Hard Lessons, Resilience, and the Future of ETA

In this episode of the ETA Insider Podcast, Jason Jackson shares his journey from first discovering ETA at the 2014 Booth-Kellogg Conference to navigating the highs and lows of running a search fund-backed business. He discusses the challenges of acquiring a dental support business in a competitive, PE-driven market—and the unexpected discovery of fraud just weeks into ownership. Jason reflects on how focusing on cash, communication, and culture helped him and his partner lead through crisis. He also discusses the founding of the Black Search Network, his work at Futaleufu Partners, and why systematic mentorship and CEO health are crucial for long-term success.