Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast
Discussions about private equity and business with Scott Becker.
Episodes
Long Talkers and Cell Blackout Spots 7-3-26
In this episode, Scott Becker shares a humorous story about a dropped call and why good conversations require listening as much as talking.
Artificial Intelligence for Business Leaders: Practical Use Cases and AI That Actually Move the Needle 7-2-26
In this webinar turned podcast, Scott Becker is joined by Brian Taylor, Will Conaway, Robert DeVita, and Andrea Marin, to discuss practical AI use cases, implementation challenges, and how leaders can drive meaningful business results with AI. Sponsored by McGuireWoods LLP, Perpetuate Capital, Priority Search Management, Thinkspan, Baird & Warner, Elevate Talent Advisors, & Grange […
Spine Salespeople & “I Get No Respect” 7-2-26
In this episode, Scott Becker shares a humorous story about feeling overlooked at a spine conference.
The Deal Market: Private Equity, Venture Capital, & More 7-1-26
In this webinar turned podcast, Scott Becker is joined by Bart Walker, Jeff Freedman, Nader Samii, and Dr. Paul Slosar to discuss the evolving healthcare deal market. Sponsored by McGuireWoods LLP, Perpetuate Capital, Priority Search Management, Thinkspan, Baird & Warner, Elevate Talent Advisors, & Grange Park Partners.
The Triple Aim at Work 7-1-26
In this episode, Scott Becker shares 3 qualities that drive career success and explains why responsiveness can set high performers apart.
The Business Leadership Summit 2026: The Deal Market, AI Use Cases, Talent & Recruitment, and Building Great Businesses 6-30-26
In this long-form webinar turned podcast, Scott Becker speaks with several industry leaders on 7 different panels including The Deal Market, AI Use Cases, Talent & Recruitment, and Building Great Businesses. Sponsored by McGuireWoods LLP, Perpetuate Capital, Priority Search Management, Thinkspan, Baird & Warner, Elevate Talent Advisors, & Grange Park Partners.
“The Big Desk” 6-30-26
In this episode, Scott Becker shares a story about humility, leadership, and treating people well throughout your career.
How AI Is Reshaping Healthcare’s Next Decade with Manav Sevak, Venkat Mocherla, & Malinka Walaliyadde 6-29-26
In this episode, Manav Sevak, CEO, Novitas Holdings, Venkat Mocherla, Founder of Midstream, and Malinka Walaliyadde, CEO, AKASA, discuss how artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare operations, revenue cycle, patient navigation, and clinical decision-making.
The Markets Give & They Take 6-29-26
In this episode, Scott Becker breaks down the market rebound, AI stock volatility, and the geopolitical and economic forces driving investor sentiment.
Sports with David Pivnick of McGuireWoods LLP 6-27-26
In this episode, David Pivnick, Partner at McGuireWoods LLP, discusses the Giannis trade, the NBA Finals, and the Chicago Blackhawks’ future, while sharing insights on leadership, team building, and navigating change.
How Infusion Services Became a Private Equity Hotspot with Amber Walsh of McGuireWoods LLP 6-26-26
In this episode, Amber Walsh, Partner at McGuireWoods LLP, examines the recent SinglePoint acquisition of Helix Infusion Services and explains why it reflects broader trends shaping healthcare private equity.
The Evolving Landscape of Physician Practice Acquisitions with Holly Buckley of McGuireWoods LLP 6-25-26
In this episode, Holly Buckley, Chair of Healthcare at McGuireWoods, shares insights on the current state of private equity investment in physician practice management, the specialties attracting the most interest, and the operational factors shaping today’s healthcare transactions.
Intel, Meta Platforms, & Lucid Motors: The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly 6-25-26
In this episode, Scott Becker breaks down Intel’s remarkable surge, Meta’s ongoing struggles, and Lucid Motors’ steep decline in a look at three very different stock stories.
AI, Relocation, and the Future of Talent Acquisition with Jeff Ellman and Michael Krasman of UrbanBound 6-24-26
In this episode, Jeff Ellman and Michael Krasman of UrbanBound discuss how technology, AI, and smarter relocation strategies are helping healthcare systems attract top talent, reduce costs, and improve the employee experience.
The 5 Stages of a Business: From Idea to Scale 6-24-26
In this episode, Scott Becker outlines the journey from idea to scale, emphasizing execution, customer validation, profitability, and sustainable growth.
Microsoft: Even the Most Powerful Companies Complain 6-23-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses Microsoft’s recent struggles and the irony of a tech giant raising concerns about the growing power of AI companies.
A Mix of Business & World Affairs 6-22-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses the latest developments in U.S.-Iran negotiations, the resignation of U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and how global uncertainty is impacting markets.
