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.