How to Get Investors Onboard: What Founders Need to Know Part 2 with Stew Campbell

Stew Campbell, Partner at The Chernin Group

In Part 2, Stew Campbell returns to share tactical guidance for founders evaluating outside capital. We dive deep into how to run a founder-led investor process, what to watch for in term sheets, and how to build long-term wealth while scaling a founder-led business. Stew breaks down growth equity vs. private equity, investor diligence, and how to choose a partner who accelerates—not limits—your next chapter. This episode is a must-listen for any operator planning a recap, acquisition, or capital raise in the next 1–3 years.

Things You’ll Learn:

• How to run a founder-led competitive investor process

• What to ask when evaluating potential investors and term sheets

• How to align capital strategy with long-term wealth goals

• Ways great investors create real value beyond the check

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Episode Chapters

[00:04:00] - What happens when firms break process and push early

[00:05:00] - Building long-term relationships before you transact
[00:08:30] - IOI vs. LOI: How to solicit and compare offers

[00:09:30] - The three most important terms to negotiate

[00:12:30] - Founder control, redemption timelines, and board dynamics

[00:15:00] - Setting personal wealth goals alongside business strategy

[00:19:30] - Case study: How one founder gave back to their community

[00:21:30] - Challenging assumptions around recap timing

[00:27:00] - How to get the most value from investor advisors

[00:34:30] - Bootstrap vs. venture-backed founder mindsets

[00:46:30] - Craziest things seen in M&A: Founder stories & deal drama

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