32 | Partnering with Private Equity: A New Vision for Private Equity in Home Services with John Cerasuolo from Leap Service Partners

Podcast Episode Title: 

Partnering with Private Equity: A New Vision for Private Equity in Home Services with John Cerasuolo from Leap Service Partners

Episode Number: 32

Date: April 29, 2024

Duration: 36:41

Host: Justin Deese 

Website: JustinDeese.com

Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

Guest: John Cerasuolo

Email: john.cerasuolo@theleappartners.com

Website: Leapservicepartners.com 

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese interviews John Cerasuolo, the CEO of Lead Partners, a private equity company. John shares his background in the military and how it shaped his understanding of leadership. He also discusses the importance of culture in the home service industry and how Leap focuses on building strong partnerships with business owners. John emphasizes the need for alignment and trust when considering a private equity-backed venture and advises business owners to prepare for an exit well in advance. He encourages listeners to reach out and connect with him for more information.

Takeaways

The military provides a valuable leadership laboratory and teaches the importance of good leadership in delivering results.

When considering a private equity-backed venture, it is crucial to partner with a company that shares your vision and values.

Culture is a key factor in the success of a home service business, and Leap focuses on building strong partnerships and providing support to its partners.

Preparing for an exit should be done well in advance, and business owners should seek to maximize the value of their business before considering a sale.

Transparency and open communication are essential in building trust and successful partnerships.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and John's Background

03:47 The Importance of Leadership

07:49 The Role of Culture in Home Service Businesses

10:38 Finding Alignment and Trust in Partnering with a Private Equity Firm

26:17 Leap Partners: Focusing on Small Businesses for Partnership

33:37 Collaboration and Networking in the Home Service Industry

36:01 Outro

Keywords

private equity, PE Groups, leadership, culture, home service industry, partnership, alignment, trust, exit strategy, Leap Service Partners, John Cerasuolo, Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse