“We'll always meet with any business owner to talk about where they are today and what their goals are. That can lead to one of three results. One, we decide to move toward an exit planning and consulting process… The second option is we go to market, we've developed an assessment of value, and we agree that now is the time. And the third option is, it might not be the right option to sell and we're happy to spend that time and to learn.” In this episode of Entreprenista, we sat down with Mary McKinney Flaherty, a Pittsburgh-based M&A advisor who works with business owners to maximize and monetize their life's work. Today, you’ll hear about Mary’s non-linear career path, how practicing law is in her blood, and her key advice for business owners who are just starting out. Tune in and learn all about the ups and downs of selling a business and why it’s so important to learn about your options sooner rather than later. We talked about:  What it means to develop an exit plan and sell a business (09:31) Selling a business isn’t always the right path (13:40) How business valuations are calculated for sale (15:56) Nothing really happens without a plan (19:51) Selling a business is complicated, but experts can help (31:39) Connect with Mary: LinkedIn Contact   If you’re interested in connecting with Mary and her team, head to https://tobinleff.com/contact and mention Entreprenista for a free consultation. Founders Weekend: Join us from May 3-5th at The Ritz-Carlton in Orlando for your opportunities to connect and build relationships with the most powerful women in business. We can’t wait to be with you in person at our Founders Weekend Wealth & Wellness Retreat. Reserve your tickets here.  Are you ready to make meaningful business connections that lead to real business results?    Join our Entreprenista League community of women founders at entreprenista.com/join! You’ll have access to a private community of like-minded Entreprenistas who are making an impact in business every day, special discounts on business products and solutions, exclusive content, private events, the opportunity to have your story featured on our website and social channels, and access to Office Hours with top founders who have been on our show! We can’t wait to welcome you, support you, and be part of your business journey!   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of The Entreprenista Podcast - the most fun business meeting for women founders and leaders. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Apple Podcasts | TuneIn | Spotify | Stitcher | iHeart Radio | GooglePlay   Be sure to share your favorite episodes across social media to help us reach more amazing female founders, like you.