From Founders to Future Leaders: Redefining Business Succession with Ron Ondechek Jr.

👥 Growth Capital Podcast — Episode 54 👥



In this episode of the Growth Capital Podcast, host Justin Dixon sits down with Ron Ondechek Jr., Founder & Managing Director of South Highland Ventures, to unpack how his firm is redefining what business succession looks like for the next generation.



Ron shares how his partnership with Novastone Partners has created a first-of-its-kind model that pairs experienced operators with legacy businesses—preserving jobs, culture, and decades of founder-built success. Together, they explore why the $10 trillion “succession gap” is one of the most overlooked investment opportunities of our time.

🔍 Key Topics Discussed:



• The $10 trillion opportunity behind America’s succession crisis


• How South Highland Ventures and Novastone’s 10-step model pairs capital with leadership


• Why legacy and long-term growth can outperform short-term returns


• How “operator-led entrepreneurship” is transforming private equity


• What experienced leaders look for when taking over founder-led companies






💬 Connect with Ron Ondechek Jr.:


🔗 LinkedIn:   / rondechek  

📧 Email: [email protected]

🏢 Company: South Highland Ventures (https://www.linkedin.com/company/sout...)



If you believe the next wave of growth comes from preserving what’s already great, this episode is for you.



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How do you define smart succession?