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What do buyers look for in a business, and how can you increase the value of your business by focusing on these areas? Join us as we discuss strategies for increasing the value of your businesses to attract buyers with Justin Goodbread, a business coach and financial advisor. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? M&A Guide | The 4 Types of Buyers of Businesses Optimizing Your Business for a Successful Exit How Involved Will I Be in Selling My Business? Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Sign up for an Assessment and Valuation of Your Business. Courses: The Art & Science of Selling a Business Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
Want a quick estimate of how much your business is worth? With our free valuation calculator, answer a few questions about your business, and you'll get an immediate estimate of the value of your business. You might be surprised by how much you can get for it: https://flippa.com/exit -- In this episode of The Exit: Host Steve McGarry sits down with Jonathan Bennett, advisor at Clearly Then and former founder of a successful B Corp consulting firm, to unpack the emotional journey of exiting a business—something rarely discussed, but profoundly impactful. Jonathan shares his own story of selling his company through a gradual management buyout, and how the decision started with a casual walk in Dublin and a question from his wife. The episode dives into the often-overlooked inner challenges that founders face—identity loss, grief, and the fear of letting go. “The easy part is the legal and financial stuff,” Jonathan says. “The hard part is emotional.” You''ll learn: Why selling at your peak (not in burnout) is critical How to choose the right successor without hanging on too long Why empty promises during a handover can backfire What life after an exit looks like—and how to fill the void with purpose Smart negotiation tips, including how to uncover the real motivations of a buyer Whether you're planning to exit soon or just building for the long game, Jonathan's mix of practical wisdom and emotional intelligence will give you a fresh perspective on what it really means to walk away from something you built. "Don't wait until you're depleted to sell—get off the stage while the crowd is still clapping." – Jonathan Bennett -- Jonathan Bennett is an advisor and executive coach for purpose-driven leaders who need help solving their organization's toughest obstacles. With experience in urban, rural, remote, and First Nations communities, Jonathan's expertise is in social purpose business strategy, governance, branding, change, and communications. His coaching draws on 25 years of creativity and leadership success as a CEO, board member, and founder, and he is known for his deep-listening and his breakthrough solutions that create insights and new strategies. Jonathan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennettjonathan/ Link to Private Podcast: https://clearlythen.com/listen Website: https://clearlythen.com/ -- The Exit—Presented By Flippa: A 30-minute podcast featuring expert entrepreneurs who have been there and done it. The Exit talks to operators who have bought and sold a business. You'll learn how they did it, why they did it, and get exposure to the world of exits, a world occupied by a small few, but accessible to many. To listen to the podcast or get daily listing updates, click on flippa.com/the-exit-podcast/
Once you've sold your business, you need to think about how to best secure your future. John Paul Szita, an entrepreneur and real estate investor, suggests allocating at least one-third of your proceeds to real estate investing alongside experienced partners. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? How to be Happy After Selling Your Company How to Be Financially Free after You Sell Your Business Critical Financial and Estate Planning Strategies When Selling Your Business Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
Behind the Buy: Business Acquisition Insights | The MKB Podcast Episode 61 Link to video podcast episode: https://youtu.be/YFDm_fKlNhQ
Wondering how to build an M&A team that will help you maximize your business's value? In this episode, Dustin Williamson, CFO, discusses the importance of seeking good advice from experienced professionals. He highlights the critical stages of the M&A process, including the need for financial advice, investment banking, and legal counsel who specialize in M&A. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? The Role of Accountants When Selling Your Business The Role of M&A Lawyers When Selling Your Business Do I Need to Hire a Local Business Broker? Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
What if scaling your SaaS didn't require burning out or selling your soul to venture capital? In this episode, Greg sits down with seasoned SaaS founder, author, and startup mentor Rob Walling for a candid conversation about what it really takes to build a sustainable, sellable SaaS business. Rob kicks things off by sharing how he stumbled into SaaS before it was cool, and how that journey led him to co-create TinySeed, an alternative funding model that puts founders first. He breaks down how TinySeed's 12-month program works, who it's for, and how it compares to traditional VC. But this episode isn't just about funding, it's about founder freedom. We dive deep into the psychological shifts that come with selling your business, how to recognize the right time to exit, and how to protect your energy both before and after a sale. Rob also shares the biggest traps SaaS founders fall into when chasing “growth at all costs” and the core traits he sees in founders who succeed. Whether you're bootstrapping, raising capital, or planning an exit, this episode is packed with honest, actionable insights that will help you scale smarter, and sell without regret. Topics Discussed in this episode: Rob's background and how he got into SaaS (02:08) The origins of TinySeed and how it differs from Venture Capital (12:09) The opportunities that are created through selling your business (19:43) A breakdown of Tiny Seed's 12-month program (22:19) The pros and cons of a “growth at all costs” mindset (28:32) The requirements needed to join Tiny Seed (30:20) The psychological effects of exiting your business (33:56) How to tell when to sell your business (39:40) How to avoid burnout before and after your exit (46:43) The characteristics that successful founders share (52:21) Mentions: Empire Flippers Podcasts Empire Flippers Marketplace Create an Empire Flippers account Subscribe to our weekly newsletter Startups For The Rest Of Us podcast Exit Strategy: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Selling Your Business without Regret TinySeed Sit back, grab a coffee, and learn how to take the next step in your SaaS journey with confidence.
Jim Cumbee is a lawyer who later received an MBA from Harvard Business School. He has served as Assistant Attorney General of Missouri, worked on the staff of the Governor of Missouri, spent years as a commercial real estate developer, and held executive positions at the Walt Disney Company. He also purchased a Gospel Music Radio network, grew it, and sold it. Today, as a very successful business broker, he has earned the titles of expert negotiator and mediator and has authored a best-selling book: “Home Run: A Pro's Guide to Selling Your Business.” There are business lessons in his story and, more importantly, life lessons. Jim Cumbee is a gift, but he also has a gift. If you are wondering what it takes to be successful, be sure to tune in.
