Unlock the secrets of building an acquisition empire from someone who's done it well. In this exclusive interview, John Cerasuolo, CEO of Leap Partners, reveals the unconventional strategies and hard-won lessons that propelled his journey from the Naval Academy to leading a thriving home services network. If you're a parallel entrepreneur looking to scale or dreaming of launching your own network, this conversation is your blueprint for success.
Highlights include:
• His transformative journey from the Naval Academy to leading a multipreneur empire
• How Leap Partners was born out of a shared vision and 45+ acquisition successes
• Proven strategies for identifying quality businesses and integrating diverse cultures
• Lessons learned from early exits and the importance of “begin with the end in mind”
• The secret to balancing rapid growth, due diligence, and celebrating success
• Insights on building a people-first, family-centric company culture
• Rapid-fire insights on must-read books and what fuels his day-to-day drive
Whether you're running multiple businesses or planning your next big leap, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom for every ambitious entrepreneur.
Chapters List:
00:01:00 Introduction to John Cerasuolo and Leap Partners
00:02:06 Naval Academy: Forging a Leader
00:04:09 Leap Partners Genesis: From ADS Security to Home Services
00:08:31 Identifying Acquisition Opportunities
00:11:05 Integrating Cultures in Acquisitions
00:14:36 Exiting with Great M&A Advisors
00:18:17 Challenges in Due Diligence
00:20:07 Celebrating Success
00:23:03 Mindfulness and Daily Practices
00:24:18 Advice to His Younger Self
00:26:08 Learning from Each Other in Business
00:27:15 Navigating Talent Challenges in the Trades
00:29:21 Rapid Fire Insights
00:32:20 Recognition and Awards
00:33:03 Scaling a Culture of Happiness
00:34:20 Modeling Leadership Behavior
00:35:22 A Day in the Life of a CEO
00:36:48 Choosing the Right Financial Partners
00:38:09 Surrounding Yourself with Talent
00:39:22 Books that Inspire
00:40:21 Closing Thoughts on Life and Business
Show Notes: