Graeme Frazier shares his journey in the M&A industry, highlighting his non-traditional path and the founding of PCR Partners. He discusses the innovative GF Data model, the importance of relationships, and the challenges in the lower middle market. Graeme provides insights on current market conditions, the value of quality businesses, and the critical role of mentorship, emphasizing trust and confidentiality in transactions.

Robert Rough from Telos Capital Advisors shares his expertise in mergers and acquisitions. He discusses capital raising, the complexities of capital stacks, and the significance of understanding client goals. Robert highlights the various types of capital, challenges in securing funding, and the necessity of a detailed financial model. He also emphasizes relationship-building with capital providers and the importance of due diligence in partner selection.

Gilbert Cruz shares his journey in the M&A field, highlighting the importance of networking and personal connections. He discusses the evolving role of young professionals and the impact of AI on the industry. Gilbert provides advice for newcomers, emphasizing ethical competition and strategic thinking in deal-making. He concludes with insights on building relationships and the value of community for success in M&A.

Darryl Mazow shares his journey from Switzerland to the U.S. and his experiences in corporate development and law. He highlights the importance of understanding clients' needs and the emotional aspects of M&A transactions. Darryl discusses the impact of tariffs on deals and the role of AI in legal work. He encourages young professionals to network and explore diverse opportunities in Houston's legal market.

Mindy Passmore transitions from public accounting to becoming a fractional CFO and launching her own M&A firm. She highlights the need for business owners to be prepared for mergers and acquisitions, addressing both financial and emotional aspects. Mindy emphasizes understanding client needs, the impact of family in business transitions, and the cultural elements of acquisitions. Her commitment to continuous learning and mentoring, especially for women, is a key focus.

Emily Ackerman shares her journey in the M&A space, highlighting the importance of community and relationships in business. She discusses the dynamics of M&A, the value of networking, and industry challenges. Gina Gallutia emphasizes personal connections, the role of local news, and the significance of emotional intelligence. The conversation wraps up with a light-hearted discussion on communication methods and the effort needed to maintain personal connections.

Tommy Mixon shares his journey in the insurance industry, detailing experiences from Georgia to a key role at IMA Financial Group. He emphasizes the importance of relationships with private equity firms and understanding client needs. The role of insurance in mergers and acquisitions is discussed, along with current challenges in commercial auto insurance and the integration of AI tools. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on the evolving insurance landscape and personal values guiding their career.

Hear from middle market M&A executives with deep private equity and strategic transactional experience as they discuss market dynamics that bring us to where we stand currently in the M&A cycle, including data on closed deals. The discussion will include current market characteristics and statistics, including deal volume, valuation and leverage dynamics, as well as trends under way that will shape the next 6 months of deal activity. Uncertainty is the new hallmark in US business environment, particularly as relates to tariffs and changes in the regulatory landscape, but interest rates continue to trend downward, there continues to be record un-invested (yet committed) capital availability, and there could be a record number of sellers coming to market, given the pent-up supply of private-equity owned portfolio companies needing an exit, and the continuation of the demographic wave.