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**New Video Alert! There was a time when information was difficult to find and incredibly valuable. Today, AI can generate training materials, lesson plans, procedures, and content in minutes. So what does that mean for businesses that claim their value comes from intellectual property? In this video, I explain why buyers need to separate information from execution and focus on what actually creates business value. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/lB4k3TsycmM Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett #BusinessAcquisition #BusinessValuation #IntellectualProperty #AI #Entrepreneurship #BuyABusiness #SmallBusiness #Investing #ETA **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* See why I chose Xero for my business here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
Cash flow Forecasting Program Discount code- Until end of May 2026 https://dbarnett.gumroad.com/l/smallbizforecasting/CashFlow2YTPromo **** Do interest rates, recessions, and economic headlines really matter when buying or selling a small business? New guest – Mike Finger from ExitOasis.com I'm happy to have Mike join me for an important discussion about the difference between economic headlines and the real-world realities of small business dealmaking. Tune in as we discuss interest rates, private equity, AI, demographic shifts, and whether these big macro trends actually impact the average small business owner looking to buy or sell a business. We'll also explore what really makes a business sellable and why good businesses continue to attract buyers regardless of what's happening in the broader economy. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone interested in buying, selling, financing, or managing a small business. Be sure to join live so that you can ask questions, replay will be available. Set yourself a reminder on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/8Nl_AEZnIt8 It will be going live Thursday May 28, 2026 at 2:30 PM Atlantic Time and 1:30 PM Eastern Time See you there! David C Barnett *** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* See why I chose Xero for my business here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
**New Video Alert! What do you do when business slows down and the phone stops ringing? In this video, I explain a simple strategy called “Shake the Tree” — a relationship-driven way to reconnect with people, generate referrals, and create opportunities without sounding pushy. It's simple, practical, and still works incredibly well. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/MQP53EWuCFY Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett #Sales #LeadGeneration #Networking #LinkedIn #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Marketing #SmallBusiness #Consulting **** TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction 01:20 The “Shake the Tree” Sales Strategy 03:15 Why I Joined a Coworking Space 05:20 Using Events to Create Conversations 08:10 The LinkedIn Outreach Strategy 11:00 Why Non-Pushy Sales Works Better 13:40 Real Results From One Campaign 16:15 Building Long-Term Business Momentum 20:00 Why Reputation Compounds Over Time 24:10 Final Advice for Business Owners **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* See why I chose Xero for my business here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
When Should You Exit a Business? Sell, Close or Walk Away How do you know when it's time to exit a business? In this special roundtable discussion, we talk about one of the toughest decisions business owners face — when to sell, shut down, or move on. Joining me are: *Rocky Lalvani – Profit Answer Man Podcast *Giuseppe Grammatico – Franchise Freedom Podcast *Henry Lopez – The How of Business Podcast Together, we discuss the warning signs business owners should watch for, how to think about succession and exit planning, and the emotional and financial realities of leaving a business behind. This is part three of our special three-part small business roundtable series. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone thinking about selling a business, planning an exit, or evaluating the future of their company. Be sure to join the premiere so that you can ask questions. Set yourself a reminder on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/VdS7QSEIwFs **** DCB Cash Flow Forecasting & Business Plan Writing Program- Save $100 May 2026 ONLY: https://dbarnett.gumroad.com/l/smallbizforecasting/CashFlow2YTPromo Links to our guests channels: *Rocky Lalvani-Profit Answer Man on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCKlxo8XQE9n6rFmlNpQHegg *Henry Lopez- The How of Business on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCTen53dRJ5m6tgPgSIN3XEg *Giuseppe Grammatico- Franchise Freedom Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCxWsxLRngbxJEH2m8w-ptYw **** Get 90% off your first 6 months of Xero Cloud Accounting: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero See why David chose Xero for his business here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Join David's Email list and get 7 FREE gifts: https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* See why I chose Xero for my business here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
In this eye-opening episode, David Barnett, Owner of www.DavidCBarnett.com, shares how to protect and strengthen your business as you grow in stage 3. If you're growing fast but feel exposed to hidden risks, or worry that one mistake could wipe out years of work, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why focusing only on revenue and profit leaves your business dangerously vulnerable.- How to use your balance sheet to spot and manage risk before it becomes a crisis.- What changes to make now so you can grow profitably while protecting what you've built.This episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 3 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizDavid C. Barnett is an author, consultant, and international speaker who has helped thousands of entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes and achieve successful business exits. Having personally started, bought, sold, and closed multiple businesses, David brings hands-on experience rather than theory. He specializes in the critical areas of buying, selling, financing, and managing small- to mid-sized businesses—the key leverage points that determine whether an entrepreneur can truly scale and succeed. His insights equip entrepreneurs to move forward with clarity and confidence, helping them prepare for a profitable exit even years in advance.Want to learn more about David Barnett's work at www.DavidCBarnett.com? Check out his website at https://www.investlocalbook.com/Connect with David through his LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbarnettmoncton/Check out David's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@DavidCBarnett Get a copy of his book The Business Fortress: How to Grow, Protect, and Exit Your Business with Confidence at https://www.amazon.com/Business-Fortress-Grow-Protect-Confidence/dp/B0F99NVR38Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you're a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you're doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
**New Video Alert! Over the years, I've answered thousands of questions about buying businesses. So I decided to compile the most common ones into a single resource. In this video, I walk through the top 40 questions people ask about buying a business — including financing, valuation, due diligence, seller financing, and avoiding bad deals. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/sAppFl2SN-Q Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett **** TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro 01:20 What Is the David C Barnett Bot? 04:00 Top Questions About Buying a Business 05:10 How Much Money Do You Need? 07:20 Can You Buy a Business With No Money Down? 09:30 What Businesses Should You Target? 12:00 How to Find Businesses for Sale 15:10 How to Get Sellers & Brokers to Take You Seriously 18:30 Business Valuation Basics 23:20 Due Diligence Mistakes 28:15 Financing & Seller Notes 33:10 Earn-Outs & Deal Structures 37:00 What Happens After Closing? 40:15 Final Thoughts **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
Franchise coach and business consultant Giuseppe Grammatico just returned from a family trip to Japan and he came back with far more than souvenirs. In this unscripted, reflective solo episode of the Franchise Freedom Podcast, Giuseppe shares the surprising business lessons he picked up from Tokyo to Osaka, including:
Better Cash Flow Management for Small Business Owners Why do so many small businesses struggle with cash flow — even when sales are strong? In this special roundtable discussion, I sit down with experienced business owners and advisors to discuss the realities of managing cash flow in a small business. We explore common mistakes business owners make, how to improve financial discipline, and practical ways to create stronger, healthier businesses. Joining me are: *Rocky Lalvani – Profit Answer Man Podcast *Giuseppe Grammatico – Franchise Freedom Podcast *Henry Lopez – The How of Business Podcast Together, we discuss the realities of starting a business, buying an existing operation, and investing in a franchise opportunity. This is part one of a special three-part series exploring the lifecycle of small business ownership. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone considering entrepreneurship or exploring different ways to become a business owner. Be sure to join live so that you can ask questions, replay will be available. Set yourself a reminder on YouTube here: See you there! David C Barnett **** DCB Cash Flow Forecasting & Business Plan Writing Program- Save $100 May 2026 ONLY: https://dbarnett.gumroad.com/l/smallbizforecasting/CashFlow2YTPromo Links to our guests channels: *Rocky Lalvani-Profit Answer Man on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCKlxo8XQE9n6rFmlNpQHegg *Henry Lopez- The How of Business on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCTen53dRJ5m6tgPgSIN3XEg *Giuseppe Grammatico- Franchise Freedom Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCxWsxLRngbxJEH2m8w-ptYw **** Get 90% off your first 6 months of Xero Cloud Accounting: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero See why David chose Xero for his business here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Join David's Email list and get 7 FREE gifts: https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* See why I chose Xero for my business here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
When Kate Morgan started thinking seriously about selling her business, she assumed the big payoff would come at closing. But as she tells David C. Barnett and Paul Downs this week, she's come to understand that the smarter move might be not selling—at least not yet. Why? Because if the business keeps performing and she can gradually remove herself from the day-to-day operations, she may ultimately make more money by continuing to own it. That's partly because, as David explains, small businesses often sell for lower multiples than owners expect. Which means the real value may not be in a clean exit, but in continuing to collect profits while slowly transitioning ownership to key employees. “So you'll be selling the business,” says David, “and you'll be collecting dividends or distributions on top of that. This is one of the most lucrative exits there can be.”Of course, delaying a sale comes with its own risks. Markets change. Businesses cool off. Buyers get nervous. “You have to make the decision and make the sale happen while you've got a full head of steam,” David warns. Wait too long, and the numbers can start sliding in ways that dramatically reduce what buyers are willing to pay.Plus: A Reddit post raises a brutal management challenge: What's the best way to lay off a relative? “It really can't affect your decision,” says Paul. “Because if it needs to be done, it needs to be done.” That doesn't make it easier. It just means you may have to live with both the business consequences and the family consequences at the same time.
Neuroscience News Article: https://neurosciencenews.com/ai-dunning-kruger-trap-29869/ *** **New Video Alert! AI tools are incredibly useful for business analysis… But they can also make people dangerously overconfident. In this video, I explain how I actually use AI when analyzing businesses, what these tools are genuinely good at, and the risks people need to understand before trusting them too much. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/0LAnVw0dylk Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett **** TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 AI for Business Analysis 01:45 What AI Actually Is 04:10 What AI Is Good At 07:15 Level 1: Asking Questions 09:00 Level 2: Structured Prompts 13:05 Level 3: Building Custom AI Tools 20:15 Real Examples of AI Business Analysis 25:10 The Dunning-Kruger Trap 30:20 What AI Gets Wrong 33:40 Why Human Judgment Still Matters 36:15 Final Thoughts **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
Start, Buy, or Franchise? Best Way to Get Into Business What's the best way to get into business — start from scratch, buy an existing business, or open a franchise? In this special episode, I sit down with three experienced small business experts to discuss the different paths entrepreneurs can take when entering the world of business ownership. Joining me are: Rocky Lalvani – Profit Answer Man Podcast, Giuseppe Grammatico – Franchise Freedom Podcast, Henry Lopez – The How of Business Podcast Together, we discuss the realities of starting a business, buying an existing operation, and investing in a franchise opportunity. This is part one of a special three-part series exploring the lifecycle of small business ownership. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone considering entrepreneurship or exploring different ways to become a business owner. Be sure to join live so that you can ask questions, replay will be available. See you there! David C Barnett **** DCB Cash Flow Forecasting & Business Plan Writing Program- Save $100 May 2026 ONLY: https://dbarnett.gumroad.com/l/smallbizforecasting/CashFlow2YTPromo Links to our guests channels: *Rocky Lalvani-Profit Answer Man on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCKlxo8XQE9n6rFmlNpQHegg *Henry Lopez- The How of Business on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCTen53dRJ5m6tgPgSIN3XEg *Giuseppe Grammatico- Franchise Freedom Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCxWsxLRngbxJEH2m8w-ptYw **** Get 90% off your first 6 months of Xero Cloud Accounting: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero See why David chose Xero for his business here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Join David's Email list and get 7 FREE gifts: https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* See why I chose Xero for my business here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
**New Video Alert! Most people think buying a business is straightforward… Find a deal, get financing, close, and you're done. But real deals don't work that way. In this video, I walk through 3 real acquisitions and what actually happened — including delays , surprises, and the lessons you can use in your own search. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/VilH5y_hlus Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett #BuyABusiness #BusinessAcquisition #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #DealMaking #ETA #BusinessTips #Investing *** TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Why Buying a Business Isn't Simple 01:30 Deal #1: Closing Chaos & Transition Reality 06:10 Deal #2: Bank Delays & Hidden Opportunity 10:45 Deal #3: “Buying a Job” That Works 15:20 Creative Deal Structures Explained 18:10 Key Lessons from All 3 Deals 20:30 Why You Shouldn't Do This Alone **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
What makes more sense for business expansion — entering a new market or growing market share? New Livestream guest – Gary Kunkle I'm happy to have Gary join me on a live broadcast. Gary is a business advisor and researcher who has spent years studying how companies grow, where they go wrong, and what actually drives profitable expansion. Tune in as we discuss the critical decision business owners face when scaling — whether to expand into new markets or focus on capturing more share in an existing one. We'll also explore the hidden dangers of growth, why not all customers are profitable, and how smarter growth strategies can lead to better outcomes. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone looking to grow a business or make smarter strategic decisions. Find Gary online at https://www.linkedin.com/in/garykunkle/ Learn more about my newly-updated Cash Flow Forecasting & Business Plan Writing Program at https://www.BizPlanSchool.com Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
Most business buyers make the same costly mistakes… They waste time on bad deals, get ignored by brokers, and sometimes overpay without realizing it. In this video, I break down 4 practical tools that can help you avoid those traps and move forward with confidence. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/wZ5rpWtHabo Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
What happens when a business broker focuses on just one industry? New Livestream guest – Bryan Baese I'm happy to have Bryan join me on a live broadcast. Bryan is a business broker who specializes exclusively in auto repair shops, and he's built a strong business by focusing on a single niche. Tune in as we discuss industry-specific business brokerage, how specialization can create real opportunity, and the biggest mistakes business owners make when preparing to sell. We'll also explore how the buyer landscape is changing and what it means for brokers and sellers today. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone interested in business brokerage, buying or selling a business, or building expertise in a specific industry. Find Bryan online here: https://www.rpmshopsales.com/ ** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
Are you an American thinking about buying a business in Canada? Or a Canadian wondering how the BDC compares to the SBA? In this video, I break down: Whether Americans can legally buy Canadian businesses *How BDC financing actually works (and why it's NOT the SBA) *The biggest cross-border tax trap most buyers completely miss *Why a great deal can quickly become a bad one after taxes If you're considering international business acquisition, this is a must-watch before making an offer. #businessbuying #entrepreneurship #smallbusiness #investing #canada #BDC #SBA #businesstips #acquisitions #finance *** Timestamps 0:00 1:30 What is BDC? 4:30 BDC vs SBA (Key Differences) 8:00 Financing a Canadian Deal 11:30 The Hidden Tax Trap (CCPC) 16:30 Why Deals Fall Apart 20:00 Final Advice **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
Startup Canada Halifax: https://site.pheedloop.com/event/SCTourHalifax/home/ Cincinnati Info: https://www.BusinessBuyerBoardroom.com See my video about why I chose Xero: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo?si=CC4bu3Z6W5fu-UaI Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
What happens when you leave corporate and suddenly have to do everything yourself? New Livestream guest- Lisa Even I'm happy to have Lisa join me on a live broadcast. Lisa works with business leaders and teams, helping them navigate leadership challenges, build strong cultures, and manage the realities of running small teams. Tune in as we discuss the transition from corporate to small business, what it really takes to manage a team where everyone wears multiple hats, and how to handle common challenges like family dynamics, promotions, and team culture. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone managing a small team or growing a business. Find Lisa online at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-even-have-good-ripple-effect-0778b112/ or https://www.LisaEven.com Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
**New Video Alert! What's the difference between an LOI, a term sheet, and an offer when buying a business? If you're trying to buy a small business, understanding how to structure your offer is critical. In this video, I break down the key differences between these documents, what should be included, and how to avoid costly mistakes that can kill deals before they even get started. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/UAefk3FMTU8 Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett #BusinessBuying #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #BusinessDeals #businessacquisition #smallbusiness #entrepreneurship #loi #letterofintent #termSheet #dealmaking #businessdeals #duediligence #sellerfinancing **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
Find Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathewrhine/ Find his team online: https://mattrhinegroup.com/ What does it really take to succeed as a top real estate agent today? New Interview guest- Matt Rhine I'm happy to have Matt Rhine join me for a one-on-one interview! Matt Rhine has experience,accomplishments,etc Tune in as we discuss how the real estate business actually works, how agents make money, and what's changing in the industry with technology, lead generation, and new business models. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone interested in real estate, sales, or building a scalable service business. Set yourself a reminder on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/YHHHsUiVWWY It will be going live Thursday April 09, 2026 3:00 PM Atlantic Time and 2 PM Eastern Time See you there! David C Barnett **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
Pricing a service business sounds straightforward—until you actually have to do it. How much should you charge? What's reasonable? And what happens when “reasonable” isn't enough to keep the business healthy? This week, Sarah Segal walks David C. Barnett and Liz Picarazzi through how she thinks about pricing her PR services—why she aims for consistency across clients and why she resists charging based on what the market will bear but insists on building in enough margin to stay profitable. It's a balancing act between values and reality, and not always a comfortable one.The conversation gets into practical questions every business eventually faces: Do you raise prices a little every year, or wait until you're forced to raise them more than just a little? Do you price based on your costs—or your customer's perceived value? And how do you handle those conversations without damaging relationships you genuinely care about?Plus: Liz expects a tariff refund—but isn't counting on it to help very much. She also explains why she's stopped flying employees around the country for installations.
**New Video Alert! Have you ever felt burned out running your business? On this video the owner built a $3M/year company… and still wants out. Would you sell and walk away with $800K? Or try to fix the business and keep going? Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/vHkMDaBWPxw Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett #businessbuying #Entrepreneurship #smallbusinessowner #businessdeals #BusinessOwnerBurnout #sellyourbusiness #EntrepreneurBurnout #PassiveIncome #startupreality *** TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro 03:00 The real problem: burnout vs logic 08:00 Bad advice from Reddit (and why it fails) 15:00 Hiring a manager? Huge risk explained 25:00 Keep vs sell: the $800K decision 40:00 What most people get wrong about valuation 55:00 My advice: sell before it's too late **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
In this episode, Bradley sits down with David Barnett, consultant, author, and longtime advisor on buying and selling small businesses. David shares his path from early interest in business to working in Yellow Pages sales, business brokerage, banking, and eventually building a consulting practice focused on helping people buy and sell Main Street and lower middle market companies.They discuss how buyers think about business value, why multiples are only the first pass in evaluating a deal, and what separates a business that is merely profitable from one that is actually sellable. David also explains the difference between SDE and EBITDA, why systems matter so much in a sale, and how terms can be more important than headline price.This conversation moves beyond valuation and into ownership itself. What makes a business attractive to a buyer? How do systems and delegation increase both freedom and enterprise value? And why do so many owners build businesses that only a younger version of themselves could buy?If you care about building a company that is easier to run, easier to grow, and eventually easier to sell, this conversation is for you.Visit https://workshop.blueprintos.com to register for the upcoming Above The Business workshop.Learn more about David Barnett: https://www.investlocalbook.com/ Listen to David Barnett's Small Business podcast: https://www.investlocalbook.com/p/in-media.html Find David Barnett's books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=David+C.+Barnett&i=audible&ref=dp_byline_sr_audible_1 Thanks to our sponsorsCoach P ConsultingCoach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:https://www.coachpconsulting.comBe sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.Autopilot RecruitingAutopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day, optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities.https://www.autopilotrecruiting.comMention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.Direct ClicksDirect Clicks is built by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that drive real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide comprehensive digital marketing support to help your business grow.Exclusive offer for listeners:https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusinessGet a free marketing campaign audit and actionable recommendations.About Above The BusinessAbove The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale.
New Livestream guest- Chris Papin (CPA & Attorney) I'm happy to have Chris join me on a live broadcast. Chris brings a unique perspective as both a CPA and a lawyer, helping small business owners navigate acquisitions, due diligence, and critical growth decisions. Tune in as we discuss what buyers often miss, how deals really work, and why having the right advisors can make or break your next business move. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone thinking about buying a business, growing one, or preparing for a major transition. Find Chris online at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispapin/ *** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
**New Video Alert! A lot of people who lose a job start wondering if buying a business could be the answer. But that can be a dangerous way to think. In this episode, I explain when buying a business after job loss might make sense, when it does not, and why desperation, shrinking savings, and the wrong kind of deal can create a much bigger problem. If you are thinking about buying a business because you need income, this is an important conversation. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/qFLnXCsXxPQ Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
Tech to help searchers New Livestream guest- Liz MacRae I'm happy to have Liz join me on a live broadcast . Liz used to be a business broker and now she's a tech startup entrepreneur trying to use SaaS systems to make search easier to manage. Tune in and we'll be discussing her company's Deal Studio platform. This is a ‘must see event' for searchers who want help to stay organized. se this code to save 20%- BARNETT20YT or, try Barnett20YT There may be some confusion Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
It's already been quite a decade for owners: a pandemic, inflation, tariffs, and now, suddenly, war with Iran—bringing with it the biggest spike in oil prices ever. And looming over everything is the still-uncertain impact of artificial intelligence. This week, David C. Barnett, Jay Goltz, and Ted Wolf talk about how all that uncertainty is shaping the decisions owners are making right now—from whether it's wise to invest in new equipment to how some lenders are demanding that would-be borrowers articulate their AI strategy before obtaining a loan.The implications of all of this vary by industry, but Dave says some sectors suddenly look a lot riskier than they did a year ago. “I don't know if I'd want to get a 90-percent loan to buy a marketing agency today,” he says. At the same time, the economics of AI could push owners to move faster than they might otherwise. As Dave notes, if a $10,000 or $20,000 investment in AI can quickly replace two positions, that's the kind of return many owners will find hard to ignore when expenses are rising.Along the way, the three discuss why periods like this can also create unexpected opportunities. Keep your eyes open, Dave advises. “A lot of those opportunities may come from a competitor stumbling.”Plus: what happens when business owners suddenly realize they should have been collecting sales tax all along. Do you pay the back taxes yourself? Start collecting now and hope for the best? Or is there a smarter way to fix the problem?
