest Bio: Chase Ramey is the CFO of Organifi, a leading health and wellness company dedicated to creating high-quality, efficacious supplements. With a background in accounting at Deloitte, Chase combines financial expertise with operational strategy to help scale Organifi without outside capital.  Resources: Connect with Michael on LinkedIn  DBD Investment Bank Connect with Chase on LinkedIn Follow Chase on Instagram Organifi  TheMedicin  Disclaimer:   The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Going Beyond the Deal podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness,...

    59 min

  4. SEP 9

    21 | Reggie Ford | How to Create Impact by Being Your Authentic Self

    What happens when you achieve everything you thought would bring happiness — and still feel empty? In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal Podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. sits down with Reggie Ford, a TEDx speaker, bestselling author of Perseverance Through Severe Dysfunction, and founder of the Vulnerability Muscle framework. Reggie shares his extraordinary journey from growing up in poverty and chaos to building a successful career in finance, only to realize that money alone couldn’t solve the deepest challenges. Through raw honesty and powerful insights, Reggie opens up about grief, shame, and the breaking point that led him to redefine his life. He explains how vulnerability became his greatest strength, why storytelling matters, and how he helps others build resilience, self-awareness, and purpose. This conversation is about much more than success; it’s about learning to love yourself, heal from pain, and create impact by being authentic. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!  Enjoy! Key takeaways: Why money only solves money problems, and what really drives fulfillmentThe importance of checking in with yourself and others to prevent burnoutHow compartmentalizing emotions can help you survive — and why it eventually breaks downWhy sharing your story can transform shame into connectionHow vulnerability builds stronger relationships and makes you a better leaderThe pervasive belief that “we are not enough”, and how to reframe itPractical strategies for gratitude, self-talk, and living with more love and purposeAnd much more… Guest Bio: Reggie Ford is a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. His bestselling book, Perseverance Through Severe Dysfunction, is a powerful memoir about trauma, healing, and the journey from pain to peace. As the founder of the Vulnerability Muscle framework, Reggie helps corporate leaders and organizations build emotionally intelligent cultures rooted in trust, resilience, and psychological safety. He is also the host of the Vulnerability Muscle podcast, where leaders and changemakers open up about what it means to lead with heart. Resources: Connect with Michael on LinkedIn  DBD Investment Bank ReggiedFord.com  Connect with Reggie on LinkedIn  Follow Reggie on Instagram Follow Reggie on Facebook Follow Reggie on X Vulnerability Muscle with Reggie D. Ford Podcast Reggie’s Book: Perseverance Through Severe Dysfunction: Breaking the Curse of...

    1h 5m

  5. SEP 2

    20 | Blake Balsamo | How to Avoid Burnout While Reinventing Your Career

    What does it take to walk away from a secure, successful career in commercial banking to pursue something entirely new? In this episode of Going Beyond the Deal podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. speaks with Blake Balsamo, Executive Director, Americas at i2i Logic. Blake shares how he transitioned from being one of New Jersey’s most well-known commercial bankers to helping transform the way bankers and clients interact through data-driven insights. From the challenges of leaving behind stability to embrace uncertainty, to his vision for the future of commercial banking in an AI-driven world, Blake offers an insightful look at risk-taking, reinvention, and why being “comfortable with being uncomfortable” is the key to growth. Hear why Blake believes generative AI will reshape the future of banking and how to prepare for it today. If you've enjoyed this episode of Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!  Enjoy! Key takeaways: Why Blake chose to leave a successful career in commercial banking to join i2i LogicThe role of mentors and trusted advisors in making career-defining decisionsWhy every banker should start in risk managementThe frustrations clients face with repetitive banking pitches, and how to break that cycleHow i2i Logic helps bankers create deeper, more meaningful conversations with clientsThe impact of generative AI on the future of banking and client relationshipsWhy mentors, habits, and hobbies are essential to avoiding burnout and staying effectiveAnd much more… Guest Bio: Blake Balsamo is the Executive Director, Americas at i2i Logic, a fintech company transforming how bankers engage clients through data and insights. A former top commercial banker in New Jersey, Blake built his career at institutions like Citibank, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan Chase before taking the leap into fintech. Resources: Connect with Blake on LinkedIn  i2i Logic  Connect with Michael on LinkedIn  DBD Investment Bank Book Mentioned: The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About  Disclaimer:  The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Going Beyond the Deal podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to...

