M&A+: The Art After The Deal podcast

Lisa Scott
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Welcome to "M&A+: The Art After the Deal," the podcast that delves into the dynamic world of mergers and acquisitions, where strategy meets execution. I'm your host, Lisa Scott, guiding you through insightful conversations with M&A thought leaders and industry experts. Join us as we unravel the complexities, challenges, and success stories that shape the ever-evolving landscape of mergers and acquisitions. Brought to you by Intuitive Edge, the go-to elite legal services provider that's revolutionizing how corporations streamline contract review and transition during divestitures or acquisitions.  At Intuitive Edge, we're not just about transactions; we're about fostering relationships, extracting value, and ensuring efficiency in every transition endeavor. Our goal is to simplify complexity, and this podcast serves as an extension of our commitment to excellence.To learn more, visit:  https://in2edge.com/

  1. 30 OCT.

    AI, Law & the Deal: Rob Taylor on Risk, IP, and Post-Merger Reality

    AI isn’t just a buzzword in deal rooms—it’s changing how due diligence, contracts, privacy, and integration actually work after close. In this episode, Lisa sits down with tech lawyer Rob Taylor to unpack what “AI risk” really means, why lawyers must understand the technology to spot legal exposure, and how companies can move fast and responsibly. Rob shares practical frameworks from hundreds of AI solution reviews, dives into agentic AI (and why risk goes up when the human leaves the loop), and explains common contract myths—like over-relying on vendor indemnities. What You’ll Learn Why real AI risk assessment starts with understanding the tech (data flows, inputs/outputs, model behavior)How to scope AI due diligence in M&A: model licensing, data rights, bias testing, and post-close liabilityAgentic AI vs. “plain” generative AI—and what that means for governance and oversightThe truth about indemnities in AI contracts (and why deployers still carry duties)Copyright & IP in AI-generated works—what’s unsettled and how to think about ownership todayPractical first steps to adopt AI responsibly without over-engineeringKey Takeaways Tech first, then law: If you don’t understand the architecture and data flows, you’ll miss the legal risk.Human-in-the-loop matters: As systems become more agentic and autonomous, oversight must increase.DD for AI is specific: Go beyond licenses—probe training data, testing for bias, monitoring, and downstream use.Indemnity ≠ immunity: Deployers still have duties to prevent harms; don’t outsource responsibility.IP is evolving: Treat AI like a tool—document meaningful human direction and edits.Connect Rob Taylor, JD: LinkedIn; Carstens, Allen & Gourley LLP; NXTSolveIn2Edge: Post-acquisition integration, contract management, and hands-on transition execution. Learn more at In2Edge.com.If today’s conversation hit home—especially around AI-heavy diligence or integration—follow and share M&A+: The Art After the Deal. And if you’re navigating a complex transition, In2Edge can help you turn strategy into working systems. To learn more, visit: https://in2edge.com/

    49 min

  2. 2 OCT.

