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Nicholas McLean

@NickFourPillars

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Four Pillars is a private equity firm that invests in and operates businesses in the lower middle market.

5925 Beverly Ave Mission, KS
Joined May 2023
Don't wanna be here? Send us removal request.
@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
@HealthcareREguy Think if the CEO asked his team why they didn't respond to you. I would love to hear their responses!
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
@bentigg One of the most interesting aspects of being in PE is learning about all these niche businesses that are hugely profitable but fly well under the radar.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
But here’s the secret: you don’t need to become an overnight millionaire or founder of a Unicorn in order to build wealth.The tried and true principles are still true: invest and play the long game. 3/4
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
Learn more about the inner workings of #privateequity , how we see the markets and a whole lot more on our @YouTube channel. Subscribe today!
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
If you’d like to learn more about M&A trends in 2024, make sure to watch my video here:
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
4 months
Asking the tough questions: Who are really the top earning QBs in the @NFL ? The answers might surprise you.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
In this video, I explain why I believe entrepreneurship through acquisition (aka buying a business) is an incredible approach to building generational wealth. It’s not easy or quick — but the potential reward is incredibly high. 4/4
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
2 months
Persistence is the most important quality for any entrepreneur to have. I like to think of persistence and success compared to a PGA golf tournament. You could be watching the tournament and the leaders could be at 10 or 12 under.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
@FetaFund @guessworkinvest @CTW_SMB @RegZeller @smblawgroup @lawyer4SMBs I wasn’t thrilled with this outcome either but the last term sheet I got for a $3M+ EBITDA business in the healthcare space with subscription revenue required a PG.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
3 months
Let's talk about rising #housing costs and the surprising factors that are behind the soaring expenses that homeowners are facing. #mortgage #finance
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
How do you go from selling 300 sandwiches a day to 10 million? Here are 3 growth strategies that shaped @Subway ’s journey to becoming the world’s largest fast-food chain 1/4
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
No matter what, except operators will succeed in this complex environment by navigating uncertainties skillfully and charting a course for growth. Do you agree or disagree? What trends are you seeing in M&A this year that we should note? 7/8
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
3 months
What do #realestate agents not want you to know about the home buying / selling process? You might be surprised.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
9 months
Did you know that the concept of a five-day work week dates back to the 1600s in Europe and Asia? But it was Henry Ford who made it popular in the U.S. a century ago. Is the four-day workweek just a dream, or could it be an achievable reality?
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
4 months
Business owners are stubborn. They probably think their business is attractive to private equity just because it exists. If so, don’t read my e-book. For the rest of you...
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
@STLChrisH Some business owners we talk to are proud that they don't have any debt. I get that. That being said, I prefer your strategy and approach.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
Dart Casting is a high-pressure aluminum die casting company whose second-generation owners wanted to diversify risk while partnering with a group that could help the company achieve growth. Here's their story. #M &A #smallbusiness
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
The secret to building successful relationships in business is simple. Do what you say and say what you do.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
4 months
The @IRS Cracks Down on Wealthy Taxpayers and Enforcement Actions Increase #irs #tax #taxes
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
3 months
Start planning your small business exit strategy before you need to in order to ensure a seamless transition for your #smallbusiness . #privateequity #SMB
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
#Influence is one of the most important qualities for a #CEO to have. As a leader, it's essential to motivate and inspire others to achieve shared goals. Reading "Instant Influence" gave me six practical questions to help turn a “no” to a “yes.”
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
3 months
Sometimes Failure is a Good Thing - The Winner's Curse #failure #success #motivation
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
Take a look at how Southwest Steel, a legacy manufacturing business in the Midwest, has thrived under #privateequity ownership. x
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
Kirkland brand has more sales than Macy's and Nordstrom combined, More than 850 stores worldwide with 304,000 employees, Annual membership has a 92.7% yearly renewal rate, One of the largest pizza, wine, and hot dog sellers in the world...
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
At Four Pillars we believe that strong relationships are the cornerstone for success as individuals and the company as a whole. To build strong relationships, we refer to our motto, “Do what you say and say what you do.” By living our motto, we help to develop mutual trust.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
"Sellers remorse" is all too common in M&A, but it doesn't have to be that way.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
What trends in the #M &A world should you be following in the new year? While I’d love to sum it up easily, there’s a key learning I’ve learned in the 15 years I’ve worked in #privateequity : it’s always a risk to over generalize. 1/8
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
15 years in #privateequity I've learned a few things. Here's a look at how to get your career going in #PE .
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
Here are my rules for #smallbusiness considering working with #privateequity : Research potential partners, assess their track record, and ensure their vision aligns with yours.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
🔍 One key 2024 M&A trend to watch: Valuation tug-of-war: Sellers seek higher prices amid inflation and recent growth, while cautious buyers fear overpaying in anticipation of a potential downturn. 6/8
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
Craft a stellar marketing plan to showcase your business to potential buyers. Focus on strengths and areas for growth. #MarketingStrategy #BusinessSale
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
@PrivatEquityGuy Completely agree. We had a deal for which EBITDA declined 10% over a 2-month period, and our forecast (since sellers wouldn't provide one) showed further declines of about 20%. We had to re-trade the deal.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
Here’s what generational wealth looks like: Having enough to pass down to future generations / Maybe enough to have a down payment or even buy a house / Assets to pass on to your kids and the generation after thatGiving your family a sense of stability and security. 2/4
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
Ready to sell your #business ? Begin by evaluating your business's worth and highlight the unique selling points that make it stand out. Know your value before you sell. #SellYourBusiness #BusinessValuation
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
Thinking ahead to the future of your small biz? Secure your hard work for generations to come with savvy succession planning. Start today at #LegacyPlanning #Smallbusiness
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
4 months
Whether you envision basking on a beach, passing the reins to a passionate successor, or embarking on a new venture, a well-crafted exit plan ensures your small business's legacy flourishes, leaving you with more than just memories.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
3 months
#Retail Crime Across the US: The Most and Least Impacted States & Average Losses for #SmallBusinesses .
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
@SteveWiesnerSMB I read an article from the WSJ about how the college vs. trades debate was evidence of "luxury beliefs." The author said his classmates would espouse a certain belief but have no intention of following it personally.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
We believe that the essence of servant leadership is that each individual should seek to serve the greater good. That might mean meeting a project deadline, cultivating a new sales prospect, or developing an individual. #privateequity
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
@SouthwestAirlines commenting on my post…probably the closest I will ever come to being famous. Thank you for watching and commenting though!
@SouthwestAir
Southwest Airlines
7 months
@NickFourPillars Thanks for the kind words, Nicholas. 💙❤️💛 -Tiara
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
@CBarrett_CPA If you are feeling slightly passive aggressive, you could always add an earn-out to your offer and tie it to the projections in the CIM. Spoiler alert: the projections get revised downward.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
@taywall All PE firms are NOT created equally lol. Selling your business is the beginning of a new partnership. Pick your new partner carefully. Looks like you found a great one!
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
2 months
Why is Margot Robbie Hanging Out at Secret Parties with @ElonMusk , @BillGates , Sam Altman etc? @sama
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
@MarginCFO I feel like this would be sacrilegious to some folks in private equity.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
We started Four Pillars based on our shared values and what we want our company to stand for: We purchase and operate small businesses with the intention of owning the business for the long-term.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
Abundant sellers: A surge in businesses hitting the market as seasoned entrepreneurs eye retirement, offering ripe opportunities for acquisitions. Post-pandemic prosperity: Many businesses are thriving post-pandemic, contributing to a robust M&A environment. 3/8
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
3 months
Persistence is the most important quality for any #entrepreneur to have. I like to think of persistence and success compared to a @PGA golf tournament.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
Remember, succession planning is an ongoing process. Continuously adapt, learn, and seek opportunities to grow your small business, before it's time to think about the exit. #Smallbusiness #M &A
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
9 months
Leadership transition at a family business can be challenging. Succession planning, open communication, and mentorship can make the process seamless. #FamilyBusiness #LeadershipTransition
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
Planning your exit strategy? Ensure a seamless transition for your #Smallbusiness . Explore options at #privateequity #SMB
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
One of my biggest career goals has been to generate a level of financial success that will allow me to give back — both to my community and to my family. 1/4
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
@mhp_guy I have been looking at numerous QSR brands as of late, particularly in the sandwich space. The JJ margin profile is interesting. Assuming that is four-wall you quoted, I would have expected it to be higher based on my knowledge of a competing brand.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
3 months
The Rise of Remote and Hybrid Work: How Commercial #RealEstate Has Changed Forever #remotework #economy
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
11 months
One of the most interesting companies I've looked at is Southwest Airlines. I recently made a video on this 👇 #business #Casestudy #southwest #Entrepreneurship
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
Entrepreneurship & investment can be intimidating but it so important for growth. Let's break it down: 1.Risk Mitigation 2.Adaptive Strategies 3.Knowledge Empowerment 4.Networking 5.Learning from Setbacks. To learn more, reach out to me!