    52 min

  6. AUG 26

    19 | Abe Kasbo | How to Make Better Marketing Decisions Today

    How do you build a brand in the digital age without falling for hype, gimmicks, or empty metrics? In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, host J. Michael Fischer Jr. sits down with Abe Kasbo, marketing strategist, entrepreneur, and author of the upcoming book Irresponsibly Digital, to unpack what’s really working in marketing today. With over two decades of experience leading successful campaigns and advising top-tier brands, Abe brings a rare blend of insight, candor, and hard-earned wisdom. From his immigrant roots to leading a business built on clarity and strategy, Abe’s journey is rich with lessons in resilience, authenticity, and disciplined thinking. He shares how relying on instinct has often served him better than overthinking, why the American brand still holds unmatched global influence, and how marketers can stop “dropping bombs” and start asking smarter questions. Whether you're a business owner, marketing leader, or someone who simply wants to make better decisions in a noisy world, this episode is packed with real talk and valuable perspective. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!  Enjoy! Key takeaways: Why strategic prioritization beats scattered, unfocused marketing effortsHow Abe uses instinct and experience to guide high-stakes decisionsWhat makes the American brand so globally powerfulWhy some marketing works—and some simply doesn’tThe problem with “marketing bombs” and one-size-fits-all tacticsHow to be more self-critical without being self-destructiveWhy getting into the weeds is essential to truly serving your clientsHow Abe’s immigrant experience shaped his grit and perspectiveAnd much more… Guest Bio: Abe Kasbo is the Founder and CEO of Verasoni, a marketing communications advisory and agency serving Fortune 500, middle-market, and startup clients worldwide. He advises C-Suite executives on branding, communications, and public relations, and has been featured in major outlets including The New York Times, Forbes, and PBS. Abe is also the producer and director of the acclaimed PBS documentary The Arab Americans and the author of the upcoming book Irresponsibly Digital. Resources: Connect with Michael on LinkedIn  DBD Investment Bank Irresponsibly Digital  Verasoni  Connect with Abe on LinkedIn Disclaimer:  The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Going Beyond the Deal podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a...

    55 min

  7. AUG 19

    18 | George Alifragis | How to Leverage Private Credit for Business Growth

    What if financing your business didn’t feel like being capped by traditional bank constraints or compromising majority control and equity? In this insightful episode of Going Beyond the Deal, J. Michael Fischer sits down with George Alifragis to explore how private credit is reshaping the world of business financing. George opens up about his personal entrepreneurial journey and how that experience shaped his view on capital, optionality, and work-life integration. He explains why certain private credit partners offer more than just funding—it provides flexibility, operational support, and relationship-driven growth partnerships. Whether you’re a founder preparing for expansion or simply rethinking your financing strategy, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and inspire new perspectives. If your 2025 strategy includes growth, optionality, and smart partnerships, don’t miss what’s coming next. Also, if you've enjoyed this episode of Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!  Enjoy! Key takeaways: Why private credit is gaining ground as the future of financingThe difference between traditional lending and relationship-driven private creditWhen private credit is most impactful, particularly as true growth capitalHow to create optionality for your business and protect your equityWhy entrepreneurs should plan to "make plan"—not just hope for outcomesHow George views work-life integration instead of balanceThe mindset shift needed to enjoy and grow through your work hoursWhy authenticity and fulfillment are critical to personal and professional successAnd much more… Guest Bio: George Alifragis is the Senior Vice President at Metropolitan Partners Group, bringing nearly two decades of experience as a trilingual revenue leader, GTM operator, and award-winning partnerships strategist. Throughout his career, he has consistently exceeded growth objectives, delivering transformative results across industries. George is known for his data-driven approach to strategic planning, scaling and his expertise in business development, brand building, ecosystem growth, and cross-functional collaboration. With a passion for helping founders grow, build optionality, preserve equity, and thrive both professionally and personally, George stands out as a top-tier communication, thought leader and innovation driver in the world of private credit and beyond.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Resources: Connect with J. Michael Fischer Jr. on LinkedIn  DBD Investment Bank Connect with George on LinkedIn Disclaimer:  The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Going Beyond the Deal podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a...

