The episode of the Job Calls Podcast, Adam Loveridge sits down with Chris Gist from Paradise Home Services to discuss his unique success story with private equity acquisition. Chris shares how Paradise Home Services grew from $1.2 million to nearly $6 million in just three years before being acquired by Leap Service Partners, and why this PE-backed transition has been a positive experience for both the company culture and employees. The conversation explores the importance of maintaining company culture during acquisitions, developing leadership through PE resources, and how being selective about your acquirer can lead to successful outcomes in the home services industry.

0:00 - Create Happiness Philosophy

0:40 - Introduction to Job Calls Podcast

1:17 - Welcome Chris Gist

2:39 - Chris's Background Story

4:00 - Paradise Plumbing Origins

5:04 - Company Growth Journey

7:15 - Culture as Growth Catalyst

9:25 - Core Values Discussion

11:48 - Five-Year Exit Strategy

14:52 - Service World Convention

17:17 - Choosing Leap Service Partners

19:45 - Benefits of PE Partnership

22:13 - Rising Leaders Program

25:52 - Marketing Department Support

27:36 - Leadership Development Success

31:07 - Networking with Legacy Owners

33:45 - Acquisition Horror Stories

36:21 - Due Diligence Advice

39:12 - Interviewing PE Firms

42:28 - Culture-First Approach

45:16 - Hawaiian Shirt Uniforms

48:03 - Company Meeting Traditions

50:41 - Contact Information

53:29 - Final Advice