James Mitarotonda, who has run activist fund Barington Capital since 2000, took some time to speak to The Deal’s Activist Investing Today podcast.

In a wide-ranging conversation, Mitarotonda, says he takes a private-equity approach to public market investments in companies that frequently have high barriers to entry.

However, Mitarotonda acknowledges that he will launch a director-election fight if necessary. For example, Barington is seeking to install two directors onto the board of Xerium Technologies Inc. (XRM) as part of an effort to drive the paper machine manufacturer to explore a “strategic transaction” that he believes would facilitate the refinancing of its debt to more favorable terms.

Beyond, Xerium, Mitarotonda spoke to The Deal about his ongoing campaigns at other well-known companies, such as Outback Steakhouse-owner Bloomin Brands Inc. (BLMN) and beauty products company Avon Products Inc. (AVP), where he has a directorship.

Here’s the podcast:

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