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
@SouthwestAir Absolutely, @SouthwestAir thanks for commenting!
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
4 months
One #business lesson I learned a long time ago -- the owners / founder who could most benefit from my book on #smallbusiness M&A likely won't read it.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
2 months
Commercial #RealEstate Crisis: The Impact of the #Pandemic on US #Downtowns and Cities #sanfrancisco
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
People are often surprised by how #introverted @Apple CEO @Tim Cook is. He isn't the only one.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
4 months
Transition with confidence. Get the key to successful small business succession planning here ➡️ #SMB #LegacyPlanning
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
@SteveWiesnerSMB I did a whole video on an offshoot of #3 , how as an entrepreneur you can feel like a failure for having to stress about making payroll at time but most (all) face it at some point.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
Is the four-day work week just a dream, or could it be an achievable reality? I break down the fascinating evolution of the workweek, what the future may look like, and the pros and cons for embracing change.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
My goal is to empower entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools necessary for growth, guiding them towards long-term succes. Reach out to me today: #InvestmentKnowledge #Entrepreneurs #Business #PrivateEquity
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
@STLChrisH Another positive to this approach is that if you can "improve" the warts, the business will likely be stronger and worth more, even if there aren't plans to sell.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
6 months
Interesting take by CEO John Chidsey. My take is that the ROI consideration around remodels is NOT that sales will increase, but instead it will reduce the number of customers lost to other brands/concepts.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
My takeaways: 1) Branding matters. 2) Find ways to implement the influence concept in your business: commitment and consistency. 3) Low prices don’t have to equal low value. 4) Experiment and find ways to do the unexpected.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
What’s consistent Y/Y? #Privateequity resilience: Despite uncertainties, private equity firms still have the dry powder to transact. Growth challenges: Hurdles like labor costs and supply chain disruptions remains a constant struggle for businesses striving for growth. 5/8
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
2 months
The Shocking Truth About Bag Fees: How #Airlines Made $7B from Charging for Bags in 2023 #southwest @Southwest @United @Delta
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
9 months
Do you know how the 'Quiznos' name came to be? Why are they not doing as well as brands like Subway? I go into detail on my new YouTube video: #quiznos #subway #qsr #restaurantbusiness #franchise #casestudy
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
5 months
@franklinideas I agree with all that. That is why I always bristle a bit at his position. EBITDA or adjusted EBITDA is just a starting point.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
11 months
What's the number 1 way to build generational wealth? The best and one of the only ways in my experience is to build a business. Check out my full YouTube video where I go into detail on this: #wealth #business #finance #Entrepreneurship
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
@stephenolmon I wouldn't beat yourself up about that one. Seems like the other side could have handled this better too. But what do I know.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
3 months
Do You Know Where @Target 's Name Originated? What Makes Them Successful? You'll never guess. #target #retail
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
7 months
@stephenolmon Sure but you probably did do a good job on the demo and they probably did like it. So I would say you were confident but your comments didn't rise to the level of arrogance based on what you wrote.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
4 months
Biden has proposed another student loan debt plan... here's a look at what it might mean.
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@NickFourPillars
Nicholas McLean
8 months
Curious about how private equity works with small businesses? It can provide growth capital, operational expertise, strategic guidance and more. #privateequity #smallbusiness
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