    50 min

  8. AUG 12

    17 | TJ Bongiorno | How to Turn ADHD into an Entrepreneurial Advantage

    What happens when a high-performing sales engineer with ADHD launches a nootropics company from scratch and actually makes it work? In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. sits down with TJ Bongiorno, founder of Ramp Health, for a dynamic and wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, brain performance, personal development, and building a business that aligns with who you truly are. From selling knockoff sneakers in Queens to launching a science-backed supplement brand while raising a toddler, TJ’s story is equal parts hustle, experimentation, and purpose. You’ll hear how he bootstrapped his startup with just a presale and a Shopify store, what nootropics actually are (and how to use them), and why he believes launching a business is the fastest path to self-actualization. Whether you're a founder, biohacker, or professional chasing your next level, this episode is packed with real talk and actionable gems. Curious how a nootropics founder with ADHD bootstrapped a supplement brand while raising a toddler? TJ Bongiorno shares how he turned his brain chemistry into a business advantage and built Ramp Health from a presale and a purpose. Tune in to hear how entrepreneurship can become the most powerful tool for self-awareness, resilience, and legacy. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!  Enjoy! Key takeaways: How TJ went from selling fake sneakers to launching a health brandTJ’s lean approach to testing a business idea with just $12K in presalesWhat nootropics are, how they work, and how to use them safelyHow TJ turned ADHD into an entrepreneurial advantageWhat entrepreneurship taught TJ about himself and the impostor syndromeHow to test a business idea in under 30 minutes with AI and $25 in adsWhat legacy means to a founder balancing business, fatherhood, and purposeAnd much more… Guest Bio: TJ Bongiorno is the founder of Aurenza and Ramp Health, a nootropics and wellness brand focused on performance, clarity, and harm reduction. With a background in sales engineering and tech, TJ bootstrapped his supplement company while raising a toddler and working full-time. Diagnosed with ADHD, he’s on a mission to help professionals unlock their cognitive edge through evidence-backed formulas. TJ shares his entrepreneurial journey transparently on social media and is building not just a business, but a legacy for his family and future generations. Resources: Connect with Michael on LinkedIn  DBD Investment Bank Ramp Health Connect with TJ on LinkedIn  Follow TJ on X Follow Ramp Health on Instagram Disclaimer:  The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Going Beyond the Deal podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and...

    51 min
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About

Welcome to Going Beyond The Deal. The show for founders, business owners, and professionals who want to grow smarter, achieve bigger exits, and build a legacy that lasts. Your host is no other than, J. Michael Fischer Jr – connector, life-long student of personal growth, and Managing Director at DBD – a bespoke investment bank that helps businesses handle big financial moves. Each week, we look beyond the numbers and the deals to talk about what really drives success. You'll hear from entrepreneurs, strategists, and top performers about the mindset, habits, and decisions that help businesses — and people — keep moving forward. If you're getting ready to sell, raise capital, or just level up — you're in the right place.

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  • Creator
    J. Michael Fischer Jr | DBD Investment Bank
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    Copyright © 2025 DBD Partners LLC
  • Show Website
    Going Beyond the Deal