Deal Us In

Hosted by McGuireWoods

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Oct 2026

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Deal Us In is a podcast brought to you by McGuireWoods. Deal Us In promotes the advancement of women in private equity and finance through conversations with women leaders and rising stars in the private equity and finance space. These conversations provide both insights and practical takeaways to inform your deal work and enhance the culture of your organization. If you’re ready to drive the industry toward a more inclusive and diverse environment then, it’s time to come to the table. If you have a recommendation for an inspiring interviewee, a question you’d like us to ask, or topic you would like to hear covered, or if you’d like to tell us about women-focused initiatives in the field, please go to our website at www.mcguirewoods.com/podcasts/deal-us-in. This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

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46 recent

October 15, 202619 min

Moving Legal From Roadblock to Business Partner, with Melissa Szabad

In-house lawyers are often viewed as roadblocks, and Melissa Szabad knows why: "The easiest thing is to say no, but that's not always the best thing for the business team." After 20-plus years at McGuireWoods, Melissa joined Regent Surgical in 2021 as its first general counsel. Today, she supports the fast-growing surgery center management company as hospitals move more complex cases into surgery centers. In this conversation with host Ann Dorsett , Melissa explains how her legal team earns the trust of business partners, when to bring in outside counsel, and why early anti-kickback training for business teams pays off. Tune in to learn how to manage real risk without standing in the way of growth. Connect and Learn More ☑️ Melissa Szabad | Linkedin ☑️ Regent Surgical | LinkedIn ☑️ Ann Dorsett | LinkedIn ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

March 18, 202625 min

Building a Lower Middle-Market Credit Powerhouse, with Marilyn Adler and Liddy Karter

Marilyn Adler and Liddy Karter identified a gap where credit fund managers were getting larger and the lower middle market was getting ignored. They combined forces to “really go after the market,” forming Mizzen Capital . “We'll start with a company when it's two to five million of EBITDA and then help them with add-on acquisitions to get to their target EBITDA,” Marilyn says. Liddy adds: ”The steady returns come from diversification. We can pivot from one of several sectors.” In this conversation with host Ann Dorsett , the co-founders and managing partners describe their complementary backgrounds and their approach. Tune in as they reveal how they keep leverage low with their portfolio companies, why diverse teams price risk better, and when a warm referral from an aerospace CEO turned into a three-year relationship. Connect and Learn More ☑️ Liddy Karter | LinkedIn ☑️ Marilyn Adler | LinkedIn ☑️ Mizzen Capital | LinkedIn ☑️ Ann Dorsett | LinkedIn ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

November 13, 202541 min

Opening Doors for Emerging Managers, with Raudline Etienne

Raudline Etienne remembers seeing a Knight Foundation report that said the percentage of assets that minority and women-owned firms manage in aggregate was less than 2% of a multi-trillion dollar industry. “I found it to be offensive,” she recalls in this conversation with host Ann Terrell Dorsett . “I realized that there was so much talent out there that wasn't getting the opportunity and the fact that I was willing to be first was something that would help move the ball forward.” Raudline ’s solution was to create Daraja Capital , a seeding platform that lowers the barriers of entry for aspiring fund managers. Tune in for her practical wisdom about building institutional relationships, creating wealth through diversity, and mentoring underrepresented talent. Connect and Learn More ☑️ Raudline Etienne | LinkedIn ☑️ Daraja Capital | LinkedIn ☑️ Ann Dorsett | LinkedIn ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

July 22, 202539 min

Keeping Business Resource Groups Useful and Fun, with Kristine Parker and Chrystal Pozin

Kristine Parker and Chrystal Pozin reveal how they transformed the Women's Business Resource Group at Fifth Third Bank during the pandemic. It started with an introspective look at what the group wanted, they explain to host Casey Nelson . Then, they restructured the group around four key themes: personal connections, advancement and advocacy, philanthropy, and self-care. Tune in for their insights about creating inclusive communities, overcoming budget constraints, and building networks that truly serve their members. Connect and Learn More ☑️ Chrystal Pozin ☑️ Kristine Parker ☑️ Fifth Third Bank | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube | TikTok ☑️ Casey Nelson | LinkedIn ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

May 15, 202535 min

How Women’s World Banking Unlocks Billions in Hidden Revenue, with Mary Ellen Iskenderian

Mary Ellen Iskenderian of Women's World Banking shares her journey from traditional finance to leading global women's financial inclusion efforts. Drawing on 18 years as president and CEO, Mary Ellen explains how Women's World Banking evolved from its founding at the first UN women's conference to become both an NGO and an impact-focused asset manager. With hosts Penny Zacharias and Casey Nelson , Mary Ellen discusses how digital technology transformed financial inclusion during the pandemic, helping reach 86 million women with vital financial services. She reveals the $700 billion opportunity that financial institutions miss by not serving women as viable customers and shares insights on how gender-focused investment drives both social impact and strong business returns. Connect and Learn More ☑️ Mary Ellen Iskenderian | LinkedIn ☑️ Women's World Banking | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube ☑️ Penny Zacharias | LinkedIn ☑️ Casey Nelson | LinkedIn ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

March 18, 202517 min

Investing in Emerging Markets: Challenges and Payoffs, with Hannah Schiff

Hannah Schiff of Developing World Markets navigates the delicate balance between meaningful impact and competitive financial returns in emerging markets investing. Drawing on her decade of experience in impact investing, Hannah shares how DWM directs capital through local entrepreneurs who understand their communities' needs. With host Penny Zacharias , Hannah addresses investor skepticism by highlighting how impact is embedded in successful business models. She also reflects on inspiration from female leaders like Jacqueline Novogratz and discusses trends, including innovative approaches to help vulnerable populations build resilience against climate change through technology and targeted financing. Connect and Learn More ☑️ Hannah Schiff | LinkedIn ☑️ Developing World Markets | LinkedIn ☑️ Penny Zacharias | LinkedIn ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

February 18, 202553 min

Things Nobody Told Women in Finance about Self-Advocacy

Hosts Casey Nelson and Kelly Wray invite three guests for their insights about how women in finance and law can advocate for themselves. Linda Filardi of Flagstar Bank , Jess Yovich at BMO Commercial Bank , and McGuireWoods ’ colleague Gretchen Townshend recall their own journeys to guide others. Among their suggested strategies: documenting accomplishments throughout the year, cultivating mentors, and getting the data that shows why people were promoted. They also remind women not to fall into the trap of thinking that self-advocacy is “bragging.” Connect and Learn More ☑️ Linda Filardi | LinkedIn ☑️ Flagstar Bank | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Jess Yovich | LinkedIn ☑️ BMO Commercial Bank | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | X ☑️ Gretchen Townshend | LinkedIn ☑️ Casey Nelson | LinkedIn ☑️ Kelly Wray | LinkedIn ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

January 21, 202532 min

Grabbing the Bull by the Horns as an Independent Sponsor, with Chelsea Celistan

To underrepresented independent sponsors, Chelsea Celistan has a simple message: “There is a large market that you can do really well in. Full stop.” The head of Independent Sponsor and Company Direct Investment Strategy at Avante Capital Partners , Chelsea shares her encouraging vision in this conversation with host Phyllis Young . She also details challenges and strategies, emphasizing the need for discipline in finding the right deal, choosing the right partner, and creating value. Ultimately, “it's really just the people who are going to come in and grab the bull by its horns and kind of drive to make it happen. I think that's going to be who tends to win in this space,” she says. Connect and Learn More ☑️ Chelsea Celistan | LinkedIn ☑️ Avante Capital Partners | LinkedIn ☑️ Phyllis Young ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

December 23, 202434 min

Take Your Seat at the Table, with Kenna Craver

The two parties in the deal had different priorities, but Kenna Craver managed conflict by leveraging a superpower unique to women in private equity: fostering collaboration and trust. The founder and managing partner of private investment firm Kamel Capital, Kenna encourages women in finance to recognize those strengths and more, including being “queens of multitasking.” In this conversation with host Phyllis Young , she also advises women not to wait for permission to take their seat at the table. “Build your skills and network strategically and be relentless in pursuing your goals,” she suggests. Connect and Learn More ☑️ Kenna Craver | LinkedIn ☑️ Kamel Capital ☑️ Phyllis Young ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.

October 2, 202440 min

Women in Finance Can Overcome Challenges at Work; Here’s How

From mentors to hybrid work schedules to checking biases at the door, strategies for navigating workplace challenges are accessible but often require buy-in from colleagues and management. Five McGuireWoods women attorneys at various stages of their careers offer these insights and more in this episode of Deal Us In . New hosts Kelly Wray and Casey Nelson join frequent hosts Ann Terrell Dorsett , Phyllis Young , and Kelsey Hitchcock for a conversation about lifestyle choices and career trajectories of women in private equity and finance. Sharing personal and professional anecdotes, the hosts cover topics ranging from taking care of children and aging parents to leveraging technology for on-the-job flexibility. Connect and Learn More ☑️ Ann Terrell Dorsett ☑️ Phyllis Young ☑️ Kelly Wray ☑️ Casey Nelson ☑️ Kelsey Hitchcock ☑️ McGuireWoods | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X ☑️ Subscribe Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music This podcast was recorded and is being made available by McGuireWoods for informational purposes only. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that McGuireWoods makes no warranty, guarantee or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in the podcast. The views, information or opinions expressed during this podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect those of McGuireWoods. This podcast should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed professional attorney in your state and should not be construed as an offer to make or consider any investment or course of action.