Buyers: Learn more about the Cincinnati event at https://www.BusinessBuyerBoardroom.com Sellers. Write to Melody at info@alpatlantic.com and ask for information on the Year End Limited Sellers Promotion **** Today I'm sharing two special opportunities for people in my audience. If you are thinking about buying a business, I'm hosting a Business Buyer Boardroom Mastermind session in Cincinnati on May 16th. And if you already own a business and are thinking about selling, I've created a special seller bundle program designed to help you sell your business yourself without paying broker commissions. Both opportunities are limited, so watch the video to learn the details. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/grz9nhJR9p0 Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
What happens with press releases now that we have AI? New Livestream guest- Mickie Kennedy I'm happy to have Mickie come back and join me on a live broadcast. Mickie has helped countless small businesses get media attention via press releases. Tune in and as we'll be discussing how all of this is changing in the world of LLMs! This is a ‘must see event' for anyone in business who may want to one day get some press coverage. Be sure to join live so that you can ask questions, replay will be available. See Mickie's first interview from December 2023 here: https://youtube.com/live/_EjKROe9Tyc ---- Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
Despite the waves of uncertainty crashing across the economy, this week we hear from three owners who feel cautiously good about how their year has started. David C. Barnett budgeted for slightly less revenue in 2026, but he's operating more efficiently and expects to turn a bigger profit. Jaci Russo is hitting her revenue projections—and after implementing a profit-first accounting system, she says the results have been “eye-opening.” And while Lena McGuire isn't quite on track to meet her aggressive goal of doubling her business this year, she's doing far better than she did a year ago.Along the way, we talk about getting runaway software subscriptions under control, figuring out how businesses get discovered in an AI world, and why Jaci's health plan charges almost three times as much to cover female employees as it does comparable male employees. And we consider a question that might have sounded ridiculous not long ago: Has it become harder to get a job than it is to start a business?
**New Video Alert! If you're a corporate executive thinking about buying a small business as a backup plan (or a next chapter), this episode is for you. The uncomfortable truth? The exact skills that helped you climb the corporate ladder can become traps in a small business. If you're serious about putting your own money into a deal, this is something you need to understand before you sign anything. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/SGQnC3fyQ3s Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett **** - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
**New Video Alert! Career boredom is real. But using business ownership to cure it can either move your life forward or create stress you never expected. In this video, I explain the three types of boredom and why only one of them is actually solved by owning a business. I also walk through a simple way to test whether entrepreneurship fits your temperament, risk tolerance, and season of life. Before you make a high cost decision to fix a low cost problem, this is worth your time. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/XP853VHQGJA Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett #microacquisitions #stackingmicroacquisitions #buyingsmallbusinesses #businessrollupstrategy #acquisition #entrepreneurship #sellerfinancing **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
There's a common belief that selling a business is the ultimate jackpot—a one-time windfall that guarantees wealth and success. But is that the reality? In this episode I sit down with David C. Barnett, three-time best-selling author, entrepreneur, and former business broker, to unpack the realities behind buying and selling small and mid-sized businesses. David's journey began in advertising sales before he launched multiple ventures, including a commercial debt brokerage. That path eventually led him into business brokerage and private transaction consulting, where he has spent more than a decade advising entrepreneurs around the world. Drawing from his experience as the author of How to Sell My Own Business and seven other books, David challenges the common myths around exits. This conversation is practical, direct, and grounded in real-world deal experience. Whether you are planning an exit, considering an acquisition, or advising business owners, David offers insights that may reshape how you think about preserving and transferring business value.
A lot of business owners are taking a wait-and-see approach with artificial intelligence. They've heard the hype—but they've also heard about the slop, the hallucinations, and the research suggesting many AI projects fail to deliver. For plenty of owners, that's reason enough to assume this might be another passing obsession—like Y2K, Clubhouse, or the metaverse—and to sit back until the dust settles.But not these three owners: David C. Barnett, Jaci Russo, and William Vanderbloemen have decided that waiting is the bigger risk. They're taking courses, they're teaching courses, they're building agents, and they're rethinking processes and workflows—all in search of an edge that may not be available forever. And they're already seeing results.In this episode, they share what's actually working so far, including some early experiments that could reduce their reliance on Google AdWords. They also talk candidly about what they won't do with AI, how they sidestep the slop, and why each of them believes this is one of those rare moments when experimentation isn't optional.
**New Video Alert! In this episode, I walk through a very real scenario that buyers, sellers, and brokers are facing more often as parts of the economy slow down. Imagine a business that once justified a higher valuation. Over time, revenues fall, earnings shrink, and the value declines — but the debt remains. On closing day, most of the purchase price must go toward paying off secured creditors. There may not be enough left to cover broker commissions, legal fees, or other transaction costs. So what do you do? In this video, I explain. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/4IAWsWGV4qM Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett #microacquisitions #stackingmicroacquisitions #buyingsmallbusinesses #businessrollupstrategy #acquisition #entrepreneurship #sellerfinancing **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com
There's a common belief that selling a business is the ultimate jackpot—a one-time windfall that guarantees wealth and success. But is that the reality? In this episode I sit down with David C. Barnett, three-time best-selling author, entrepreneur, and former business broker, to unpack the realities behind buying and selling small and mid-sized businesses. David's journey began in advertising sales before he launched multiple ventures, including a commercial debt brokerage. That path eventually led him into business brokerage and private transaction consulting, where he has spent more than a decade advising entrepreneurs around the world. Drawing from his experience as the author of How to Sell My Own Business and seven other books, David challenges the common myths around exits. We discuss: Why selling a business is often a strategic outcome, not a guaranteed jackpot What actually makes a business sellable How leverage, risk, and market timing influence outcomes Why many owners misunderstand market dynamics The evolving role of technology in business transactions How to build a company that is transferable, even if you never intend to sell This conversation is practical, direct, and grounded in real-world deal experience. Whether you are planning an exit, considering an acquisition, or advising business owners, David offers insights that may reshape how you think about preserving and transferring business value. In this episode, you will: Learn how AI tools can speed up deal sourcing and buyer profiling Understand how to assess and manage risk when financing a business purchase Hear the limitations of exit planning and the importance of execution Highlights: (00:00) Meet David C. Barnett (02:18) Exit planning reality check (09:57) AI and valuation (18:32) Overpriced listings & unrealistic expectations (20:48) Shifting buyer demographics (26:38) SBA leverage: low defaults, big hidden risks (35:56) Seller financing, internal successors, and trust-based deals Resources: For past guests, please visit https://www.defendersofbusinessvalue.com/ Follow David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbarnettmoncton/ Explore his website: www.DavidCBarnett.com Subscribe to his YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DavidCBarnett Learn more about Advantage Liquidity Partners Ltd.: https://www.businessandassetvalues.com/ Follow Ed: Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edmysogland/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/defendersofbusinessvalue/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bvdefenders
**New Video Alert! In this video, I break down what “stacking micro acquisitions” actually means, why it's such an appealing concept online, and the hidden risks most people don't talk about. If you're thinking about building wealth by buying small, boring businesses and combining them into something bigger, this is a must-watch before you make an offer. The truth? Micro acquisitions can work — but only under the right conditions. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/XhbAiLkScmk Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett #microacquisitions #stackingmicroacquisitions #buyingsmallbusinesses #businessrollupstrategy #acquisition #entrepreneurship #sellerfinancing **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com
**New Video Alert! Most buyers rely on the seller's discretionary earnings or EBITDA to decide what a business is worth. That's a mistake. In this episode, I use a real-life story from my own home to explain why depreciation, equipment replacement, and capital expenditures can quietly drain your cash flow after you buy a business. If you're buying a business or preparing to sell one, this is something you need to understand before money changes hands. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/NvFvNoN-PiE Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero. Terms & Conditions apply.* Find more content that answers your questions with my new AI BOT: https://www.davidcbarnettbot.com/ Enjoy HUGE savings when signing up for Xero cloud-based accounting software using David's sponsorship link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidCBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com
View my video about these apps and what I've seen them do: https://youtu.be/thouWK5QQpI Delivery apps are changing the restaurant business New Livestream guest- Justin Andrews I'm happy to have Justin Andrews join me on a live broadcast. Justin Andrews has experience as a food-industry operator and entrepreneur who's spent years in the restaurant world. Currently, he's working on building the ‘Uber' of commercial commissary kitchens! Tune in and as we'll be discussing what's really happening behind the scenes in the restaurant industry right now. We'll also get into ghost kitchens and why they may be one of the smartest ways to test a restaurant concept before signing a lease, building a dining room, and taking on major risk. This is a ‘must see event' for restaurant owners, aspiring food entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about ghost kitchens, delivery apps, and where the food business is headed next. Be sure to join live so that you can ask questions, replay will be available. We'll be going live Monday February 09, 2026 at 1PM Atlantic Time and 12 Noon Eastern Time See you there! David C Barnett Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com
Understanding common errors in business acquisitions and integrations New Livestream guest- Mark Sims I'm happy to have Mark join me on a live broadcast. He's spent years helping private equity firms do due diligence and integration work on new acquisitions. Tune in and as we'll be discussing what small business buyers can learn from his stories and experiences. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone who wants to buy a business. Be sure to join live so that you can ask questions, replay will be available. We'll be going live Monday Febraury 02, 2026 at 1PM Atlantic Time and 12 Noon Eastern Time See you there! David C Barnett Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com
If your business disappeared from under you tomorrow, would your balance sheet, cash strategy, and exit plan keep you standing?In this episode of Sharkpreneur, Seth Greene interviews Mark Willis, CFP®, and David Barnett, best-selling author and veteran buy/sell advisor. Together, they unpack their new book The Business Fortress: How to Grow, Protect, and Exit Your Business with Confidence. David shares what thousands of real-world transactions reveal about banker risk, valuation blind spots, and why owners too often discover their exit gap too late. Mark outlines liquidity-first strategies, “be your own line of credit” concepts, and how fortress-style cash design creates moats for growth, resilience in shocks, and negotiation power at exit.Key Takeaways:→ How scaling low-margin activities dilutes valuation. → Why you should build strength before deploying capital. → How golden-handcuff tools help keep key clients through growth and transition.→ Why internal, policy-style lending frameworks can shorten cycles and capture distressed opportunities. → Where you store your cash changes how you act and how stable stores enable decisive moves, acquisitions, and better terms across the table. Mark Willis, CFP® is a man on a mission to help you think differently about your money, your economy and your future. Mark is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, a three-time #1 Best Selling Author and the owner of Lake Growth Financial Services, a financial firm in Chicago, Illinois. As co-host of the Not Your Average Financial Podcast™, he shares some of his strategies for investing in real estate, paying for college without going broke, and creating an income in retirement you will not outlive. Mark works with people who want to grow their wealth in ways that are safe and predictable, to become their own source of financing, and create tax-free income in retirement. International speaker, author, and consultant David C. Barnett has spent over two decades guiding small and medium-sized business owners through buying, selling, financing, and managing their companies. He is the author of ten books, including the best-selling How to Sell My Own Business, and creator of the Business Buyer Advantage program. Barnett's YouTube channel and podcast reach a global audience, with over 2.9 million views and 667,000 podcast downloads. Recognized for making complex deal-making concepts accessible, David works with entrepreneurs worldwide to structure successful transactions and avoid common pitfalls. His engaging talks and workshops equip audiences with actionable insights for building and exiting businesses strategically.Connect With Mark:Website: https://lakegrowth.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notyouraveragefinancialX: https://x.com/lakegrowthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marklakegrowth/Connect With David:Website: https://www.davidcbarnett.com/ Website: https://www.davidcbarnettlist.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dbarnettmoncton/X: https://twitter.com/DBarnettMonctonLinkedIn: http://ca.linkedin.com/in/davidbarnettmoncton
Six years ago, Kate Morgan walked away from the sale of her business just days before closing. Since then, she's endured some rough stretches, fighting through the pandemic and a slump in the software sector where many of her clients live. She's managed to stay profitable, and she sees lots of opportunity ahead, but the grind has worn her down. After years of pushing, adapting, and holding on, she says she's had enough. She believes a strategic sale makes the most sense, and she's working her network to find the right buyer. This week, she talks through her plan with David C. Barnett and Ted Wolf, two owners who—unlike most—have actually sold businesses and lived with the consequences. They push Kate to think carefully about her options and the pitfalls that trip up so many owners.Plus: One reason Kate is ready to sell is that she's recently published a book, and she'd like to devote more time and energy to accepting speaking opportunities. As it happens, Ted has written two books that he's trying to figure out how to get published. Kate and David compare notes on the very different paths they've taken—David self-publishing through Amazon, Kate paying a big fee to work with Forbes Books. Both are quite happy with the choices they made.
Max out those FREE vacations with your business purchases- Guest Ross Alcorn New Livestream guest- Ross Alcorn I'm happy to have Ross join me on a live broadcast. He's been helping small business owners game the credit card system for years. He's literally built a business out of coaching owners and training their A/P staff on this. Tune in and as we'll be discussing how to max out credit card points and other benefits with your business spending. This is a ‘must see event' for anyone who owns or will own a small business. Find Ross online here: https://itineraryboss.com/ Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link: https://referrals.xero.com/DavidCBarnett_xero . Terms & Conditions apply.* See the video of my Xero story here: https://youtu.be/LfaGUfwStqo Sign up for David's email list at https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com Youtube music licensing code: 5PJWQOE5ZZHTQSRY
***New Video Alert! It's the holidays, things are quiet, and I thought I'd dig into what real people are posting on Reddit about small business deals. From landscaping to IT consulting, I'm reviewing what's worth buying, what's not, and how to tell if you're just “buying a job.” If you want to learn how to analyze real-world small business deals, this video is for you. Check them out right here: https://youtu.be/fPpKoW3lXxA Cheers See you over on YouTube David C Barnett #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessBuying #BusinessBroker #BusinessBuyerAdvantage #DavidCBarnett **** YouTube Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:30 Why look at small business deals online 02:25 Landscaping business for sale: good buy or just buying a job? 08:40 Breaking down the numbers: profit, SDE & equipment costs 14:55 Second post: employee offered to buy boss's remodeling business 20:10 When it's not really a business—just a job 24:30 How to structure a fair transition with your boss 28:50 Third post: IT consultant trying to sell a one-person firm 34:05 The problem with “businesses” that are really solo practices 38:20 Final thoughts – When small businesses are worth it (and when they're not) **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com -Did you sign up for an expensive Merchant Cash Advance for your business and now struggle to make the payments? Find out how you can negotiate your way out at https://www.EndMyMCA.com
New Video Alert! As 2026 begins, I'm sharing my thoughts on what's ahead for small business buyers, sellers, and dealmakers. Interest rates, financing, valuations, and buyer behavior are all shifting, and the next year could look very different from what we've seen recently. In this episode, I talk about where lending might go, why seller financing could become more common, and how deal structures and valuations may adjust to a tougher economy. I'll also explain why stronger balance sheets and smarter due diligence will matter more than ever. If you plan to buy, sell, or grow a business in 2026, this video will help you understand what's coming and how to prepare for it. Learn more at https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/bK16gfxVw8g Cheers David C Barnett #SmallBusiness #BusinessBuying #Entrepreneurship #BusinessValuation #SellerFinancing #BusinessForecast #MergersAndAcquisitions #BusinessBuyerAdvantage #ExitPlanning #DavidCBarnett **** YouTube Chapters 00:00 – Intro 00:40 – Setting the Stage: Economic Outlook 02:30 – Prediction #1: SBA and Bank Financing Tighten 06:30 – Prediction #2: Seller Financing on the Rise 10:00 – Prediction #3: Multiples and Valuations Deflate 14:00 – Prediction #4: Who the 2026 Buyers Will Be 18:00 – Prediction #5: The “Easy Business” Myth Breaks 21:30 – Prediction #6: Distressed Sales & Cheap Start-Ups 26:00 – Prediction #7: More Deals Fail in Due Diligence 31:00 – Prediction #8: The Balance Sheet Matters Again 34:00 – Final Thoughts & How to Prepare for 2026 **** - Join David's email list so you never miss any new videos or important information or insights, RECEIVE 7 FREE GIFTS!!- https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com **** Do Business with David using these incredible internet links... - David's Blog where you can find hundreds of free videos and articles, https://www.DavidCBarnett.com - Book a call with David and let him help you with your project, https://www.CallDavidBarnett.com - Learn how to buy a successful and profitable business in a risk-controlled way https://www.BusinessBuyerAdvantage.com - Get help selling your business, https://www.HowToSellMyOwnBusiness.com - Get better organized in your business, https://www.EasySmallBizSystems.com - Learn to make better cash flow forecasts and write incredibly effective business plans from scratch!, https://www.BizPlanSchool.com - Learn to build an equity asset with insurance! visit https://www.NewBankingSolution.com -Did you sign up for an expensive Merchant Cash Advance for your business and now struggle to make the payments? Find out how you can negotiate your way out at https://www.EndMyMCA.com
How to Build a Business Fortress: Liquidity, Cash Flow, and Exit Readiness with David Barnett Build a Business Fortress: Why Liquidity Beats Leverage and Most Businesses Never Sell Most owners assume the big payoff will come when they finally sell the business. The hard truth is that roughly 80 percent of small businesses listed for sale never actually sell as going concerns. The real payoff is in the years of ownership: the cash flow you extract, the wealth you build outside the business, and the resilience you create so you can survive the next punch in the face. In this episode of Profit Answer Man, David Barnett, author of The Business Fortress, joins me to talk about how to make your company stronger, safer, and more valuable long before you ever talk to a buyer. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Cash Flow Problems Are Symptoms, Not Causes. Owners often shout "I have a cash flow problem" and immediately reach for more sales or more debt. David reminds us that cash flow pain is usually a symptom of a broken model: mispriced services, hidden payroll costs, or not truly knowing what it costs to deliver your product. A missing 4–5 percent in labor burden or benefits can wipe out half your planned profit before you even notice. Liquidity Is More Powerful Than Leverage. Everyone celebrates "other people's money." David flips the script: leverage depends on someone else's lending decision; liquidity is under your control. Lines of credit can be cut, termed out, or called just when you need them most. A healthy cash reserve inside your business lets you ride out downturns and seize opportunities when competitors stumble. Growth Can Quietly Crush Your Cash. On paper, growth looks amazing. In reality, fast growth often demands a massive "investment in accounts receivable." You hire staff, buy equipment, and deliver work long before you get paid. Without a plan for the cash gap, owners end up borrowing heavily just to float receivables, which weakens the balance sheet and increases risk. The Real Risk: Will Cash Flow Continue After You Leave? Buyers ask two questions: "What is the cash flow?" and "Will this cash flow continue after I become the owner?" The second question determines whether they do the deal at all and what terms they demand. If all the goodwill lives in you as the owner, or in a few concentrated customers, the risk to the buyer skyrockets and the value of the business drops. Most Businesses Never Actually Sell. David shares a sobering statistic: about 80 percent of businesses listed on the big marketplaces never sell as operating companies. Some equipment may get sold off, but the business itself doesn't transfer. That's why he urges owners to build wealth both inside and outside the business, treat the company as a cash-flowing asset, and have a plan B that does not depend on a big exit check. Key Takeaway: Treat your business like a fortress you're slowly building over time: strengthen cash flow, build liquidity, reduce dependence on debt, and design the company so cash flow continues even after you step away. Bio: Barnett loves to say that it took him 10 years to un-learn what he was taught in business school. University had trained him to be a middle-manager in big enterprises, he was totally unprepared for the realities of small business. After a career in advertising sales, Barnett started several businesses including a commercial debt brokerage house. Helping to finance small and medium sized businesses led to the field of business brokerage. Over several years, Barnett sold dozens of businesses for others while also managing his own portfolio of income properties and starting his career as a local private investor. Barnett regularly consults with professionals and banks on business and asset values. Presently he also works with entrepreneurs and would-be entrepreneurs around the world who are buying, selling or trying to improve their businesses. Links: Blog: www.DavidCBarnett.com LinkedIn: http://ca.linkedin.com/in/davidbarnettmoncton Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DBarnettMoncton/ YouTube: https://www.SmallBusinessAndDealMakingPodcast.com Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/dbarnettmoncton Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dbarnettmoncton/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DBarnettMoncton Email List Signup: https://www.DavidCBarnettList.com Conclusion: Building a Business Fortress isn't about chasing bigger numbers or hoping for a heroic exit someday. It's about creating a company that produces steady cash flow, protects you when the economy tightens, and gives you real options for the future. As David Barnett reminds us, the real payoff is in the years you own the business—not in a sale that may or may not happen. When you prioritize liquidity, understand your true costs, reduce dependence on debt, and build wealth outside the business, you create a fortress that can withstand storms and deliver lasting freedom. The question isn't whether your business will sell someday—it's whether it's strong enough to support the life you want today. #ProfitAnswerMan #BusinessFortress #CashFlow #SmallBusinessFinance #Liquidity #ExitPlanning #BusinessSale #Entrepreneurship #BusinessOwner #FinancialFreedom Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@profitanswerman Sign up to be notified when the next cohort of the Profit First Experience Course is available! Free Copy of the Profit Blueprint Book: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/landing-page-page Monthly Newsletter signup: https://lp.profitcomesfirst.com/newsletter-signup Relay Bank (affiliate link): https://relayfi.com/?referralcode=profitcomesfirst Profit Answer Man Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/profitanswerman/ My podcast about living a richer more meaningful life: http://richersoul.com/ Music provided by Junan from Junan Podcast Any financial advice is for educational purposes only and you should consult with an expert for your specific needs.
David C. Barnett breaks down buying small businesses vs real estate, the risks investors overlook, and how to build resilient, cash-flowing companies.In this episode of RealDealChat, Jack Hoss sits down with David C. Barnett, author of The Business Fortress and one of the most respected voices in small business acquisition, to unpack the real differences between buying businesses and investing in real estate.David shares his journey from business brokerage to banking to building a global advisory firm helping buyers and sellers avoid catastrophic mistakes. He explains why business brokerage is fundamentally broken, how leverage cuts both ways in small businesses, and why “absentee ownership” is one of the most dangerous myths investors believe.You'll learn why operational leverage can destroy profits overnight, how liquidity (not growth) determines survival, why balance sheets matter more than P&Ls, and how long-term content creation (YouTube, books, email) quietly outperforms flashy marketing tactics.This episode is a must-watch for real estate investors considering business acquisitions—and for entrepreneurs who want to build a business fortress that survives downturns and exits cleanly.