Gwen Pope , Senior Managing Partner and Head of Platform Solutions Tiger Team M&A and Tracie Smith , Senior Partner and Head of GTM Solutions at Tiger Team M&A Together, Gwen and Tracie dive into the complexities of serial acquisitions, discussing how large strategic acquirers can develop repeatable frameworks to streamline execution and maximize deal value. From building a North Star strategy to decision-making frameworks, they cover what it takes to successfully integrate multiple acquisitions...
Mar 10, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Ep 340•Transcript available on Metacast Mimi Wu , Partner at Sullivan & Cromwell When a company is struggling financially, M&A can be a lifeline—but navigating distressed deals is a whole different game. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Mimi Wu, Partner at Sullivan & Cromwell, breaks down how Chapter 11 bankruptcy, 363 sales, and creditor negotiations come into play when businesses are in distress. Mimi has worked on some of the biggest restructuring cases, including FTX and Silicon Valley Bank, and she’s here to explain ho...
Mar 03, 2025•50 min•Ep 339•Transcript available on Metacast Kaj Rozga , Senior Antitrust Counsel at ABB Antitrust scrutiny in M&A is at an all-time high, and companies must be prepared to navigate evolving regulatory challenges. Kaj Rozga, Senior Antitrust Counsel at ABB, brings a unique perspective, having worked both inside the FTC and in private practice, advising on antitrust strategy, compliance, and M&A transactions. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Kaj breaks down the latest antitrust trends, regulatory risks, and strategic approaches t...
Feb 24, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep 338•Transcript available on Metacast John Cerasuolo , CEO of Leap Partners Creating a successful roll-up strategy requires a unique combination of industry expertise, strategic planning, and leadership. John Cerasuolo, CEO of Leap Partners, has mastered the art of acquiring and integrating businesses in the home services industry, including HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services. With 19 acquisitions in less than three years, Leap Partners is rapidly expanding across the Southeast with a people-first approach. In this episode of t...
Feb 17, 2025•50 min•Ep 337•Transcript available on Metacast Jeff Giles, Executive Vice President at Core & Main M&A at scale requires more than just financial analysis—it’s about building relationships, understanding cultural fit, and executing a seamless integration strategy. With over 60 deals under his belt, Jeff Giles, Executive Vice President at Core & Main, has a proven track record of leading high-volume, buyer-led M&A. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Jeff shares his expertise in strategic acquisitions, relationship-driven deal sourcin...
Feb 10, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Ep 336•Transcript available on Metacast John Orbe, Senior Associate General Counsel – M&A at Emerson Large-scale deals come with layers of complexity—from regulatory challenges and cross-border negotiations to structuring transactions that align with long-term business strategy. Having the right legal approach can make or break a deal. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, John Orbe joins us to break down what it takes to execute high-stakes transactions. He shares insights on the differences between large and small deals, how l...
Feb 03, 2025•50 min•Transcript available on Metacast Dr. Amit Monga , Founder and CEO of SARAPOINT Every deal tells a story of risk, strategy, and the relentless pursuit of value. With M&A evolving into a core function across industries, simply following old playbooks is no longer enough. You need insight, discipline, and a strategy tailored to today’s fast-moving, multi-dimensional landscape. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Amit Monga, Founder and CEO of SARAPOINT, joins us to unpack the intricacies of software valuation, integration ...
Jan 27, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep 334•Transcript available on Metacast Amit Monga , Founder and CEO of SARAPOINT M&A is a minefield of uncertainties, let alone the tech space. Missteps in integration, cultural clashes, and unforeseen risks can quickly derail even the most promising deals. That’s why understanding what could go wrong is critical. Dr. Amit Monga, Founder and CEO of SARAPOINT, shares lessons from the trenches to help you anticipate challenges and mitigate risks. Learn how to navigate integration, manage carve-outs, and turn M&A uncertainty into opport...
Jan 20, 2025•49 min•Ep 333•Transcript available on Metacast Joe Mantone , U.S. Financial Institutions News Desk Manager at S&P Global Market Intelligence (NYSE: SPGI) The M&A market isn’t what it used to be. Deal volumes are rising, but they remain a shadow of the record highs of 2021. Add to this the challenges of regulatory hurdles, high interest rates, and uneven global recovery. Corporate development leaders are left asking: where do we go from here? In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Joe Mantone of S&P Global Market Intelligence unpacks the...
Jan 13, 2025•33 min•Ep 332•Transcript available on Metacast Andrew Kelley III - VP of Corporate Development and Ventures at Five9 ( NYSE: FIVN) Achieving success in M&A requires more than identifying opportunities—it demands a thoughtful approach to relationship-building, thorough due diligence, and strategic alignment. Without these key elements, even well-intentioned deals risk falling short of their potential. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Andrew Kelley, VP of Corporate Development and Ventures at Five9, shares his expertise on navigatin...
