Libsyn Directory

"Once Again”- building an Investment Advisory Business not once but twice and then “Paying it Forward” with Fred DiSanto (EP 6) S2

Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

Release Date: 03/25/2025

From Consulting to Crafting Wine: Life After Business Exit with Brian Zawada (EP 8) S2

Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, host Mark Dorman sits down with Brian Zawada—a seasoned business continuity and operational resilience expert, entrepreneur, author, and now boutique winemaker. Brian shares his incredible journey from serving as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Air Force to co-founding Evolution Consulting, scaling the business, and navigating a successful private equity-backed exit. Today, he’s living a new chapter as the co-founder of Violet Vines, crafting exceptional Oregon wines. This episode is packed with insights on risk management, leadership,...

How to Leverage Exit Planning for Business and Personal Freedom with Renee Russo (EP 7) S2

Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Host Mark Dorman interviews Renee Russo, a dynamic CEO, coach, exit planner, and speaker from Melbourne, Australia, now based in Vancouver, Canada. Rene shares her journey from corporate accounting at KPMG to becoming a sought-after business coach and exit planner. She dives into how her personal challenges and professional pivots led her to develop an innovative approach to business freedom and growth. Renee's story highlights resilience, transformation, and the power of leveraging proven processes to turn chaos into clarity. She is passionate about...

"Once Again”- building an Investment Advisory Business not once but twice and then “Paying it Forward” with Fred DiSanto (EP 6) S2

Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman interviews Fred DiSanto, Chairman and CEO of Ancora Investments. Fred shares his inspiring journey from playing college sports to building a $10 billion investment firm. He discusses pivotal career moments, including his transition from institutional sales to founding Ancora, the challenges of scaling the business, and the strategies that have driven its success. Fred emphasises the importance of strong relationships, assembling top-tier talent, and offering innovative solutions like activism and alternative investments to...

Economic Tightropes: Inflation, Tax Cuts, and Government Efficiency with Robert Brant Hammer (EP 5) S2

Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

In this episode of Finish Big, Mark Dorman engages with Brant Hammer, a finance professor and investment expert, to discuss the pressing economic challenges of inflation and their impact on businesses. They dive into Biden’s economic policies, Trump’s potential strategies for growth, and actionable insights for entrepreneurs to build strong succession plans. This conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for business leaders navigating a rapidly evolving economy. Mark and Robert discuss: WVU’s Student Managed Investment Fund gives students real world investment experience....

The 4D's & 3 What's of Business Succession Planning (EP 4) S2

Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

What are some of the most common pitfalls family business owners face when planning for "The Four D’s," and how can they proactively address them? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman sits down with James Aussem, a distinguished attorney specialising in succession planning, mergers, and acquisitions. Together, they explore the challenges of planning for “The Four D’s”—Death, Disability, Departure, and Discord—and share actionable strategies for family businesses to navigate transitions successfully. James discusses his journey from a tax attorney at Ernst &...

The Value of University-based Private & Family Business Centers (EP 3) S2

Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

Why do some family businesses thrive for generations while others struggle with succession and longevity? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman hosts Carol Butler, President of the Garing Center for Family and Private Business at the University of Cincinnati, North America’s largest university-based family business center. Together, they discuss how the Garing Center supports family-owned businesses with resources that drive growth, resilience, and community. Carol shares her journey from a Fortune 500 executive to a key player in family business support, emphasizing...

How Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) Benefit Business Owners (EP 2) S2

Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

Are you a business owner considering an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) or exploring succession strategies? In this episode of the Finish Big Podcast, Mark Dorman delves into ESOP financing, discussing how bank and seller financing typically work together, and the potential advantages of mezzanine loans. Gain insights into tax implications, the role of ESOP trustees, and how these plans can benefit both the business and the community. This week’s guest, Kelly Finnell, President of Executive Financial Services Inc., offers his expertise on ESOPs. He covers essential topics such as the...

Maximizing Business Value and LinkedIn Connections With John D. Hanson. (EP 1) S2

Finish Big 2.0 w/ Mark Dorman

Are you a business owner looking to maximize the value of your enterprise and grow your client base? This episode of the Finish Big podcast offers actionable insights and practical advice to help you achieve your business goals. This week's guest, John D. Hanson, an award-winning author and expert in customer service, shares his journey from zero LinkedIn contacts to over 30,000. John discusses optimizing client relationships, leveraging LinkedIn for networking, and the power of video content. Learn about his strategies for maintaining client engagement and his approach to customer...

More Episodes

Fred emphasises the importance of strong relationships, assembling top-tier talent, and offering innovative solutions like activism and alternative investments to differentiate in a competitive market. Fred also highlights his commitment to fostering a culture of ownership, sharing equity with nearly 40 employees during a significant liquidity event in 2021. He reflects on his philanthropic efforts, supporting institutions like Saint Ignatius High School and Case Western Reserve University, and his vision for Ancora's future—focusing on growth, client satisfaction, and community impact. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, succession planning, and building a lasting legacy.

Mark and Fred discuss:

Relationships Matter: Strong client and team relationships fuel growth.
Stand Out: Differentiation through unique services drives success.
Shared Ownership Wins: Employee equity fosters loyalty and growth.
Community Impact: Supporting education and diversity builds a lasting legacy.
Plan Ahead: Succession planning ensures stability and continued growth.

Connect with Mark Dorman:

Connect with Fred DeSanto
● LinkedIn

About the Guest:

Fred DiSanto is the Chairman and CEO of Ancora Investments, a leading Midwest-based investment firm managing over $10 billion in assets. With decades of experience in finance, Fred has built a reputation for innovation, leadership, and fostering strong client relationships. A graduate of Case Western Reserve University, Fred is passionate about talent development, philanthropy, and driving growth through proprietary strategies like activism and alternative investments. His dedication to community and excellence has made him a respected figure in the financial industry.

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