What if scaling your SaaS didn't require burning out or selling your soul to venture capital? In this episode, Greg sits down with seasoned SaaS founder, author, and startup mentor Rob Walling for a candid conversation about what it really takes to build a sustainable, sellable SaaS business. Rob kicks things off by sharing how he stumbled into SaaS before it was cool, and how that journey led him to co-create TinySeed, an alternative funding model that puts founders first. He breaks down how TinySeed's 12-month program works, who it's for, and how it compares to traditional VC. But this episode isn't just about funding, it's about founder freedom. We dive deep into the psychological shifts that come with selling your business, how to recognize the right time to exit, and how to protect your energy both before and after a sale. Rob also shares the biggest traps SaaS founders fall into when chasing “growth at all costs” and the core traits he sees in founders who succeed. Whether you're bootstrapping, raising capital, or planning an exit, this episode is packed with honest, actionable insights that will help you scale smarter, and sell without regret. Topics Discussed in this episode: Rob's background and how he got into SaaS (02:08) The origins of TinySeed and how it differs from Venture Capital (12:09) The opportunities that are created through selling your business (19:43) A breakdown of Tiny Seed's 12-month program (22:19) The pros and cons of a “growth at all costs” mindset (28:32) The requirements needed to join Tiny Seed (30:20) The psychological effects of exiting your business (33:56) How to tell when to sell your business (39:40) How to avoid burnout before and after your exit (46:43) The characteristics that successful founders share (52:21) Mentions: Empire Flippers Podcasts Empire Flippers Marketplace Create an Empire Flippers account Subscribe to our weekly newsletter Startups For The Rest Of Us podcast Exit Strategy: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Selling Your Business without Regret TinySeed Sit back, grab a coffee, and learn how to take the next step in your SaaS journey with confidence.
As Benjamin Franklin famously said, “In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.” But for online business owners, taxes aren't always so certain, especially when it comes to sales tax. In this episode, we're joined by Jessica Rhoads. Jessica is an internationally experienced CPA and self-confessed “dumpster fire accountant” who specializes in helping business owners untangle messy tax situations. We cover the key types of taxes every entrepreneur should understand, and zoom in on the one that's most commonly misunderstood, and most likely to derail a future exit: sales tax. Jessica breaks down how sales tax applies to non-tangible goods like SaaS products and apps, what triggers a sales tax nexus, and why ignoring it can lead to massive headaches during due diligence. She also shares insight on the best and worst states to set up your business from a tax standpoint, when to file a Voluntary Disclosure Agreement (VDA), and how to stay compliant if you're selling across borders. If you're building a business with the goal of selling one day, this episode is a must-listen. It could save you from tax troubles that scare off buyers, or cost you more than you bargained for. Topics Discussed in this episode: The different types of taxes businesses should be aware of (03:45) Why sales tax is so important when selling your business (06:49) How sales tax is applied to software and apps (11:43) An overview of sales tax nexus (17:30) The different tax softwares that can help you figure out your taxes (19:50) The best and worst states to set up your business in (23:07) How to stay compliant if you have sales tax nexus (28:16) How tax works if you're selling in foreign countries (30:37) When to file a VDA (33:56) A major misconception founders have about sales tax that hurts them later (39:39) Mentions: Empire Flippers Podcasts Empire Flippers Marketplace Create an Empire Flippers account Subscribe to our weekly newsletter Jessicanomics.com Sit back, grab a coffee, and learn how to get your business taxes in order - before it's too late.
Ever wondered what it's like to raise capital in a Series A round? Listen to Guillaume Thomas, founder and CEO of Martingale Cognac, discuss his experience raising capital for his cognac startup. Find out how he convinced people to invest, what his greatest challenge was, and what he learnt from his investors. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? The Impact of AI, Fintech, and Fundraising on M&A Raising Value: A Fresh Perspective Behind the Scenes – From Startup to a $441 Million Exit Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
As Benjamin Franklin famously said, “In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.” But for online business owners, taxes aren't always so certain, especially when it comes to sales tax. In this episode, we're joined by Jessica Rhoads. Jessica is an internationally experienced CPA and self-confessed “dumpster fire accountant” who specializes in helping business owners untangle messy tax situations. We cover the key types of taxes every entrepreneur should understand, and zoom in on the one that's most commonly misunderstood, and most likely to derail a future exit: sales tax. Jessica breaks down how sales tax applies to non-tangible goods like SaaS products and apps, what triggers a sales tax nexus, and why ignoring it can lead to massive headaches during due diligence. She also shares insight on the best and worst states to set up your business from a tax standpoint, when to file a Voluntary Disclosure Agreement (VDA), and how to stay compliant if you're selling across borders. If you're building a business with the goal of selling one day, this episode is a must-listen. It could save you from tax troubles that scare off buyers, or cost you more than you bargained for. Topics Discussed in this episode: The different types of taxes businesses should be aware of (03:45) Why sales tax is so important when selling your business (06:49) How sales tax is applied to software and apps (11:43) An overview of sales tax nexus (17:30) The different tax softwares that can help you figure out your taxes (19:50) The best and worst states to set up your business in (23:07) How to stay compliant if you have sales tax nexus (28:16) How tax works if you're selling in foreign countries (30:37) When to file a VDA (33:56) A major misconception founders have about sales tax that hurts them later (39:39) Mentions: Empire Flippers Podcasts Empire Flippers Marketplace Create an Empire Flippers account Subscribe to our weekly newsletter Jessicanomics.com Sit back, grab a coffee, and learn how to get your business taxes in order - before it's too late.