    From DOJ to Digital Assets: Joshua Smeltzer on Deals, Courts & Crypto

    Lisa sits down with litigator and tax specialist Joshua Smeltzer to unpack how Texas is positioning itself as a digital-asset hub, what the new business-court and “business judgment rule” mean for companies, and how tax and regulatory choices ripple through M&A, treasury strategy, and day-to-day operations. From plain-English explanations of blockchains and NFTs to real-world pitfalls like staking-reward taxation and balance-sheet Bitcoin, Joshua translates complexity into practical moves leaders can make now. Why listen Understand how Texas policy (business courts, SB29) may reduce friction and risk in complex deals.Get a clear, non-technical definition of “digital assets” (beyond just crypto).Learn the most common digital-asset tax traps—and how to avoid them.Hear how treasury strategies that include Bitcoin change deal terms and diligence.Key Takeaways Texas is engineering deal confidence. SB29 codifies the business judgment rule and narrows who can bring internal claims; Texas Business Courts create a specialized venue for complex disputes—both can reduce litigation overhang and speed decisions. Digital assets ≠ just crypto. Think tokenized rights, NFT titles/provenance, and blockchain-based records—with use cases expanding beyond finance. Tax rules are evolving (slowly). Crypto treated as property drives capital-gains reporting; staking rewards timing is under active challenge; expect more 1099 reporting from exchanges. Treasury Bitcoin changes M&A. Buyers and sellers may need volatility-aware terms (collars, true-ups, working-capital-like mechanics) when significant BTC sits on the balance sheet. Sovereignty vs safety. Self-custody is powerful—but operational risk (keys, loss) is real. Policy and tooling maturity will determine mainstream adoption. Guest Links Joshua on LinkedIn (active commentary & article shares):  (7) Joshua Smeltzer | LinkedIn Forbes column (digital assets, Texas policy, tax/litigation insights):  The TeX Factor For Traditional And Digital Asset Businesses Gray Reed blog: (7) Gray Reed: Posts | LinkedIn Episode Quote “In 2030, we’re going to be fine. We’ve been through a lot—and we’ll navigate this era the same way: with clarity, good judgment, and practical rules.” Listen next: Episodes on TXSE, carve-out playbooks, and AI’s impact on diligence. Disclaimer This podcast is for informational purposes only and reflects the personal views and experiences of the participants. It should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Always consult with your own qualified advisors regarding your specific situation before making business or legal decisions. About In2edge: In2edge is the consulting firm behind this podcast — helping companies navigate the complex world of post-M&A execution. From contract transitions to procurement, supplier onboarding to compliance, In2edge brings practical, hands-on solutions that go beyond the strategy decks and into real operational impact.  Subscribe to M&A+: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast. And remember, sometimes the smartest move a leader can make is simply asking a great question. To learn more, visit: https://in2edge.com/

    49 min

  3. 25 SEPT.

    From Tax Partner to Bitcoin Builder: Tim Savage on Value Creation Post-M&A

    In this episode of M&A+ The Art After the Deal, Lisa Scott sits down with Tim Savage, CPA and Tax Partner at Weaver, who leads the firm’s Blockchain & Digital Assets practice. Tim shares how he built a crypto-forward tax practice inside a traditional firm, where digital assets fit in M&A due diligence, and the tax levers that quietly drive value (or risk) after close. The conversation also digs into stagflation signals, treasury diversification, and one simple move companies can make today to future-proof. You’ll learn: How Tim went from Big Four tax to leading a digital assets practice at WeaverWhat really changes in M&A when a target holds Bitcoin/crypto (custody, controls, valuation)The tax traps in carve-outs and integrations: 83(b), 409A, state nexus (Wayfair), transaction costsDeal design in plain English: asset vs. stock, §338(h)(10), §351, §368, and when §1202 (QSBS) mattersStagflation 101 and why scarce assets (incl. Bitcoin) are back in boardroom discussionsThe one practical step a CEO can take now to get ready for the next decadeGuest: Tim Savage — CPA, Tax Partner at Weaver; leads Blockchain & Digital Assets; Board member, Texas Blockchain Council; speaker at Bitcoin 2023–2025. Quotes “Tax can quietly make or break the value of a deal.”“If a target holds Bitcoin, diligence the custody like you would the vault.”“Today’s ‘high’ may be tomorrow’s ‘new low’ as adoption compounds.”Links Guest: Tim Savage (Weaver): weaver.comTexas Blockchain Council: texasblockchaincouncil.orgHost: Lisa Scott (In2edge / Intuitive Edge): in2edge.comDisclaimer This conversation is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult your professional advisors. About In2edge: In2edge is the consulting firm behind this podcast — helping companies navigate the complex world of post-M&A execution. From contract transitions to procurement, supplier onboarding to compliance, In2edge brings practical, hands-on solutions that go beyond the strategy decks and into real operational impact.  Subscribe to M&A+: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast. And remember, sometimes the smartest move a leader can make is simply asking a great question. To learn more, visit: https://in2edge.com/

    42 min

  4. 24 JUIL.

