In this episode of the Business Growth Podcast, Steve Preda meets with Ian Leaman, Summit OS® Guide, to discuss the hard-won lessons he’s learned from following more than 100 exit journeys.
During this interview, Ian shares a case study illustrating how leadership blind spots and misaligned incentives can devastate exit outcomes. He also explains his Can-Do Framework, a mindset blueprint inspired by the contrast between European “can’t-do” thinking and America’s bold, frontier-style optimism.
Together, Ian and Steve explore how Summit OS® empowers owners to achieve “private equity–level growth without giving up private equity,” and why the 45-Day Execution Momentum plan creates faster change than a typical 100-day private equity program.
In this episode, Rachel League interviews Ian Leaman, a seasoned business coach and fractional CFO, who shares insights on helping companies grow and successfully exit. They discuss the common challenges entrepreneurs face, the importance of understanding one’s ‘why’, and the strategies that lead to successful business scaling. Ian emphasizes the significance of people in business, effective time management, and the integration of technology in consulting. He also shares his approach to onboarding clients and the personal satisfaction he derives from their success.
In this episode of Future Proof, Brent Muller speaks with business growth coach Ian Leaman about the impact of AI on business growth, the importance of learning from failures, and effective strategies for navigating uncertainty in today’s business landscape. Ian shares his journey from finance to coaching, real-world applications of AI in businesses, and the significance of being exit-ready. The conversation also touches on communication strategies, scaling businesses, and the role of AI in enhancing operational efficiency.
You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Have you ever wondered how private equity investors grow their portfolio companies? When they invest in small businesses, they aim to triple the value within 3–5 years before selling it to a strategic buyer or another private equity fund.
Summit OS® was created by Steve Preda, a post-exit entrepreneur, business coach, and author, to help business owners build growing and thriving companies.
Implement 15 Business Growth Practices to:
✔️ Empower your Team,
✔️ Execute Like Hell, and
✔️ Dig a Moat Around Your Business.

