CEO Global Network Podcast
🎙 Hosted by John Wilson, founder of CEO Global Network and author of GREAT CEOs and How They Are Made, this podcast delivers powerful insights for CEOs and executives looking to grow as leaders and drive lasting success.
Each episode features candid conversations with high-performing business leaders, expert speakers, and industry trailblazers—all focused on sharpening your leadership edge, building resilient companies, and improving your life, your team, and your impact.
Join a community of CEOs helping CEOs succeed.
CEO Global Network Podcast
Eric Phaneuf, President & CEO of Walter Capital Partners - How Private Equity Can Be a True Operating Partner
In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Eric Phaneuf, President & CEO of Walter Capital Partners, to explore how private equity can go beyond capital and become a true operating partner to entrepreneurs. Eric shares key insights from his journey leading companies like Cascades and Mega Brands, scaling across sectors, and building a PE firm rooted in trust, operational excellence, and long-term partnership.
Eric discusses how Walter Capital blends capital deployment with deep operational support, the emotional intelligence required to lead through transitions, and the powerful impact of peer-to-peer CEO learning. He also opens up about one of his most meaningful deals in the funeral services space and what it taught him about leadership and value creation.
Whether you're a CEO navigating growth or a founder looking for the right investment partner, this episode offers practical wisdom from the front lines of leadership and private equity.
John Wilson (00:00)
Welcome to the CEO Global Network podcast, Eric. It is great to have you with us. Thank you so much for making the time to be with us. We really appreciate it.
Eric Phaneuf (00:08)
Thank you, John. Thanks for having me.
John Wilson (00:10)
Now, Eric, you've led Walter Capital since the founding years. What was your original vision for Walter Capital and how has it evolved over the past 10 years?
Eric Phaneuf (00:22)
When we founded Walter Capital Partner in 2015, the vision was really to create a firm that not only provided financial backing, but also acted as a true partner for entrepreneurs...
John Wilson (01:39)
Capital Partners emphasizes both the capital side and the operational know-how side. How does that dual approach show up in your work with the entrepreneurs?
Eric Phaneuf (02:27)
Now our reputation is very clear—we’re truly hands-on and very collaborative...
John Wilson (03:58)
You’ve experienced scaling companies across a number of sectors. Is there one deal or one particular investment that you made that has helped shape your leadership?
Eric Phaneuf (04:01)
Each company brings success and learnings, but if I have to name one, it would be my investment in the funeral service industry...
John Wilson (05:36)
You've got experience with Cascades, Mega Brands, and now Walter Capital Partners. What's your approach to navigating major transitions?
Eric Phaneuf (05:52)
Navigating transitions—whether organizational, sectoral, or structural—requires adaptability and constant learning...
John Wilson (07:46)
I know how important people are for you. You recently held the first CEO Summit with your leaders. Was there a particular takeaway from that summit that stuck with you?
Eric Phaneuf (08:11)
The CEO Summit was a milestone. One thing I took away was how invaluable peer-to-peer learning really is...
John Wilson (09:18)
Last question for you, Eric. What role does emotional intelligence play in leading portfolio companies today?
Eric Phaneuf (09:33)
The role is more important than ever. EQ is now the cornerstone of effective leadership at Walter...
John Wilson (11:06)
Eric, I can't thank you enough for being on the CEO Global Network podcast... Thank you so much. This was just outstanding.
Eric Phaneuf (11:08)
Thank you, John. Always a pleasure.