    Crypto’s Next Frontier: Policy, Power & M&A with Lee Bratcher

    In this timely and wide-ranging episode of M&A+ The Art After the Deal, host Lisa Scott sits down with Lee Bratcher, Founder and President of the Texas Blockchain Council, during a historic week in U.S. crypto legislation. As the GENIUS Act is signed into law and the Clarity Act gains momentum, Lisa and Lee explore what this federal progress means for Texas, how the blockchain ecosystem has evolved, and where the real M&A activity is heating up in the crypto space. They cover: The origin and mission of the Texas Blockchain CouncilTexas as a global leader in Bitcoin policy and innovationThe structure and players in the blockchain ecosystem—from mining to custody to DeFiTokenization, stablecoins, and what smart capital is doing nowRegulatory clarity and how it’s unlocking M&A across mining, infrastructure, and fintechHow traditional professionals—legal, finance, strategy—can align with and support this evolving spaceDAOs, digital identity, and the long game for TexasLisa and Lee wrap up with a lightning round on underrated innovations, must-read books, and what the future holds for Texas as a digital asset capital. Learn more about Lee Bratcher: texasblockchaincouncil.org Links & Resources: Learn more about Lisa’s firm: www.in2edge.comSubscribe to the M&A+ Newsletter on LinkedIn (including the Crypto Series)Follow Lisa Scott and Lee Bratcher on LinkedIn for updatesRecommended Reading: The Bitcoin Standard, Inventing Bitcoin, writings by Nick CarterThis Week in Crypto (Context): GENIUS Act signed into law, marking the first federal crypto legislationClarity Act passes House, defining SEC/CFTC jurisdictionTexas becomes the first U.S. state with a state-funded Bitcoin reserveAbout In2edge: In2edge is the consulting firm behind this podcast — helping companies navigate the complex world of post-M&A execution. From contract transitions to procurement, supplier onboarding to compliance, In2edge brings practical, hands-on solutions that go beyond the strategy decks and into real operational impact.  Subscribe to M&A+: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast. And remember, sometimes the smartest move a leader can make is simply asking a great question. To learn more, visit: https://in2edge.com/

    51 min

  5. 20 JUIN

    Decision-Ready Boards, Growth Mindset, and the Fog of Change – with Tom Doorley

    In this episode of M&A+ The Art After the Deal, host Lisa Scott is joined by Tom Doorley, founder of Sage Partners, co-founder of Braxton Associates, and long-time advisor to top boards and billion-dollar companies. With decades of experience guiding organizations through growth, strategy, governance, and integration, Tom brings a rare blend of insight, candor, and playbook-level clarity to the post-deal landscape. Together, Lisa and Tom unpack: What makes a “decision-ready board” and why most boards are underutilizedThe difference between growth and value-creating growthLessons from the field: from Kimberly-Clark’s brand win to the Scott Paper misstepThe truth about integration—what happens on day two and how culture, branding, and leadership shape long-term successWhy some leadership teams stall at 100 people—and how to build high-performing, trust-based teamsHow to navigate the “fog of change” in a world of AI, polarization, and volatilityThe M&A playbook that separates coin-flip deals from value-driving onesWhether you’re scaling a startup, preparing for an exit, or guiding a company through a major transition, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom and actionable strategies to help you master the art after the deal. Resources & Mentions: Thomas Doorley on LinkedIn: LinkedIn ProfileSage Partners: www.sagepartners.netPodcast: Focus on Growth: Sage InsightsLisa’s book: M&A+ — available on Amazon https://a.co/d/dmQ3aAGAbout In2edge: In2edge is the consulting firm behind this podcast — helping companies navigate the complex world of post-M&A execution. From contract transitions to procurement, supplier onboarding to compliance, In2edge brings practical, hands-on solutions that go beyond the strategy decks and into real operational impact.  Subscribe to M&A+: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast. And remember, sometimes the smartest move a leader can make is simply asking a great question. To learn more, visit: https://in2edge.com/

