Growing EBITDA

Episode Title: Interim Management: Solving Talent Gaps with Speed, Flexibility, and Impact
Episode Description:
In this episode of Growing EBITDA, Mike and I unpack the growing demand for interim leadership in middle-market businesses and private equity-backed companies. From abrupt executive departures to high-stakes operational gaps, interim solutions are often essential to maintaining momentum—and sometimes even survival.
We clarify the difference between interim and fractional roles, explore use cases across finance, operations, and IT, and share practical advice for deploying interim talent effectively.
Highlights:
Defining interim vs. fractional leadership: key differences in use and structure
When to leverage interim management—reactive vs. proactive scenarios
Common interim roles: CFOs, COOs, plant managers, and site controllers
The strategic value of interim leaders during transactions and carve-outs
Financial, operational, and cultural risks of mishandling talent gaps
How to find the right interim fit—and the cost of getting it wrong
Lessons on empowerment, onboarding, and managing expectations
Real-world anecdotes from private equity and industry leadership
Whether you’re a PE investor, operator, or executive planning for succession, this episode offers timely guidance on how to bridge leadership gaps with speed and confidence.

In this episode of Growing EBITDA, Mike McSweeney and James Bandy dive into the high-stakes world of post-merger integration (PMI). Drawing from real-life experiences—including energy drinks in Bonham, Texas, and project work in Rattlesnake Bayou—they unpack the common pitfalls and overlooked challenges that derail integrations.
From talent flight and system disruptions to missed synergy targets and brand damage, they explore what can go wrong—and how to prevent it. With humor and honesty, the conversation highlights what it takes to successfully integrate businesses and realize the full value of a deal.
Highlights:
Integration war stories: Bonham, Texas and Rattlesnake Bayou, Alabama
Common PMI failures: talent flight, system mismatches, and brand confusion
Missed synergies: Why most integrations fall short of modeled expectations
Financial impacts: Margin erosion, lost customers, and project mismanagement
The role of project planning and accountability in successful execution
Why day zero planning is just as important as day one
Tips for setting integration strategy and leadership alignment
Finding quick wins to build momentum: indirect procurement and more
Trivia: What is the expert-recommended timeline for full integration?
Whether you’re buying a company, merging platforms, or integrating a carve-out, this episode delivers practical insights to help you avoid the traps and make the most of your deal.

In this episode of Growing EBITDA, Mike McSweeney and James Bandy explore the real-world applications—and limitations—of AI in middle-market businesses. Drawing from boardroom conversations, client engagements, and hands-on use cases, they unpack how executives and operators can use AI to improve workflows, reduce inefficiencies, and drive smarter decisions.
They also address the growing hype around AI tools, offer advice on avoiding overspending, and share practical tips for building secure and cost-effective solutions.
Highlights:
How AI adoption has evolved in the middle market over the past 18 months
Key areas where AI is already delivering value: customer service, inventory planning, finance, and executive workflows
How to build lean, efficient automations using tools like ChatGPT
Where AI is still overhyped—and how to spot inflated platforms
Practical examples of using AI for board prep, market research, and lead targeting
Safe and smart AI usage: privacy concerns, governance, and internal safeguards
TriVista’s approach to responsible AI implementation and use case vetting
ROI expectations and the importance of a business-first mindset
Trivia: What year was the term “artificial intelligence” first coined?
AI isn’t just for tech giants—it’s quickly becoming essential for the middle market. Tune in to hear how leaders are putting it to work in real, measurable ways.

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.

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!