Webinar: Strategic Debt: Turning Leverage into Growth
Virtual Event
Wednesday, December 09, 2026
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
iCalendar
Central Standard Time
NFDA Webinar (1 CE Hour)
Free for Members
This presentation will explore how business owners and entrepreneurs can effectively leverage debt to drive growth and achieve long-term success. Whether through acquisitions, business expansion, or other strategic initiatives, proper use of debt can be a powerful tool to unlock potential. We will provide actionable insights and case studies to demonstrate the positive impact of well-structured debt strategies. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of how to align debt usage with their business goals and maximize their return on investment.
Key Takeaways
Upon completion of program, participants will be better able to:
- Understanding Debt as a Tool: Learn how debt, when used strategically, can fuel growth rather than hinder it.
- Evaluating ROI on Debt: Gain insights into analyzing when debt makes sense and how to measure its impact on your business.
- Case Studies: Explore how leveraging debt increases value and growth as well as challenges and key lessons learned.
- Building a Debt Strategy: Develop a practical plan to approach lenders, structure debt deals, and ensure long-term financial health.
Presenter:
Jake Johnson is President and CEO of Johnson Consulting Group and brings extensive experience in funeral service operations, financial analysis and business development. He began his career with Keystone Group Holdings as Associate Director of Corporate Development, where his responsibilities included financial analysis, forecasting, bank and equity partner presentations, and supporting acquired funeral homes. He later gained hands-on experience in funeral directing, arranging, funeral home management and cemetery operations at Palm Mortuaries and Cemeteries. Jake is also a funeral home owner, providing him with firsthand experience in the financial and operational challenges facing funeral home owners. He earned a BSBA in Management with an emphasis in Accounting and Financial Analysis from Xavier University. His background in accounting, EBITDA forecasting, business development and operations provides practical expertise in using financial strategies to support funeral home growth and long-term success.
Approved for 1 CE hour by APFSP and by most state and province licensing boards.