    40 min

  6. 1 MAI

    M&A Moves That Matter: Leading with Questions in Times of Change with Bob Tiede

    In this episode of M&A+ The Art After the Deal, host Lisa Scott sits down with leadership expert and bestselling author Bob Tiede for a masterclass on leading with questions. Bob shares how shifting from telling to asking can radically transform leadership effectiveness, especially during times of transition, such as post-merger integration.   Drawing from his bestselling book Leading With Questions (3rd Edition), Bob explains how leaders can: Build trust quickly in high-stakes environmentsBecome better listeners in 8 secondsLead more effectively in just 30 secondsUse the power of "What else?" to uncover hidden insightsThe episode includes memorable stories, like how a Navy captain turned around the ship with the worst morale in the fleet by asking three simple questions, and how Bob’s own leadership style changed forever after discovering the original Leading With Questions. Whether you’re managing an M&A transition, leading a new team, or simply looking to grow as a leader, this episode will leave you with powerful tools and practical inspiration to put into action. Key Takeaways: Leaders who ask instead of tell are often 10x more effective.The best questions are simple: "What do you think?" and "What else?"Listening is a form of love — and silence is a leadership skill.People support decisions more when they’ve had a chance to give input — even if their input isn’t chosen.  Memorable Quotes: "Being listened to and being loved are so close, most people can’t tell the difference." "The wisdom in leadership is knowing when to tell and when to ask." "If you don’t intend to listen, don’t ask the question."   Resources Mentioned: Bob’s Blog: Bob Tiede - Leading With Questions Bob’s Free eBooks: Books - Bob Tiede Leading With Questions (3rd Edition) – Available on Amazon and wherever books are sold   About Bob Tiede: Bob has been with Cru (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ) for over 50 years and is currently part of the U.S. Leadership Development Team. His passion is helping leaders multiply their effectiveness through the power of asking questions. Bob’s blog is followed by leaders in over 200 countries, and he has authored multiple bestselling books on leadership, listening, and communication.   About In2edge: In2edge is the consulting firm behind this podcast — helping companies navigate the complex world of post-M&A execution. From contract transitions to procurement, supplier onboarding to compliance, In2edge brings practical, hands-on solutions that go beyond the strategy decks and into real operational impact.    Subscribe to M&A+: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast. And remember, sometimes the smartest move a leader can make is simply asking a great question. To learn more, visit: https://in2edge.com/

    50 min

  7. 20 MARS

    Tech, Transformation & M&A: Lessons in Execution with Michael Richards

    In this episode of M&A+ The Art After the Deal, host Lisa Scott is joined by Michael Richards, a transformational leader with deep expertise in private equity, technology, and software. Michael shares insights from his extensive career spanning Deloitte, KPMG, and leadership roles as CFO, COO, and Chief Transformation Officer. He discusses his work as an Operating Partner at Symphony Technology Group and the strategic execution of carve-outs like RSA Security. This conversation explores the complexities of post-deal transformation, the challenges of execution, and the impact of AI on business evolution.   Key Topics Covered: 1. Michael Richards’ Career Journey Started as an accountant and auditor at Deloitte.Early exposure to private equity through work with KKR during post-Soviet economic transitions.Progressed from consulting at Deloitte and KPMG to leading post-deal execution roles in private equity-backed firms.Current role in media technology, overseeing product and enterprise transformation.  2. Private Equity & Post-Deal Execution  Differentiating private equity styles: control-oriented investing vs. passive exposure.The role of private equity operating teams in driving execution.Importance of having a strategic plan before acquisition and ensuring leadership alignment post-close.  3. Defining Post-Deal Success Private equity’s primary success metric: ROI upon exit.Execution success hinges on structured governance, operational focus, and adaptability to market conditions.The importance of aligning CEO and leadership team to transformation goals. 4. Challenges in Strategy Execution  The risk of post-deal neglect: why continuous monitoring and accountability matter.Silos between deal teams and operating teams can hinder execution.The need for programmatic, milestone-driven tracking of transformation initiatives. 5. Leadership & Team Buy-In for Transformation  Importance of fostering a growth mindset and culture of adaptability.Key leadership traits: servant leadership, transparency, and action-driven management.Balancing internal execution with strategic external consulting support.  6. Keeping Post-Deal Momentum  Effective communication strategies: town halls, one-on-ones, milestone tracking.The role of structured program management in sustaining momentum.  7. AI’s Impact on M&A & Business Transformation  AI’s role in reducing administrative burdens and optimizing operations.How AI-native solutions can enhance product transformation and internal efficiencies.The shift towards AI-driven value creation within private equity-backed firms.  8. The Future of M&A in 2025 M&A activity hinges on interest rates and capital supply dynamics.Increasing emphasis on operational expertise in private equity firms.A shift from financial engineering to value-driven, strategic transformation.  9. Advice for Young Professionals Interested in Private Equity & M&A  Gain expertise in finance, accounting, legal, or strategy to build a strong foundation.Understanding business models and value creation is critical to success in private equity. Final Thoughts & Takeaways: The post-deal phase determines whether value is created or lost.Strategic planning, leadership alignment, and disciplined execution drive successful transformations.  AI and technology continue to reshape how businesses optimize post-acquisition strategies. Connect with Michael Ri To learn more, visit: https://in2edge.com/

    43 min

  8. 6 FÉVR.

    From Chaos to Clarity: Best Practices in M&A Integration

    In this episode of M&A+ The Art After the Deal, Lisa Scott sits down with Don Yakulis, a seasoned M&A integration leader who has managed over 50 global deals across countries like Finland, Japan, Korea, and Malta. With executive experience at a variety of companies including:  Light & Wonder, Visa, SAP, Nokia, Cisco, and Synopsis, Don brings invaluable insights into building integration frameworks, navigating cultural complexities, and executing successful post-merger transitions. From his non-traditional career path that started in physical therapy to leading integration efforts at major corporations, Don shares key lessons on aligning leadership, managing change, and handling the high-pressure environment of M&A. Whether you're leading your first deal or your 50th, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to enhance your integration approach.   Key Discussion Points: 1. Don’s Unconventional Path to M&A Integration Transitioning from physical therapy to business school and consultingLearning operations and process re-engineering at Arthur AndersenBreaking into M&A at Synopsys and building integration playbooks  2. The Role of Playbooks and Planning in M&A Success Why detailed integration plans matter—but why they must be flexibleThe importance of involving key stakeholders in the integration processRolling 90-day planning: Keeping integration efforts dynamic and adaptable  3. The Human Side of M&A: Managing Change and Uncertainty How to handle employee concerns, role changes, and layoffs with transparencyThe power of communication, trust, and leadership alignment in integrationStrategies for ensuring acquired employees buy into the new organization 4. Navigating M&A in a Global Environment How cultural differences impact deal execution and integrationCase study: Managing an acquisition in Japan and respecting business customsThe importance of patience, relationship-building, and understanding local decision-making processes  5. Lessons from the Field: The Best and Hardest Parts of M&A Integration The rewarding experience of working with cross-functional teams globallyThe challenges of high-pressure deals and executive expectationsWhy adaptability, influencing skills, and problem-solving are crucial to success  6. Don’s Top Best Practices for M&A Integration Success Align on the "Why" – Clearly define and communicate the strategic rationale behind the dealDevelop a Baseline Plan – Start with a structured approach that evolves as new insights emergeEngage Cross-Functional Teams Early – Involve internal and target company leaders in planningMaintain Proactive Communication – Address issues quickly and ensure leadership alignmentBe Adaptive and Responsive – Recognize that integration is dynamic and requires constant refinement  Final Takeaways: M&A integration isn’t just about checklists and financial synergies—it’s about people, culture, and execution. Whether managing an acquisition across different countries or handling high-stakes decisions, Don emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, proactive communication, and the ability to navigate uncertainty. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to refine their integration approach and learn from a veteran who has seen it all. Connect with Don Yakulis on LinkedIn for support and more insights:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/donyakulis/ Learn More About In2edge: In2edge helps businesses tackle the most complex challenges of mergers, acquisitions, and spi To learn more, visit: https://in2edge.com/

    47 min
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À propos

Welcome to "M&A+: The Art After the Deal," the podcast that delves into the dynamic world of mergers and acquisitions, where strategy meets execution. I'm your host, Lisa Scott, guiding you through insightful conversations with M&A thought leaders and industry experts. Join us as we unravel the complexities, challenges, and success stories that shape the ever-evolving landscape of mergers and acquisitions. Brought to you by Intuitive Edge, the go-to elite legal services provider that's revolutionizing how corporations streamline contract review and transition during divestitures or acquisitions.  At Intuitive Edge, we're not just about transactions; we're about fostering relationships, extracting value, and ensuring efficiency in every transition endeavor. Our goal is to simplify complexity, and this podcast serves as an extension of our commitment to excellence.To learn more, visit:  https://in2edge.com/

Informations

  • Création
    Lisa Scott
  • Années d’activité
    2024 - 2025
  • Épisodes
    24
  • Classification
    Tous publics
  • Copyright
    © 2025 M&A+: The Art After The Deal podcast
  • Site web de l’émission
    M&A+: The Art After The Deal podcast

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