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.

Learn how private equity firms utilize operating partners to create value during the life cycle of an investment, including sourcing, diligence, execution, and strategic oversight, to differentiate in a competitive market.

This podcast episode will provide an overview on the rise and growth trends within the independent sponsor community and the advantages and disadvantages these firms face when breaking away from traditional private equity models. Trends show that more and more LP investors consider allocating capital to independent sponsor deals that present higher yield potential without the management fees and pooled investing restrictions that apply to fund offerings. While fundless sponsor models are gaining popularity and interest from broader capital markets, independent sponsors often face higher scrutiny to make up for the lack of committed capital and dry powder managed funds have at their disposal. Our panelists will share how the top independent sponsors across AM&AA’s network have overcome competitive adversities and best positioned themselves for long term success.

Failed deals represent costly sunk time—until they become valuable learning opportunities. This panel examines why processes collapse (valuation gaps, diligence surprises, structural issues) and how to reposition assets for successful relaunch. Deal veterans will share hard-won insights on retooling investment theses, rebuilding buyer momentum, and structuring around previous sticking points to maximize second-attempt success. Panelists will address today’s complex dynamics and how these factors

In M&A, culture is rarely measured—and often blamed. This keynote

cuts through the fluff to show why culture isn’t just part of the

deal… it is the deal. Using the proven framework—Leaders Create

Culture -> Culture Drives Behavior -> Behavior Delivers Results—

you’ll learn how to lead through change, not in spite of it.

You’ll also discover the Culture Calculator, a proprietary tool that

quantifies how culture influences retention, engagement, and

ultimately, EBITDA. Combined with insights from the Predictive

Index, this session demonstrates how cultural clarity and behavioral

analytics de-risk deals, accelerate integration, and lift valuation.

This isn’t theoretical. It’s measurable. It’s M&A math.

In this episode of the M&A Access Show, host Lindsey Wendler moderates a dynamic panel featuring Ryan Broyle, Dean Peterson, Aaron Pinegar, and Gregory Wilder. Together, they explore how external factors—like tariffs and evolving tax codes—can significantly shape the outcome of mergers and acquisitions. The discussion moves beyond theory, offering tactical advice for advisors, investors, and business owners navigating today's volatile deal landscape.

From international trade challenges to new regulatory rules and real-life case studies, the panel uncovers actionable insights to manage financial risk and optimize transactions. Whether you're actively engaged in M&A or keeping an eye on market trends, this episode is packed with practical intelligence.

In this premier episode of the M&A Access Show, we dive deep into how artificial intelligence is shaping the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) landscape—far beyond the buzz of ChatGPT. Host John Cohan moderates a roundtable featuring M&A leaders including Jacob Andra, Bill McCalpin, Justin Nelson, George Sandmann, and Dr. Sean Saunders. Together, they explore how AI is revolutionizing sourcing, underwriting, due diligence, and more.

Whether you’re skeptical or optimistic about AI, this episode offers grounded, practical insights from professionals on the frontlines of innovation in M&A.