Jan 06, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Ep 331•Transcript available on Metacast Russ Hartz, VP of Corporate Development at Ansys, and Carey Pugh, Director of Corporate Integrations at Ansys (NASDAQ: ANSS) The fastest way to sabotage an M&A deal is to let the deal team and integration team work in silos. Too often, companies nail the transaction only to fumble on execution because the people closing the deal and those delivering the value aren’t aligned. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Russ Hartz, VP of Corporate Development at Ansys, and Carey Pugh, Director of ...
Dec 30, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Ep 330•Transcript available on Metacast Jason Lippert, CEO of LCI Industries (NYSE: LCII) M&A integration is notoriously challenging—cultural misalignment, disengaged leaders, and high turnover often derail even the best-laid plans. How do you overcome these obstacles and ensure a seamless integration that drives long-term success? In this episode, Jason Lippert, CEO of LCI Industries, shares his proven playbook for mastering M&A integration through leadership development and cultural alignment. Things you will learn: Correlating cult...
Dec 23, 2024•56 min•Ep 329•Transcript available on Metacast Adam Coffey, Founding Partner of The Chairman Group Many M&A deals fail to deliver their promised value due to gaps in deal sourcing, diligence, and integration. Without a clear strategy and the right tools, even the best opportunities can turn into liabilities. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, hear all the expert insights from Adam Coffey, Founding Partner at The Chairman Group, on how to source the right targets, structure deals for sustainability, and integrate acquisitions seamles...
Dec 16, 2024•52 min•Ep 328•Transcript available on Metacast Adam Coffey, Founding Partner of The Chairman Group Scaling a business from good to great often feels like an uphill battle. Organic growth alone can be painfully slow, leaving you far from achieving your dream of building an empire. But how do you supercharge growth without losing control or falling into costly traps? Building an empire takes more than just passion—it requires a clear, strategic playbook. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Adam Coffey, Founding Partner of The Chairman ...
Dec 09, 2024•49 min•Ep 327•Transcript available on Metacast Art Papas, CEO at Bullhorn Growth through M&A is about strategy, timing, and bold leadership. The stakes are high, but the rewards are transformative for those who get it right. In this episode, Art Papas, CEO of Bullhorn, shares his journey from tech founder to M&A leader, and how he turned acquisitions into engines of growth. Things you will learn: • The role evolution from tech lead to CEO • The case for buyer-led M&A • Leveraging customer insights to identify strategic opportunities • Balanc...
Dec 02, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Ep 326•Transcript available on Metacast Avinash Patel , Partner at PJT Partners (NYSE: PJT) Investment bankers aren't always seen as trusted advisors; some see them as deal-pushers, prioritizing fees over friendships. The skepticism is fair, but many miss the point of what they actually bring to the table. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Avinash Patel, Partner at PJT Partners, offers an insider’s view on what investment bankers really do in M&A, from guiding strategic vision to wielding influence in complex transaction...
Nov 27, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Ep 325•Transcript available on Metacast Yogesh Gupta, President and CEO at Progress Software In M&A, closing the deal is just the beginning. The true measure of success comes from effective execution post-close. Mastering this phase demands transparent leadership and strategic agility—qualities that can significantly influence whether an acquisition thrives or flounders. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Yogesh Gupta , President and CEO of Progress Software , explores how clear leadership and adaptable strategies are pivotal...
Nov 18, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep 324•Transcript available on Metacast Dr. Tianyi Jiang, CEO at AvePoint Raising capital is only half the battle. The real challenge is fostering strong relationships with investors while ensuring your business continues to grow. It’s easy to focus on securing funds, but investors look for more than just short-term returns. Without that clarity, it’s harder to build lasting trust and keep things moving forward. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Dr. Tianyi Jiang, CEO at AvePoint, explains how to navigate investor relations a...
Nov 11, 2024•49 min•Ep 323•Transcript available on Metacast Davis Thacker, Chief of Staff and Head of Corporate Development at Carta The M&A process is notoriously tricky—everyone loves talking about getting the deal done, but few focus on the real work that comes after. Integration, valuation shifts, and cultural alignment often prove to be the biggest roadblocks to a successful acquisition. How do you avoid the common pitfalls that derail so many deals post-close? In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Davis Thacker, Chief of Staff and Head of Cor...
Nov 04, 2024•47 min•Ep 322•Transcript available on Metacast Todd Henrich , SVP Head of Corporate Development at Booking Holdings (NASDAQ: BKNG) Today's M&A market conditions are volatile, regulatory scrutiny is high, and the pressure to find value is greater than ever. The risks of entering a deal without a firm understanding of today’s market dynamics have never been more pronounced. How do you ensure your strategic acquisitions stay on course? In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, we explore the best practices for executing strategic M&A in today...
Oct 28, 2024•58 min•Ep 321•Transcript available on Metacast Charles Webb , Lead Antitrust Counsel at FedEx (NYSE: FDX) When it comes to mergers and acquisitions, everyone loves to talk about synergies, growth, and market share. However, these enticing prospects can quickly dim if regulatory compliance risks are overlooked. While not the most glamorous aspect of M&A, compliance forms the bedrock that ensures deals are legally sound and smoothly executed. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Charles Webb, Lead Antitrust Counsel at FedEx, discusses h...
Oct 21, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep 320•Transcript available on Metacast Henry Ward, CEO and Co-founder at Carta M&A has become a critical tool for companies to stay competitive in today’s fast-changing market. But success in acquisitions now requires more than just speed—it demands a strategic approach that aligns with long-term goals and adapts to industry shifts. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Henry Ward, CEO and Co-founder of Carta, shares his insights on how businesses can refine their M&A strategies to thrive in an evolving corporate landscape. Thi...
Oct 14, 2024•59 min•Ep 319•Transcript available on Metacast Camilo Franco , Director of M&A Integration and Operations and Matt Arsenault , VP of Corporate Development & Strategic Alliances at Jamf (NASDAQ: JAMF) Too often in M&A, diligence and integration operate in separate lanes. Diligence focuses on uncovering risks, while integration is left scrambling to make everything fit once the ink is dry. It’s a classic case of working in silos, and it’s leaving value on the table. But there's a way to break down those barriers from the start. In this episode...
Oct 07, 2024•36 min•Ep 318•Transcript available on Metacast Jann Lau, Senior Director, Corporate Development at PayPal (NASDAQ: PYPL) A well-crafted deal thesis is the cornerstone of any successful M&A transaction. It outlines the strategic rationale and anticipated value creation from the acquisition. However, a strong thesis alone isn't enough. To ensure the deal delivers on its promise, it's crucial to rigorously validate its assumptions and projections. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Jann Lau, Senior Director of Corporate Development at ...
Sep 30, 2024•55 min•Ep 317•Transcript available on Metacast Gregg Albert , Managing Partner - Corporate Strategy and Mergers & Acquisitions at Accenture (NYSE: ACN) Companies are facing immense pressure to stay agile, seize new opportunities, and maintain a competitive advantage in today's rapidly evolving business environment. One key strategy to achieve this is portfolio rebalancing, a critical initiative that helps businesses optimize their asset mix and drive sustainable growth. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Gregg Albert, Managing Direc...
Sep 23, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Ep 316•Transcript available on Metacast Anson Lau , Deputy General Counsel at LONGi Solar (SHA:601012) In M&A, it’s not just about the deal—it’s about who’s at the table. In-house and external counsel both play key roles in a deal, bringing unique expertise and advantages. Knowing how to strategically utilize both can help you manage risks, secure favorable terms, and ensure smooth post-deal integration. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Anson Lau, Deputy General Counsel at LONGi Solar, shares how to play to the strengths of...
Sep 16, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep 315•Transcript available on Metacast Kevin Lynch , CEO and Board Member at Optiv Beyond the boardroom battles and billion-dollar deals, mergers and acquisitions present a unique set of challenges and opportunities for CEOs. From strategic planning to post-merger integration, it takes essential skills and qualities for CEOs to excel in this high-stakes arena. In this episode of the M&A Science podcast, Kevin Lynch, CEO and Board Member at Optiv, shares his invaluable insights on the role of a CEO and what it takes to lead a company ...
Sep 09, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Ep 314•Transcript available on Metacast Sanjay Poonen, CEO & President of Cohesity M&A isn't just about signing a deal and popping the champagne. Every CEO knows the entire process is a minefield of cultural clashes, integration headaches, and occasional unexpected challenges that could blow up your strategy. But while M&A can be a high-stakes game, it’s also one that can be mastered with the right playbook. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, we’re diving into key strategies CEOs should consider to ensure M&A success, featuri...
Sep 02, 2024•51 min•Ep 313•Transcript available on Metacast Jerome Combes-Knoke, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development at Dotmatics (Insight Partners) Strategic focus is a prerequisite to strong corporate performance. Yet, without proactive efforts to maintain focus, companies can “drift” and become weighed down by misaligned business units. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Jerome Combes-Knoke, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Development at Dotmatics (a portfolio company of Insight Partners), shares his br...
Aug 26, 2024•45 min•Ep 312•Transcript available on Metacast Court Carruthers, President and CEO at TricorBraun Cultural integration is the often overlooked key to long-term M&A success. It's about creating a shared identity, values, and purpose that unites employees from different backgrounds. When done right, it can transform a merger from a transactional event into a strategic partnership. In this episode of the M&A Science Podcast, Court Carruthers, President and CEO at TricorBraun, shares his insights on how to successfully integrate two cultures and...
Aug 19, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep 311•Transcript available on Metacast 
