Do Diligence

Sleeping Giant Capital
  • 5.0 (1)
  • BUSINESS

Welcome to The Do Diligence Podcast where we explore how leaders make and execute their biggest decision. The Podcast is produced by Sleeping Giant Capital, where we bring together talent, capital, and capabilities to acquire and grow West Michigan businesses. Hosted by SGC’s Co-founders and Executives in Residence, this podcast offers expert opinions and M&A theories through the eyes of professionals within industry. To learn more, visit us at www.sleepinggiantcapital.com

  1. Episode 20: Private Equity vs. The Local: Inside a Debate on Ownership & Community with Maryann Feldman and Martin Kenney

    JAN 21

    Episode 20: Private Equity vs. The Local: Inside a Debate on Ownership & Community with Maryann Feldman and Martin Kenney

    In Episode 20 of the Do Diligence Podcast, Doug Lepisto sits down with Maryann Feldman and Martin Kenney, authors of "Private Equity and the Demise of the Local." They delve into a critical examination of how private equity reshapes communities and the implications of ownership on local economies. Through their research, Maryann and Martin illuminate the troubling patterns of private equity investment, showcasing how it often leads to the offshoring of jobs, diminished local control, and the erosion of community ties. They advocate for alternative investment models that prioritize local ownership and community engagement. Join them as they explore the intersection of finance, community, and the future of local economies, emphasizing the importance of place-based investment strategies as a counter to traditional private equity practices.

    45 min
  2. Episode 19: Buyer vs. Seller: Inside a Small Business Deal with Kelly Conway and Rob Elliott

    12/08/2025

    Episode 19: Buyer vs. Seller: Inside a Small Business Deal with Kelly Conway and Rob Elliott

    In Episode 19 of Do Diligence, I sit down with Kelly Conway and Rob Elliott to explore the intricate dynamics of a small business deal from both the buyer's and seller's perspectives. This episode marks a unique occasion as we bring together the insights of a buyer and seller simultaneously. Kelly, a seasoned executive, acquired Rob's company, Pondera, which specializes in leadership consulting. We delve into their experiences throughout the transaction, discussing the emotional and operational challenges they faced, the importance of communication, and the strategies they employed to foster trust. Both share valuable lessons learned during the process, including the critical role of aligning expectations and the necessity of involving key team members early on. Whether you're considering acquiring or selling a business, their insights will provide you with essential guidance for navigating these complex transactions.

    1h 4m

  3. 10/06/2025

    Episode 18: From Searcher to CEO: Lessons from Justin Murray’s Journey with SGC and SignComp

    What does it really take to leave a Fortune 500 job and become the owner-operator of a small business? In this episode of The Do Diligence Podcast, we sit down with Justin Murray — CEO of SignComp and Sleeping Giant Capital’s first CEO in Residence — for his unfiltered playbook on ETA: from personalizing outreach and reading seller motivations to handling deal curveballs, first-100-day leadership, and building a cadence for growth.

    55 min
  4. Episode 17: The Uncomfortable Truth of Family Business Transitions w/ Tom Deans

    07/29/2025

    Episode 17: The Uncomfortable Truth of Family Business Transitions w/ Tom Deans

    What really happens when a family business changes hands? In Episode 17 of The Do Diligence Podcast, I sit down with Tom Deans, author and global thought leader on family business succession, to hear his unfiltered take on succession planning — from tackling secrecy to redefining legacy.

    1h 6m
  5. Episode 16: Building Lasting Value w/ Nick Adamy

    07/17/2025

    Episode 16: Building Lasting Value w/ Nick Adamy

    In Episode 16 of Do Diligence, I sit down with Nick Adamy, owner and managing director of Adamy Valuation, to delve into the intricacies of building lasting value in businesses. We explore the fundamental differences between valuation and creating enduring value, drawing on Nick's extensive experience in business transitions. Nick shares insights on how his firm appraises companies, the challenges of predicting future cash flows, and the emotional dynamics that often accompany business transactions. We also discuss the complexities of EBITDA and the impact of external factors like the pandemic on valuations. Join us as we uncover strategies for enhancing business worth and navigating the valuation process with a clear, data-driven approach.

    1h 11m
  6. Episode 15: The Seller and Their Experience: The Decisions, The Choices and Their Emotions

    06/18/2025

    Episode 15: The Seller and Their Experience: The Decisions, The Choices and Their Emotions

    In this episode of Do Diligence, I sit down with Rick Barnett, founder of Rep-Lite and our first-ever seller on the podcast. Rick shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings and military service to building a successful hybrid talent management firm in the medical device industry. We explore the origin of Rep-Lite, the importance of grit and faith, and the hard-earned lessons from 15 years of entrepreneurship. Rick also offers a transparent look at the emotional and strategic challenges of selling a business, why he chose to partner with Sleeping Giant Capital, and what’s next in his ongoing leadership role post-sale.

    1h 1m
  7. Episode 14: CEO in Residence Revealed: The Role, The Roadmap, The Results

    04/24/2025

    Episode 14: CEO in Residence Revealed: The Role, The Roadmap, The Results

    In Episode 14 of Do Diligence, titled "CEO in Residence Revealed: The Role, The Roadmap, The Results," we dive into the unique journey of CEOs in residence, featuring Mitch and Kelly from our residency program. Join me as we explore their paths to entrepreneurship through acquisition, discussing the challenges and decisions that led them to leave corporate roles for the opportunity to buy and lead businesses. Mitch shares his passion for people leadership and his entrepreneurial spirit, while Kelly reveals her desire to impact leadership on a broader scale. We also unpack the day-to-day life within Sleeping Giant Capital's accelerator program, shedding light on the exciting opportunities in small business acquisitions. Tune in for an insightful conversation on taking control of one's career and future.

    1h 2m
  8. Episode 12: The Manufacturing Millennial With Jake Hall

    05/16/2024

    Episode 12: The Manufacturing Millennial With Jake Hall

    In today's episode, we engage in a conversation with Jake Hall, the Manufacturing Millennial and industry advocate. Jake explains how he became the Manufacturing Millennial and offers insights on how people and companies can present themselves on social media. Join us as we chat with Jake about how he is revolutionizing automation and manufacturing through digital transformation.

    49 min
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About

Welcome to The Do Diligence Podcast where we explore how leaders make and execute their biggest decision. The Podcast is produced by Sleeping Giant Capital, where we bring together talent, capital, and capabilities to acquire and grow West Michigan businesses. Hosted by SGC’s Co-founders and Executives in Residence, this podcast offers expert opinions and M&A theories through the eyes of professionals within industry. To learn more, visit us at www.sleepinggiantcapital.com

Information

  • Creator
    Sleeping Giant Capital
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Sleeping Giant Capital
  • Show Website
    Do Diligence