In this episode, Adam Torres interviews Cameron Bishop, Managing Director at Raincatcher, about how business owners can get the most value when selling their company. Cameron shares insights from his experience leading PE-backed firms and acquiring over 50 companies. He explains why the lower middle market is often underserved, how to prepare a business for sale, and why expert guidance makes all the difference. Topics: Common mistakes sellers make Real-life exit success and failure stories Why deal structure and financials matter Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/ Visit our website: https://missionmatters.com/ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode, Adam Torres interviews Cameron Bishop, Managing Director at Raincatcher, about how business owners can get the most value when selling their company. Cameron shares insights from his experience leading PE-backed firms and acquiring over 50 companies. He explains why the lower middle market is often underserved, how to prepare a business for sale, and why expert guidance makes all the difference. Topics: Common mistakes sellers make Real-life exit success and failure stories Why deal structure and financials matter Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/ Visit our website: https://missionmatters.com/ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
One of the biggest challenges of selling your business is figuring out when and how to tell your employees. Announcing too early or too late can create a lot of headaches for both you and the buyer. You'll need to sort out big questions like: Will existing employee contracts continue, or will new ones be needed? What happens to their stock options and accrued leave? Should you ask them to sign non-competes? This episode of M&A Talk, with attorney Kyle Lawrence, dives into these crucial employee-related questions, helping you prepare for this important part of selling your business. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? Alternatives to Non-Competes with Employees Informing & Retaining Employees When Selling a Business How Your Employees Can Impact the Value of Your Business Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
Thinking of selling your business one day? Or never planning to? Either way, this conversation could change how you build. Rob Walling has seen it all. He's exited his own SaaS company and helped thousands of founders grow and sell through TinySeed, MicroConf, and his podcast “Startups for the Rest of Us.” In this episode, he sits down with Dan to talk about what founders get wrong about selling, why most exits are emotionally brutal, and how to actually create a business that gives you freedom: whether or not you ever sell it. CHAPTERS (00:00:00) Why Exits Matter (Even If You Never Sell) (00:03:48) The Emotional Reality of Selling Your Business (00:08:35) What Your Business is Actually Worth (Valuation Benchmarks) (00:11:45) The $10M Dream: Who Gets There, Who Doesn't (00:18:59) The SaaS Plateau: How to Know When You're Stuck (00:27:20) The 5 Marketing Channels Still Working in 2025 (00:30:23) Can Non-Technical Founders Still Win? (00:40:33) Two Traps Founders Fall Into When Selling a Business (00:46:50) Rob's Book: “Exit Strategy” LINKS Rob's book “Exit Strategy” (https://exitstrategybook.com/) Share your story/sponsor the pod (https://forms.gle/gKZFuwReHSvg8LD48) 22 free resources for founders (https://tropicalmba.com/resources) Connect with 1,000+ generous global entrepreneurs (https://dynamitecircle.com/) Read Dan's book “Before the Exit” (https://www.amazon.com/Before-Exit-Thought-Experiments-Entrepreneurs-ebook/dp/B07BN2KD1J) Dan Andrews is the co-founder of Dynamite Circle, author of Before the Exit, host of the Tropical MBA podcast, and an entrepreneur who has successfully launched and scaled multiple 7-figure businesses. CONNECT WITH DAN Email Dan@tropicalmba.com Follow on X (https://x.com/TropicalMBA) Follow on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) MORE EPISODES Our Lifestyle Business Non-Negotiables (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/lifestyle-business-non-negotiables) ‘I'm Fiscally Bitcoin and Socially Ethereum' (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/greg-gerber-crypto-2020) Is Dropshipping Still a Valid Business Model? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/dropshipping-valid-business-model) The Consultant's Handbook - How to Make Location Independent Income Quickly (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/consulting) The Amazon Gold Rush (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/amazongold) “Lifestyle Business” vs “Real Business” (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/lifestyle-vs-real-business)
Half of business sales fail due to issues buyers uncover during financial due diligence, but being prepared for due diligence can lead to higher sale prices and a smoother transaction. In this episode, CPA and due diligence expert Bill Wiersema discusses inaccurate revenue recognition, non-compliance with state and local tax laws, and how sellers can increase their business's value by addressing accounting changes, tax compliance, and non-recurring items. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? M&A Due Diligence Preparation Adjusting Financial Statements: A Complete Guide Preparing Financial Statements When Selling a Business Top Financial Challenges in Selling a Business Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
Are you prepared for the due diligence phase of selling your business? What sort of things will a strategic buyer want to see? In this episode, strategic buyer Michael Seitz shares his advice on selling your business, from ensuring your landlord is on board with the sale, to setting realistic price expectations, to how you should pick your attorney. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? M&A Guide | The 4 Types of Buyers of Businesses M&A Due Diligence Preparation Selling to a PE Firm as Part of a Roll-up Preparing Emotionally for the Closing Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
What if your exit could be the beginning of your best story, not the end? In this deep-dive workshop-style episode, Jerome Myers reunites with Homer Smith, financial strategist and founder of Konvergent Wealth, to unpack the financial and emotional blueprint for achieving true post-exit success. Whether you're years from selling your business or already navigating offers, this episode delivers the playbook for preserving family wealth and personal purpose. If you're a business owner asking, "What's next?" — this one's for you. [00:00 – 12:00] Two Paths After the Sale Why 70% of businesses brought to market don't sell—and how to avoid being one of them The post-sale "tragedy" no one talks about “Only about 6% of owners who go to market are highly satisfied with the outcome.” The three pillars of a successful exit: business readiness, market readiness, and owner readiness [12:01 – 26:00] The Real Reasons Founders Miss Out Unrealistic valuations and the myths around multiples Why internal partner conflict can kill a deal The #1 financial red flag for buyers: messy books The hidden danger of high customer concentration [26:01 – 36:00] The Founder's Exit Paradox Jerome breaks down the emotional crash that hits post-sale Creating a personal life plan that aligns with the deal terms “Most founders are walking into a sea of nothingness.” How the N.E.X.T. framework (Nourish, Evaluate, eXplore, Transcend) builds clarity and confidence [36:01 – 45:00] Planning to Win (Not Just Exit) Real case study: $106M egg farm deal and $20M tax savings Why your transaction team might be too small—or too inexperienced Planning five years out: why it's never too early to optimize [45:01 – End] Exit Into Excellence How post-exit optimization begins long before you close Jerome's call to founders: “Don't build a business without designing the life beyond it.” Resources to prepare: free whitepaper and transition readiness assessment Key Quotes: “The business, the market, and the owner all need to be ready.” - Homer Smith “Only about 6% of business owners who raise their hands to go to market are highly satisfied with the outcome.” - Homer Smith Connect with Homer Smith Website: http://www.konvergentwealth.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/homersmith4/ Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now
Chang Kim—friends call him CK—sold his company Tapas for more than $500 million and walked away without an earn-out. Instead of jumping into his next venture, he did something few founders have the nerve to do: he took a year off. In this episode of Built to Sell Radio, CK opens up about what life looks like when work becomes a choice, not a requirement. From cross-continental travel to difficult conversations with his kids about wealth, this is a rare, candid look at what happens after the wire hits.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
Many founders hit $3M in revenue and stall out. In this episode, Dan and Greg Crabtree break down why—and how to fix it. They discuss “profit truth”, how to spot financial red flags, and what metrics to track to scale beyond the messy middle. Plus: we're looking for listener stories. Have you implemented a system or framework that changed your business? Tell us about it. Your story could help 1,000s of entrepreneurs. Links from the episode: Form: Share your story / sponsor the pod (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdPXbgWniCDhLpt4QPvOvoXPHRRwDYw-izZszc92qAuMPnhhQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=101528162047962210125) Labor Efficiency Ratio Summary (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kuJAqNkX_qncqp3qYtT27z9R5IpJTYeMIZtzMRMSV7A/edit?usp=sharing) CHAPTERS (00:00:14) Introduction and the Death Zone 00:09:37) The Impact of Paying a Market-Based Wage (00:11:03) Behavioral Economics and Profit Truth (00:14:38) The Definition of a Fully Capitalized Business (00:16:49) Transitioning through the Death Zone (00:17:26) The Three Steps to Business Success (00:18:51) Remaining Profitable in the Death Zone (00:19:48) Different Capital Profiles and Cashflow (00:21:04) The Emotional Challenge of Spending in the Death Zone (00:24:03) The Executional Problem of Growth (00:24:24) Getting Through the Black Hole (00:27:02) The $3 Million Mark (00:28:25) The Worth of Going Through the Zone (00:31:32) Managing a Marketing Agency Past $5 Million (00:36:26) Common Mistakes Made by Founders (00:38:36) Understanding Profit Truth (00:45:33) Investing in Finance and Accounting CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com) Subscribe to the newsletter (https://tropicalmba.com/subscribe) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) Free resources for business owners (https://tropicalmba.com/resources) MORE EPISODES The Roadmap for Turning a Skill Into a $1M Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/7-figure-productized-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice) Shiny Object Syndrome (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/shiny-object-syndrome) The Anti-Agency Agency + High ROI Customer Service Strategies (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/anti-agency-high-roi)
What happens when you and your partner have different ideas of your business's future? What if that business partner is also a family member? In this episode, we talk with Chris Younger, an investment banker, about the challenges and potential solutions when selling a company due to partner conflict. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? M&A Basics | Why Do Business Owners Sell Their Business? Family Offices and Management Buyouts – What You Need to Know Navigating Partnership Disputes: Lessons from a Valuation Expert Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
In this expert interview, John Golden and Nick Spezio of EXBO Group delve into the current landscape of business acquisitions. Discover what buyers prioritize today, including quality of earnings and customer retention. Learn why early preparation and transparent financial records are essential for maximizing your business's value. Nick also highlights the increased competition among buyers and the importance of articulating a compelling growth narrative.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
What 160 founders taught us at DC Mexico—why deep customer engagement beats ads, how group workshops are replacing sales calls, what lifestyle entrepreneurs can learn from the FIRE movement, and how financial clarity and community still drive the biggest results. CHAPTERS (00:00:34) DC Mexico Recap (00:02:42) Why We Do This (Essay by Jeff Pecaro) (00:06:23) Deep Giveaways That Convert (00:12:31) High Ticket Offers (00:15:30) Lifestyle Business vs. FIRE Movement (00:19:07) Masterminds as Money Makers (00:21:08) The Real Challenge of Parenting? (00:24:49) Pivots and Resetting the Vision (00:25:58) Real AI Workflows Founders Are Using (00:26:31) Clarity, Courage, and Deal-Making (00:27:45) Nailing Your Best Marketing Channel (00:29:00) Know Your P&L CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com) Subscribe to the newsletter (https://tropicalmba.com/subscribe) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) Free resources for business owners (https://tropicalmba.com/resources) MORE EPISODES The Roadmap for Turning a Skill Into a $1M Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/7-figure-productized-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice) Shiny Object Syndrome (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/shiny-object-syndrome) The Anti-Agency Agency + High ROI Customer Service Strategies (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/anti-agency-high-roi)
1. “How do you like to qualify whether a buyer actually has the capital to close a deal?”Gut check vs. formal proofDifferences between PE-backed and strategic buyersWhat's reasonable to ask for and when in the process 2. “What are some of the best ways a buyer can demonstrate proof of funds early in a process?”Equity commitment lettersBank letters or balance sheetsFund-level detail for PE buyersIs a LOI ever enough? 3. “When you see a buyer lean heavily on an earnout or seller note, what does that tell you about their financial strength?”Earnouts as risk-transfer vs. alignment toolSign of limited capital vs. aggressive valuationHow to structure a seller note to reduce risk 4. “Have you ever had a deal fall apart because the buyer couldn't come up with the money?”Anecdotes of broken deals or red flags missedWhat should have been asked earlierLessons learned about screening buyers 5. “What questions should sellers be asking to vet a buyer's financial capacity?”Go-to questions to ask PE firms, family offices, strategicsWhat not to ask (or how not to ask it)How advisors help behind the scenes to validate 6. “If a seller gets an offer that looks strong on paper — big multiple, big earnout — what's your advice for validating it's real?”The danger of being ‘seduced by the headline multiple'Discounting for deal structure riskHow to tie offer strength to real-world execution ability 7. “Are there particular red flags you see when a buyer isn't financially credible?”Delayed diligence or ghostingLack of transparency around capital sourceToo many approvals needed — unclear decision-makersOffers contingent on future fundraising 8. “What's the advisor's role in protecting the seller from wasting time with unqualified buyers?”Quietly vetting buyers behind the scenesManaging buyer engagement based on credibilityPulling in references or past deal history 9. “What's your take on PE firms that haven't yet closed a platform in the space — does that change how we qualify them?”Platform vs. add-on credibilityOperational readiness of first-time buyersImportance of fund age and deployment schedule 10. “At what point in the process do you think it's fair for a seller to ask for hard financial evidence?”Pre-LOI vs. post-LOIHow to handle it without offendingWhen to walk if transparency isn't thereRELATED EPISODESEpisode 203: Selling Your Business to an Independent Sponsor. Listen now >>Episode 113: Deal Financing- Scenarios, Options and Implications for Both Sides. Listen now >>Episode 97: Understanding Search Funds as an IT Services Seller. Listen now >>Episode 99: IT Services Sellers: Evaluating the Size of a Buyer. Listen now >> Listen to Shoot the Moon on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Buy, sell, or grow your tech-enabled services firm with Revenue Rocket.
What really makes a buyer take notice? This episode delivers actionable steps to make your business irresistible to buyers. Learn how to highlight what matters most: a strong team, steady growth, and real long-term value. Guest Jon Martinka, a veteran M&A Advisor, also offers practical advice on how to attract buyers and maximize your exit. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? Increasing the Value of Your Business | The RVD Model Reducing Concentrations of Risk Before Selling Your Business Why Do Some Businesses Not Sell? M&A Due Diligence | Checklist & Overview Optimizing Your Business for a Successful Exit Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
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The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
Dan shares how advanced digital nomads use geography as a lever for business growth—and why most people get it wrong. If you're going to travel, do it with intention. This episode breaks down how. CHAPTERS (00:02:00) The Embargo on “Digital Nomad” (00:02:35) Why Most Nomads Miss the Point (00:05:38) 4 Ways to Travel Smart and Build Faster (00:06:13) Leverage Financial Arbitrage (00:09:16) Curate Better Relationships (00:16:20) Pick Places That Serve Your Goals (00:21:49) Reduce Lifestyle Overhead (00:22:30) Advanced vs. Beginner Nomading (00:25:09) Pitfalls to Avoid: Currency Traps, Isolation, Network Ceilings (00:29:44) The Challenge of Finding a Life Partner (00:31:46) Nomading as a Lever, Not a Lifestyle CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com) Subscribe to the newsletter (https://tropicalmba.com/subscribe) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) Free resources for business owners (https://tropicalmba.com/resources) MORE EPISODES The Roadmap for Turning a Skill Into a $1M Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/7-figure-productized-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice) Shiny Object Syndrome (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/shiny-object-syndrome) The Anti-Agency Agency + High ROI Customer Service Strategies (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/anti-agency-high-roi)
How much money do you need to live the life you want after you sell your business? How can you make sure that you get it? Wealth manager Joe LoPresti shares his experience on how you can prepare for the sale of your business. This podcast covers how you can prepare for the future you want and how to build a team of advisors who proactively help you manage your wealth after the sale. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? The Role of Family Offices in M&A Critical Financial and Estate Planning Strategies When Selling Your Business Will Selling Your Business Make You Happy? Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
Dan shares why most bootstrapped business partnerships go sideways—and what to do if yours already has. Resources Mentioned: ● When Partners Fall Out (HBR article) (https://hbr.org/1986/11/when-partners-fall-out) ● Tropical MBA financial dashboards (https://tropicalmba.com/resources) CHAPTERS (00:00:13) Why This Episode Exists (00:01:27) The Bootstrapper's Dilemma (00:03:07) The Gridlock Problem (00:04:56) When Life Goals Shift (00:06:32) The Ownership Trap (00:08:04) Why Money Makes It Worse (00:09:14) Identity, Resentment, and Role Confusion (00:15:24) The Minority Partner Illusion (00:17:26) Rock Band Rules (00:26:53) How to Reset a Broken Partnership (00:27:46) The Ultimate Test (00:30:15) The Goal: One Plus One Equals More Than Two CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com) Subscribe to the newsletter (https://tropicalmba.com/subscribe) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) Free resources for business owners (https://tropicalmba.com/resources) MORE EPISODES The Roadmap for Turning a Skill Into a $1M Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/7-figure-productized-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice) Shiny Object Syndrome (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/shiny-object-syndrome) The Anti-Agency Agency + High ROI Customer Service Strategies (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/anti-agency-high-roi)
Join me in the latest Dog Gone Positive Way episode as I interview Toni Shelaske. In part 3 of our interview, we discuss what it is like being an entrepreneur in the pet industry, knowing when to sell your business, and whether trade shows are worth it. She is the founder and former owner of Healthy Products, Pittsburgh's premier natural pet supply retailer. After successfully growing and selling the business after 16 years, she's now focused on sharing her expertise in entrepreneurship, pet wellness, business growth, and continuing her podcast, Toni Unleashed. Toni's journey is full of valuable takeaways for aspiring business owners, pet lovers, and anyone interested in building a purpose-driven brand.#SmallBusiness #Petco #PetSmart #podcast #Dog #Puppy You can find her on FB @toniunleashed, IG @toni.unleashed and on her website www.toniunleashed.com/
Did you know that you can use your retirement funds to buy a business? Jeremy Ames, co-founder and CEO of Guidant Financial, explains how individuals can invest in a business using a 401(k) rollover. This episode of M&A Talk covers the basics of a 401(k) rollover, including the requirements, the risks, and how to replenish your 401(k) after the sale is done. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? Retirement Funds Financing When Buying or Selling a Business Small Business Acquisition Financing Morgan & Westfield's Buyer's Guide Guidant Financial Additional Resources Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
This week, Dan goes back to the basics—because that's where the breakthroughs often live. This might be the single most important episode you listen to, especially if you feel like you've hit a plateau. He lays out the fundamentals of crafting a compelling offer, why most founders avoid doing it, and how your aversion to rejection might be holding you back from growth. Resources Mentioned: Download Dan's Offer Worksheet (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KeJZIy006b-EijEcXnA2aFuQuhRlACoKkX4p-baY8s4/edit?usp=sharing) $100M Offers by Alex Hormozi (https://www.amazon.com/100M-Offers-People-Stupid-Saying/dp/173747574X/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WferudpATTv2sOO4MGczmtxmW2Pa5ynbJaA1CnNLXmo2q9EsJBSBtlmjGQlP2NUurzmf7rM_RhgyNZ_tdvWeB_dLUC78-SnrCwlDmrPJqZiqoMNZi4-n5YZHg9ptwnpVfu2DvL8XCSjs829vOg7VtJ9qfmlJGK8yxD6NarM13uc4OUgqAFXDNdAWRY733cXG84l56HLe_WB6WczCgkIf48C7Uwo6e9kyFUH6MRUKQhKmziBIjX29td7_n4BsOgZcEWgtHEnsXH4_35z1rb-zI3a8gYVPEFh_vs8TFMu_ROY.tzKMDIY6NUrehnGctwxRplladKrVPGFXoqvTf_rJPBU&dib_tag=se&keywords=100m+offers+alex+hormozi&qid=1746029751&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1) The Ultimate Sales Letter by Dan Kennedy (https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Sales-Letter-4th-Customers/dp/B07P19G3Q5/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LBCPUX4R97TN&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.7tPW5zZqKUD21ytW_EwU1w.IC1Pl_8nl-B0qO-c1XCTr9ohT9iW4zw6OiUZ2I2ZRvI&dib_tag=se&keywords=dan+kennedy+ultimate+sales+letter&qid=1746029799&s=audible&sprefix=dan+kennedy+ultimate+sales+lette%2Caudible%2C139&sr=1-1) CHAPTERS (00:00:00) – The Biggest Lever Under $300K (00:00:29) – Back to Basics: Offers (00:02:07) – Offer vs Product (00:03:57) – Why Founders Avoid Offers (00:07:34) – Testing in the Market (00:08:57) – The Offer Framework (00:13:14) – Iterate and De-Risk (00:16:08) – Final Thoughts & Resources CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC Subscribe to the newsletter Follow us on Instagram MORE EPISODES The Roadmap for Turning a Skill Into a $1M Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/7-figure-productized-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice) Shiny Object Syndrome (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/shiny-object-syndrome) The Anti-Agency Agency + High ROI Customer Service Strategies (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/anti-agency-high-roi)