Be Here Now: Why Multitasking Is Holding You Back with Liz Hutson 6-20-26
In this episode, Liz Hutson, Principal Consultant, Owner at EGH, LLC, shares why multitasking often reduces productivity, increases stress, and leads to costly mistakes.
Allbirds to Smartbirds: A Sucker is Born Every Minute 6-20-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses Allbirds’ stock surge after rebranding itself around AI.
Physician Practice Management and Healthcare Private Equity Trends in 2026 with Amber Walsh of McGuireWoods LLP 6-19-26
In this episode, Amber Walsh, Partner at McGuireWoods LLP, discusses the evolving healthcare private equity landscape, investor interest across physician specialties, the continued growth of ASC strategies, and more.
Elon Musk & Billionares 6-19-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses Elon Musk becoming a trillionaire and what it says about competition and the reminder that no matter how successful someone becomes, there is always another level to aspire to.
Iran & U.S. Sign Memorandum of Understanding & Meet the New Fed Boss 6-18-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses the market reaction to a new U.S.-Iran agreement, the Federal Reserve’s continued focus on inflation, and more.
Property Tax Appeals, Valuation Expertise, and Building Lasting Businesses with Jim Field & Joseph Calvanico 6-18-26
In this episode, James A. Field, Partner at Field and Goldberg, LLC, and Joseph James Calvanico, MAI, FRICS – President, J2C Valuation, discuss commercial property tax appeals, the critical role of valuations in reducing tax burdens, and key developments shaping the real estate market.
Sean Diwan on Smart Technology Investments, AI, and Leadership 6-17-26
In this episode, Sean Diwan, shares his framework for prioritizing technology investments, leveraging data and AI for meaningful impact, and driving operational excellence.
Guy Weiss on Building the Future of Work Communication with Zenzap 6-16-26
In this episode, Guy Weiss, CEO of Zenzap, discusses how his company is helping businesses replace personal messaging apps with secure, purpose-built workplace communication tools. He also shares insights on employee retention, operational efficiency, and the growing role of AI-powered agents in the future of workforce collaboration.
Elon Musk Becomes a Trillionaire: 5 Quick Thoughts 6-16-26
In this episode, Scott Becker reflects on Elon Musk’s rise to a trillion-dollar net worth.
Ceasefire, SpaceX, the Markets Soar, & More 6-15-26
In this episode, Scott Becker reviews the U.S.-Iran ceasefire, SpaceX’s massive public debut, and the market’s strong surge on the news.
The Beauty of In-Person Events and Human Interaction 6-14-26
In this episode, Scott discusses the importance and benefits of in person events and social gatherings.
SpaceX, Trillionaires, Winners and Losers 6-13-26
In this episode Scott discusses Elon Musk becoming the world’s first trillionaire and how people are reacting to it.
The Scale & the Portfolio 6-12-26
In this episode, Scott Becker compares avoiding a falling portfolio to avoiding the scale when diet habits are off track.
Tech & Mega Cap Stocks vs. Traditional Blue Chip Companies & Sectors 6-11-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses the shifting balance between mega cap technology stocks and traditional blue chip companies, highlighting how market rotations can create opportunities across both sectors.
The 3 Stages of a CEO & Founder 6-10-26
In this episode, Scott Becker shares how CEOs evolve from doing everything themselves to building strong leadership teams that drive scalable, long-term growth.
Lessons from Innovation and ClimateTech with Luke Oberlander 6-10-26
In this episode, Luke Oberlander, shares insights from his journey through health technology and climate innovation, discussing the challenges of scaling new solutions, driving adoption, and creating long-term impact through operational excellence and cross-functional leadership.
Co-CEOs, Lululemon, & Oracle 6-9-26
In this episode, Scott Becker examines the co-CEO model through the recent struggles of Oracle and Lululemon.
Cash Flow, CFO Leadership, and Building Stronger Businesses with Brent Berger of NXT Ascent 6-9-26
In this episode, Brent Berger, CFO, NXT Ascent, shares insights on why cash flow matters more than revenue alone, how CFOs can drive operational value beyond financial reporting, and the growing role of AI in helping businesses make faster, smarter decisions.
The Markets Tanked & More 6-8-26
In this episode, Scott Becker breaks down Friday’s sharp market selloff, examining the impact of Middle East tensions, rising oil prices, and weakness in AI and technology stocks.
Leadership, Learning, and Building a Career with Jack Gordon & Olivia Gordon 6-8-26
In this episode, Jack and Olivia Gordon share insights as young professionals on networking, internships, leadership, philanthropy, and preparing for careers in an AI-driven economy.
Make Yourself Indispensable 6-7-26
In this episode, Scott Becker shares why building deep value for a few colleagues, leaders, or clients is often far more powerful than spreading yourself thin.
7 Thoughts on Building Winning Teams 6-6-26
In this episode, Scott Becker shares seven key strategies for building high-performing teams, from identifying top talent and addressing underperformance to fostering gratitude, strengthening culture, and more.
Whiners Aren’t Needed Here 6-5-26
In this episode, Scott Becker explains how negativity can spread through organizations, why talented people attract other high performers, and the importance of fostering a positive, solutions-focused culture.
Sports Leadership, Team Building, and the CEOs Behind Winning Franchises with David Pivnick of McGuireWoods LLP 6-5-26
In this episode, David Pivnick, Partner at McGuireWoods LLP, joins the podcast to discuss what separates winning sports organizations from struggling franchises.
Take Your Strokes & Shove it 6-4-26
In this episode, Scott Becker draws parallels between sports franchise owners who reject public funding and his own refusal to accept golf strokes from a rival.
The Magnificent 7: Winners, Losers, & More 6-4-26
In this episode, Scott Becker breaks down the latest performance of the Magnificent 7, highlighting NVIDIA’s continued dominance, Apple’s strong iPhone-driven growth, and more.
Building Secure Payments Infrastructure for Private Markets with Todd Sorrel of 6lock 6-3-26
In this episode, Todd Sorrel, CEO and Founder, 6lock, shares lessons from building fintech businesses, the growing fraud risks driven by AI, and his vision for the future of payments in private markets.
The Tech Bros 6-3-26
In this episode, Scott Becker examines criticism of leading technology entrepreneurs, arguing that despite concerns about wealth inequality, their companies have driven innovation, job creation, and economic growth.
Real Estate Private Equity, Deal Making, and Building a Business Through Law with Shams Merchant of MW Law 6-3-26
In this episode, Shams Merchant, Attorney, CRE Law, discusses what separates successful real estate entrepreneurs, where he sees opportunity in today’s commercial real estate market, and the importance of practical experience when advising investors and fund managers.
Microsoft is Rebounding: 4 Quick Points 6-2-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses Microsoft’s recent rebound, highlighting its recovery from a steep decline, strong AI and Azure performance, and the continued leadership of CEO Satya Nadella.
Dell is Surging: 6 Quick Points 6-1-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses Dell’s transformation into an AI infrastructure leader, highlighting soaring AI server sales, a 234% year-to-date stock gain, and the company’s remarkable growth story.
Resilient Investing and Real Estate Strategy with Nathan Jameson of ARX Capital 6-1-26
In this episode, Nathan Jameson, Founder & Managing Partner, ARX Capital, discusses investing in resilient asset classes, the evolving manufactured housing market, and the leadership principles guiding long term value creation in today’s economy.
The Best Founders Know Their Business Inside and Out 5-31-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses why the strongest founders and CEOs stay deeply connected to the parts of the business that truly drive success.
Stacking & Concentrating Talent 5-30-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses the importance of concentrating top talent in the areas that drive the greatest impact, rather than spreading resources too thin across every function of a business.
The 3 Phases of a Founder 5-29-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses the 3 phases of entrepreneurship, from doing everything yourself to building a leadership team of experts that removes the founder as the limiting factor and allows a business to truly scale and thrive.
The 90% Rule in Life, Business, & Golf 5-27-26
In this episode, Scott Becker explains how operating at 90% instead of 100% can improve performance, balance, and relationships in business and life.
Amber Walsh on the VA, Veteran Healthcare, and the Business of the VHA 5-28-26
In this episode, Amber Walsh, Partner at McGuireWoods LLP, discusses the structure and scale of the Veterans Health Administration, the growing role of private providers and contractors within the VA system, and the policy and procurement dynamics shaping veteran healthcare
The 5 Largest US Companies by Revenue 5-27-26
In this episode, Scott Becker breaks down the five highest revenue-generating U.S. companies and discusses how giants like Amazon, Walmart, Apple, UnitedHealth Group, and Alphabet continue to dominate commerce and growth.
Building AI-Powered Finance Infrastructure for the Mid-Market with Nathan Freystaetter of Go Fig 5-27-26
In this episode, Nathan Freystaetter, CEO & Financial Analytics Engineer, Go Fig, joins the podcast to discuss how his company is helping mid-market CFOs modernize financial operations with AI-driven data infrastructure and automation.
Chief Executive Officers & Leadership 5-26-26
In this episode, Scott Becker shares key insights on leadership, team building, product market fit, and scaling businesses for long-term success.
Why Middle Market Companies Are Rethinking the CFO Role with Scott Moran of Sutker Moran 5-26-26
In this episode, Scott Moran, President, Sutker Moran Business Consulting & CFO Services, discusses the growing demand for outsourced CFO leadership, the impact of CPA shortages and AI on finance teams, and how middle market companies can access strategic financial expertise without building oversized internal teams.
Your Best Clients Treat You Like a Partner 5-25-26
In this episode, Scott Becker explains the difference between transactional client relationships and true trusted advisor partnerships.
When to Quit Your Day Job When Building a Business 5-24-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses the decision of when to leave a stable job for a startup.
Knowing Which Clients Not to Work With 5-23-26
In this episode, Scott Becker explains why successful businesses must be intentional about excluding difficult or low-value clients in order to protect team culture, maintain profitability, and focus on higher-value customers that drive sustainable growth.
Healthcare AI Stocks to Watch 5-22-26
In this episode, Scott Becker highlights public and private healthcare AI companies drawing attention for their innovation and growth potential.
5 Shout-Outs: EJ’s, Abigail’s, Hometown, Guildhall, & Three Tarts 5-21-26
In this episode, Scott Becker highlights standout Chicago businesses and leaders that have built strong cultures.
Why Great Leaders Need a “To Don’t” List with Liz Hutson of EGH, LLC 5-20-26
In this episode, Liz Hutson, Principal Consultant, Owner at EGH, LLC., shares why defining what not to focus on is essential for successful leadership, integration projects, and long term personal and professional growth.
The Musk Moment: Tesla, SpaceX, and X 5-20-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses Tesla’s recent stock drop, SpaceX’s expected public debut, and the ongoing debate around free speech and toxicity on X.
The Wealth Effect, Eating, & More 5-19-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses how market gains and personal progress can lead to overspending, overeating, and losing discipline.
The Markets, Inflation, Iran, & More 5-18-26
In this episode, Scott Becker breaks down the market selloff, rising inflation concerns tied to deficit spending and oil prices, and more.
Ritu Shah on Building ClostraBio and Advancing Gut Health Solutions 5-17-26
In this episode, Ritu Shah, Chief Executive Officer, ClostraBio, Inc., discusses building a biotech company focused on next-generation probiotics for gut health, IBS, IBD, and food allergies.
David Pivnick on Sports 5-16-26
In this episode, David Pivnick, Partner at McGuireWoods LLP, joins Scott Becker for a conversation on the NBA and NHL playoffs, the future of the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, and more.
Clarifying Life Through Simplicity 5-16-26
In this episode, Scott Becker reflects on simplifying life by removing distractions and becoming more selective with commitments.
Microsoft Continues to Stuggle 5-16-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses Microsoft’s recent market struggles despite strong leadership.
How to Approach Your First Job: Never Listen to the Boss 5-15-26
In this episode, Scott Becker shares candid advice for early career professionals on work ethic, reliability, and how managers quietly evaluate long-term potential.
Building High Performing Teams with Holly Buckley of McGuireWoods LLP 5-15-26
In this epiosde, Holly Buckley, Chair of Healthcare at McGuireWoods LLP, share insights on hiring, leadership, energy and resilience, and evaluating long term potential.
The Big 5 PE Funds & How They Are Struggling 5-14-26
In this episode, Scott Becker examines the challenges facing major private equity firms, highlighting how strong assets under management are being offset by a slowdown in traditional exits and weaker overall performance.
The Infinite Game Versus the Task List 5-14-26
In this episode, Scott Becker reflects on the endless cycle of task management, sharing lessons on protecting time and energy, and focusing on meaningful work.
Business Leader of the Month: Daniel Klapper of Fox & Chester 5-14-26
In this episode, Daniel Klapper, Founder, Fox & Chester, shares insights on scaling with speed, building strong operational infrastructure early, leveraging AI thoughtfully, and why trust, discipline, and legal strategy are critical for founders and fast-growing businesses.
Don’t Bet Against NVIDIA 5-13-26
In this episode, Scott Becker discusses Nvidia’s extraordinary growth, its soaring market cap and continued dominance in AI.
4 Concepts to Reduce Time in Meetings 5-13-26
In this episode, Scott Becker shares 4 practical strategies for managing time and energy more effectively.
Building a Third Generation Family Business Through Service and Innovation with Jake Stotter of Fenceworks 5-13-26
In this episode, Jake Stotter, Vice President, Fenceworks, Inc. “The Guy on 41”., discusses how the third generation family business has built lasting trust through personalized service, quality craftsmanship, and deep community roots in the Chicagoland area.
Palantir, KKR, & Intel: The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly 5-12-26
In this episode, Scott Becker examines the contrasting performances of Intel, Palantir, and major private equity firms like KKR.