Overview: Join hosts Amy and James in this episode of the SMB Community Podcast as they delve into the best practices for selling your Managed Service Provider (MSP) business. Learn about the emotional and financial facets of selling an MSP, the importance of having a clear exit strategy, and ensuring a good fit with potential buyers. The hosts also discuss the recent technical issues with Zoom and Spotify and provide insights into Microsoft break glass accounts. Stay updated with the latest on the antitrust cases involving Meta and Google. Additionally, James shares information about upcoming events and seminars that focus on mergers and acquisitions, AI, cybersecurity, and cloud. Don't miss out on this informative and engaging episode! --- Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction 01:46 Question of the Week: WWhen is the best time to sell your business? 10:06 Zoom Outage and Tech Troubles 13:32 Microsoft Break Glass Accounts 16:34 Meta and Google Antitrust Issues 22:21 Personal Stories and Upcoming Events 26:37 Conclusion and Farewell --- New Book Release: I'm proud to announce the release of my new book, The Anthology of Cybersecurity Experts! This collection brings together 15 of the nation's top minds in cybersecurity, sharing real-world solutions to combat today's most pressing threats. Whether you're an MSP, IT leader, or simply passionate about protecting your data, this book is packed with expert advice to help you stay secure and ahead of the curve. Available now on Amazon! https://a.co/d/f2NKASI --- Sponsor Memo: Since 2006, Kernan Consulting has been through over 30 transactions in mergers & acquisitions - and just this past year, we have been involved in six (6). If you are interested in either buying, selling, or valuation information, please reach out. There is alot of activity and you can be a part of it. For more information, reach out at kernanconsulting.com
When are you obligated to disclose information about your business to the buyer? In this episode, attorney Darshan Kulkarni emphasizes the need to understand risk and be transparent about material information. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? Negotiating an M&A Purchase Agreement | M&A Tips M&A Due Diligence | Checklist & Overview The Role of M&A Lawyers When Selling Your Business Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
Dan shares a relationship-first strategy for landing bigger deals—no funnels, no ads, just a focused system that's often more affordable and effective than a social media strategy. He's joined by agency owner James Feng, who's using this approach to grow from $300K to $1M. (Dan's template) The Rolodex Method + Marketing Tracker (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jRV_ncgCWAMRB7tZZtnO7x0Tn5sE46-tYkwN6paVG3A/edit?usp=sharing) CHAPTERS (00:00:00) Intro (00:01:01) The Old School Way to Get Your Dream Clients (00:04:00) How high-level decision makers make decisions (00:06:03) Agency Owner $300K to $1M (00:07:38) Who is James Feng? (00:11:22) Adjusting Pricing for Better Client Acquisition (00:13:49) Understanding the Landscape of High-Level Accounts (00:15:34) Building Relationships with Key Decision Makers (00:22:36) The Rolodex Hustle: Creating a System for Networking (00:27:22) Leveraging Cultural Insights for Business Success CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com) Subscribe to the newsletter (https://tropicalmba.com/subscribe) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) MORE EPISODES The Roadmap for Turning a Skill Into a $1M Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/7-figure-productized-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice) Shiny Object Syndrome (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/shiny-object-syndrome) The Anti-Agency Agency + High ROI Customer Service Strategies (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/anti-agency-high-roi)
What happens after the dream comes true? In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty speaks with John Rood—entrepreneur, coach, and author of Beyond the Exit—about the emotional and identity shifts that follow selling a business. John shares his personal post-exit experience and insights from interviewing over 70 entrepreneurs who have navigated the same uncharted territory. From the shock of sudden stillness to rediscovering joy and meaning, this conversation reveals the unspoken side of success. Whether you're preparing for your own exit or reflecting on what's next, this is a must-listen for founders and visionaries alike. About the Guest:John Rood is the author of Beyond the Exit: What Successful Entrepreneurs Do with the Rest of Their Lives. After building and selling his education business to private equity, John became fascinated by what happens after the "big win." He now helps entrepreneurs redefine purpose, identity, and fulfillment beyond business success. He lives in the Chicago area with his wife and sons. Key Takeaways: Selling a business often leads to an unexpected emotional void—loss of identity, purpose, and routine. Many entrepreneurs underestimate the psychological transition post-exit, feeling unmoored or invisible after years of high momentum. True meaning after the exit doesn't always mean building another business—it can look like stillness, healing, or exploring forgotten passions. Structuring your life across health, relationships, personal growth, and fulfillment can prevent post-exit burnout. Your best work might still be ahead—just in a different form. Connect with John Rood: Book:Beyond the Exit LinkedIn:John Rood Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch: DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.club Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/ #HealthyMind #Entrepreneurship #LifeAfterExit #JohnRood #BeyondTheExit #StartupLife #MentalWellness #FounderLife #MindsetMatters #podmatch #healthyexit
This episode is brought to you by Boulay, the industry standard for Quality of Earnings, tax, and audit services, serving search fund entrepreneurs for 20+ years*This episode is brought to you by Oberle Risk Strategies: Insurance Broker and Insurance Due Diligence Provider for Search Funds and Other Small-to-Medium-Sized Businesses * This week, I'm joined by Dr. Sherry Walling, a clinical psychologist, speaker, podcaster, and best-selling author. She is also the Founder of ZenFounder, which aims to help entrepreneurs and CEOs navigate issues of transition, rapid growth, loss, and any manner of complex human experience. She is also the host of the ZenFounder podcast, which has been called a “must listen” by both Forbes and Entrepreneur Magazine and has been downloaded more than 1M+ times.Sherry first came onto my radar when she published her first book, the aptly named The Entrepreneur's Guide to Keeping Your Sh*t Together, which discusses many of the topics that we've explored over the years in this podcast related to managing your psychology as an entrepreneur and CEO.Her most recent book is titled Exit Strategy: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Selling Your Business without Regret, which goes beyond purely commercial considerations, and explores the largely unexplored personal considerations specific to the largest transaction of most entrepreneurs' lives.
What is happening in the world of corporate finance? How did we get where we are today and what does the future hold? Jeff Hooke returns to M&A Talk to continue the conversation about the most important lessons he has learned over 40 years in the investment banking world. He discusses trends over the past 10-20 years and relates where he thinks the markets are heading today. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? The Myth of Private Equity: An Inside Look at Wall Street's Transformative Investments by Jeffrey C. Hooke 18 Differences Between Valuing Public and Private Businesses How to Sell an Online Business: A Case Study Additional Resources Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
Send us a textReady to slash your tax bill? Schedule your free consultation and let's strategize your tax savings together! Book now at: https://www.prosperlcpa.com/apply Or, if you still need more time, here are some other ways to begin winning the tax game... Take our free Tax Planning Checklist & learn about what tax savings may be available for you in our minicourse at https://taxplanningchecklist.com At the very least, get on our newsletter to gain access to free live events and exclusive insight you won't find anywhere else: https://www.prosperlcpa.com/newsletter-subscriptionGet your FREE Personalized Tax Planning Video at: https://www.prosperlcpa.com/5minutetaxplan Selling your business represents a transformational financial event that requires extensive tax planning and collaboration to avoid potentially massive tax overpayments.• Notify your tax advisor immediately when considering selling your business• Assemble the right tax team capable of exit planning - many CPAs lack this expertise• Consider tax implications in negotiations - understand the differences between asset sales and stock sales• Buyers typically prefer asset sales for immediate tax benefits and liability protection• Sellers usually benefit more from stock sales but might accept lower prices• Determine what you'll do with the sale proceeds - this affects your overall tax strategy• Non-passive losses can offset capital gains - not just capital losses• Real estate professional status combined with cost segregation can create substantial tax deductions• Advanced strategies include owner financing, deferred sales trusts, and charitable structures• Reliable books and records are essential for accurate basis calculation and asset valuationIf you need help with selling your business or rental portfolios and don't have the right team in place, reach out at prosperalcpa.com/apply.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
What if your struggle to follow through isn't a discipline problem — but a signal? This week, Dan unpacks why many entrepreneurs bounce between ideas early on, and how that phase might be necessary, not broken. He shares a simple framework for telling the difference between just another project… and a business worth going all-in on. CHAPTERS (00:00:13) Intro + Listener Question (00:02:03) Why $150/Month Is a Great Start (00:02:58) The 100 Ideas Phase (00:03:48) Recognizing Early Market Signals (00:04:51) Execution Only Matters After Momentum (00:07:18) The Classic Founder Venn Diagram (00:07:59) Pitfalls of Passion Projects (00:11:54) High Ticket vs. Consumer Products (00:13:54) Designing Your First Offer (00:15:04) Why Market Feedback Solves the Focus Problem (00:16:17) Final Advice: Stay Playful and Keep Experimenting CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com/) Subscribe to the newsletter (https://tropicalmba.com/subscribe) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) MORE EPISODES The Roadmap for Turning a Skill Into a $1M Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/7-figure-productized-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice) Shiny Object Syndrome (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/shiny-object-syndrome) The Anti-Agency Agency + High ROI Customer Service Strategies (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/anti-agency-high-roi)
Do you know how an investment banker can help you sell your company? Do you know the questions to ask to find the right one to help close the transaction? Bill Snow, an experienced Investment Banker, offers his insights into the top five myths surrounding hiring and working with an investment banker. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? Net Working Capital (NWC) for M&A – A Complete Guide Do I Need to Hire a Local Business Broker? What Percentage of Businesses Sell? Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
Some of the “smart moves” founders make might be signs of hidden resistance. This week, Dan and Ian break down 10 behaviors that can quietly kill momentum, from expanding marketing channels too early to pausing sales during busy stretches. They also dive into why scaling too soon backfires, the hidden risks of declining assets, and what happens when you delay building management layers. CHAPTERS (00:00:13) Introduction (00:01:09) Understanding Resistance in Business and In Life (00:04:51) A Balanced Marketing Diet (Finally!) (00:09:15) Pause Selling Because We're So Busy! (00:12:03) Keeping Team Members Maximally Busy (00:16:08) Cutting a Clever Deal With a Declining Asset (00:20:47) I Simply Won't Do ideas That Don't Scale! (00:26:40) I'm Going to Quit My Job! (00:29:43) The Myth of the Great Idea (00:33:49) I'm Re-Investing In My Product! (00:37:21) Building an Audience: Start With The Basics (00:40:16) Should I Build Out a Management Layer? Tempting! CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com/) Subscribe to the newsletter (https://tropicalmba.com/subscribe) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) MORE EPISODES The Roadmap for Turning a Skill Into a $1M Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/7-figure-productized-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice) Shiny Object Syndrome (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/shiny-object-syndrome) The Anti-Agency Agency + High ROI Customer Service Strategies (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/anti-agency-high-roi)
Take a look behind the curtain at how Acquire.com got started and how it is changing the M&A marketplace. Andrew Gazdecki, CEO of Acquire.com, discusses his platform's role in helping bootstrap SaaS startups be acquired and selling multimillion-dollar software companies. He shares stories, insights, tips, and predictions of AI in the M&A world. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? How to Sell an Online Business: A Case Study Top 5 M&A Value Drivers for Tech & Software Companies Preparing Emotionally for the Closing Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
Dan shares strategies for creating value as an entrepreneur - from maximizing personal productivity to defending your creative space so you can build something meaningful. He breaks down the common roadblocks entrepreneurs face at the $300K revenue mark and shares practical wisdom for navigating difficult personalities in business and in life. Book recos form the episode: “Getting Things Done” (https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Things-Done-Workbook-Productivity/dp/0143133438/ref=asc_df_0143133438?mcid=8cf409580165307c978272271b141e8d&hvocijid=15444100736713862639-0143133438-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=721245378154&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15444100736713862639&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007527&hvtargid=pla-2281435179258&psc=1) “5 Types of People Who Can Ruin Your Life” (https://www.amazon.com/Types-People-Ruin-Your-Life/dp/B0DV6KLYC6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2XI6HASJOC1CI&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vB7JCEt3Og8cDygXrXeEWuprrnGZbCo9bXz_8hivMgw.ljlmur6bThrAhnt8mX938E0x47HbPWXHVGLTBrS1JwI&dib_tag=se&keywords=5+types+of+people+who+can+ruin+your+life+workbook&qid=1743617303&sprefix=5+types+of+peo%2Caps%2C121&sr=8-1) “The Courage to Be Disliked” (https://www.amazon.com/The-Courage-to-Be-Disliked-audiobook/dp/B07BRPW98K/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2J6KLS4URJPZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.6M0xO7k-7OIyut3WpFLx89nhn98gTCAwAFJbzRcsBAsPYnWu8eYEzx6UuC9P43UDe-4GfUHDnBPOxhPsiCPZ5EjePC6L_-mhWJ0xAy26V-M.wyFwtN60MQaRbI5NabZRkzp2HRhm4B4dCdxhHMjIgjg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+courage+to+be+disliked&qid=1743617338&s=audible&sprefix=the+courage+to+b%2Caudible%2C133&sr=1-1) CHAPTERS (00:00:13) Intro (00:00:45) “Entrepreneurs create more value than they consume” (00:02:12) Create & define space for creativity (00:03:52) Consistency in daily activities (00:04:55) “Getting Things Done” (00:05:59) What's your “one thing”? (00:06:22) Setting up for reactive success (00:08:30) Being your own leader (Manage productive time) (00:11:40) Change meeting structure to protect creative time (00:15:17) The $300K sticking point (00:15:55) Key blockers: marketing systems & hiring decisions (00:17:46) Taking a pay cut in order to grow (00:18:53) Scale beyond one-to-one service delivery (00:19:56) Organizational design is critical (00:21:18) “The Five Types of People Who Will Ruin Your Life” (00:23:07) “The Courage to Be Disliked” (00:24:11) Improving business and personal relationships (00:25:39) Wrap Up CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com/) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) PLAYLIST "The Tailwind Index" & Dodging Business Blindspots (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/tailwind-index-dodging-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice)
How do you increase your company's value? Is it as simple as raising prices? Pricing expert Mark Stiving explains how to explore the value that your product or services offer your customers and how you can turn that value proposition into more value in your company. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? Increasing the Value of Your Business | The RVD Model Selling Value: How to Win More Deals at Higher Prices by Mark Stiving Instant Profits: How to Raise Prices Without Losing Customers by Mark Stiving Impact Pricing: Your Blueprint for Driving Profits by Mark Stiving Win, Keep, Grow: How to Price and Package to Accelerate Your Subscription Business by Mark Stiving Additional Resources: Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
Dan and Ian break down what makes a great lifestyle business in 2025—one that delivers both strong cash flow and location freedom. They dive into the nuanced tension between building a lifestyle-friendly business and “going big,” and share five essential design principles for creating a business that supports the life you want. CHAPTERS (00:00:14) Intro (00:04:25) Lifestyle Business vs “Going Big” (00:10:25) Cash Flow Logic that Solves Financial Needs of Founders (00:19:04) Solid Perspective on Acquiring Customers (Strong Channel Logic) (00:24:05) You're Actively Turning Away Customers (00:28:26) You Can Leave the Business for 4 Weeks Minimum (Cash Flow Does Not Suffer) (00:34:07) Cash Flow Does Not Suffer Based on Your Location CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com/) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) PLAYLIST "The Tailwind Index" & Dodging Business Blindspots (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/tailwind-index-dodging-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice)
SMALL BUSINESS FINANCE– Business Tax, Financial Basics, Money Mindset, Tax Deductions
Thinking about selling your business? The 2026 tax changes could cost you big if you don't plan ahead. In this episode, we uncover a little-known strategy that helps business owners sell their companies tax-free while protecting their employees and legacy—Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs). You'll learn: ✅ Why selling to private equity or a competitor could hurt your business ✅ How an EOT can help you cash out without paying capital gains tax ✅ How to keep your employees, company culture, and vision intact If you're planning an exit, don't wait until it's too late! The 2026 tax reforms are coming fast, and the right strategy could save you millions. Next Steps:
How can preparing for due diligence help sell your company? Will being prepared actually help close the deal? Rosco Graves, an accountant and due diligence expert, shares his insights into why preparing for due diligence is crucial to a smooth sale process. View the complete show notes for this episode. Want To Learn More? M&A Due Diligence | Checklist & Overview The Importance of Preparing for Due Diligence M&A Guide | The 4 Types of Buyers of Businesses Additional Resources Selling your business? Schedule a free consultation today. Download The Art of The Exit: The Complete Guide to Selling Your Business Download Acquired: The Art of Selling a Business With $10 Million to $100 Million in Revenue If you have any topic or guest suggestions, please email them to podcast@morganandwestfield.com.
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
What if 90 days from now, your business was sharper, more focused, and positioned for real growth? In this episode, Dan walks you through a simple but powerful 10-question framework designed to help you identify your biggest challenge, clarify your team's focus, and uncover new opportunities to stand out in your market. This is the same exercise that 7- and 8-figure founders in DC BLACK worked through on their recent trip to Phuket—a way to step back, reset strategy, and get clear on what matters. Grab a pen and follow along. You might walk away with a concrete plan for the next 90 days. Want the worksheet? Newsletter subscribers get it for free. Sign up at (https://tropicalmba.com/subscribe (https://tropicalmba.com/subscribe)) to grab your copy. CHAPTERS (00:02:16) Biggest challenge and next steps (00:05:20) Focus (00:07:11) Understand your customer (00:11:33) Positioning (00:14:42) Innovation and unique advantages (00:20:02) Network (00:21:42) Business model (00:23:51) Team (00:25:23) Cadence & leadership (00:27:17) Bonus CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com/) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) PLAYLIST "The Tailwind Index" & Dodging Business Blindspots (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/tailwind-index-dodging-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice)
The Tropical MBA Podcast - Entrepreneurship, Travel, and Lifestyle
Dan and Ian share key insights from their Thailand mastermind event, exploring how successful entrepreneurs balance curiosity, diverse business models, and personal life. They talk about navigating market uncertainties, implementing AI workflows to enhance business operations, and the irreplaceable value of in-person networking events. And unlike magic mushrooms, the benefits of attending an event like this will ideally last a lifetime. CHAPTERS (00:00:25) Introduction and Reflections on Thailand (00:02:01) Key Lessons from 7 & 8-Figure Mastermind (00:03:43) The Power of Curiosity in Entrepreneurship (00:08:54) Diverse Business Models and Common Traits (00:11:46) Work-Life Balance and Business Durability (00:14:06) Living in Thailand: Value and Lifestyle (00:16:44) Tax Strategies and Wealth Creation in Thailand (00:17:12) The Power of Bootstrapping and Financial Independence (00:19:21) Navigating Market Uncertainty and Business Durability (00:22:32) AI Workflows: Revolutionizing Business Operations (00:27:07) The Value of In-Person Networking and Community Building CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com/) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) PLAYLIST "The Tailwind Index" & Dodging Business Blindspots (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/tailwind-index-dodging-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice)