In the chaotic world of marketing mergers and acquisitions, how do you ensure a "clean exit"? In this episode, Jonathan Baker, practice lead for mergers and acquisitions at Punctuation, dives into the critical intricacies of M&A in the marketing services sector. He shares the emotionally charged journey of selling a business and uncovers strategies that transcend mere financial gain, focusing instead on the value-driven aspects that make a deal truly beneficial. You’ll discover… Why the...

What happens when you blend the financial expertise of big firms with the agility and personal touch of a nimble boutique? Discover how one company is revolutionizing the M&A landscape for middle-market companies. In this episode, Nicholas Spezio, Director of Transaction Services at the Exbo Group, dives into the world of mergers and acquisitions, discussing the unique needs and challenges faced by growth-stage companies and their investors. You’ll discover… The compelling story behind...

Ever wondered how the niche market of self-storage investments works and how it can become a powerful asset in your real estate portfolio? Discover the unexpected allure of self-storage and the success secrets behind this burgeoning industry. In this episode, Matthew Horne, Co-Founder and CEO of Storage Point Capital, dives deep into the intriguing world of self-storage investments and acquisitions, uncovering why this seemingly mundane sector could be the golden ticket for savvy...

Struggling with investment strategies in today's tumultuous market? Discover how the pros stay agile, creative, and profitable even during cash flow negative periods. In this episode, John Dickie, Partner at HighVista Strategies, opens up about navigating the lower middle market during financial downturns and seizing unique opportunities that many overlook. You’ll discover… The hidden opportunities in tough markets that can turn challenges into advantages.Creative investment strategies and...

How can you transition a business successfully from a retiring entrepreneur to the next generation? This episode dives into the human element of mergers and acquisitions, revealing strategies to make these transitions smooth and profitable. Brian Shields, co-founder of Handoff Partners, shares his journey of combining financial expertise with operational insights to help retiring entrepreneurs pass their businesses to the next generation. In this episode, you’ll discover… The significance of...

Unlock the secrets of sustainable growth and discover the power of a founder's mindset in transforming consumer brands, as revealed by industry veteran Mark Tarchetti. In this episode, Mark Tarchetti, founder of Alchemy-Rx and author of "Pick a Lane: Growth Strategy in a Fast-Changing World," shares his insights on reimagining businesses and implementing practical growth strategies. You'll discover… Why relying solely on acquisitions may not be the solution for sustainable growth in consumer...

Imagine a world where you could buy and sell businesses with just a few clicks, all while having the peace of mind that your transaction is protected. Sounds too good to be true? Not anymore, thanks to Flippa's innovative platform and their new game-changing capability. In this episode, Blake Hutchison, CEO of Flippa discusses how Flippa is revolutionizing the way individuals buy and sell online businesses by offering a seamless, all-in-one platform with an exclusive new feature that...

What does it take to successfully sell a business and achieve a fulfilling outcome for all parties involved? Learn the secrets from an M&A expert who has helped countless business owners navigate the complex world of mergers and acquisitions. In this episode we speak with Scott Bushkie, founder of Cornerstone Business Services, an investment banking firm. We dive into the strategies and approaches that have made Scott and his team successful in helping business owners sell their companies...

98% of the time, we fail to understand the intricacies of secondary market transactions... How does rep and warranty insurance play a crucial role in closing these deals? In this episode, Mike Bego, managing partner of Kline Hill Partners, reveals the secrets of the secondary private equity market and the role of rep and warranty insurance. In this episode, you’ll discover… The advantages of rep and warranty insurance that help close transactions smoothly.The types of clients Kline Hill...

In today’s ever-changing deal landscape, there’s no room for a win-lose mindset. Discover how a collaborative approach can not only navigate but also thrive in tumultuous times. In this episode, Matt Bodnar, founder of Eidolon Investments, delves into innovative deal structures during challenging times, emphasizing the crucial need for new skills and collaborative negotiation tactics. In this episode, you’ll discover: A new insurance product that could revolutionize the lower middle...

Are you ready to dive into the strategies behind building thriving businesses and impactful partnerships? Discover how partnering with the right leaders can transform companies and markets. In this episode, John Block, co-founder and CEO of Unity Partners, takes us through his fascinating journey from childhood aspirations to leading a game-changing firm that builds better businesses together. In this episode, you’ll discover… Why John chose the name "Unity Partners" for his firmThe secret...

Are you ready to transform the way you think about mergers and acquisitions? Discover the secrets to a clean exit and the revolutionary approach of conscious capitalism in this enlightening episode of M&A Masters. Join host Patrick Stroth, an expert in executive and transactional liability, as he welcomes Sunny Vanderbeck, co-founder and managing partner of Satori Capital. Based in Dallas, Satori Capital is renowned for its multi-strategy investment firm ethos based on conscious...

In this episode, I sit down with Brett Story, the founder of Britehorn Partners, a leading middle-market investment bank. They delve into Brett's transition from corporate law to M&A, the founding and rebranding of Britehorn Partners, and why staying focused on the middle market can be more rewarding than chasing larger deals.  Brett also shares insights into the unique challenges and rewards of working with owner-operators to achieve successful exits and the evolving landscape of...

In this episode of M&A Masters, we're joined by Trever Acers, Managing Director of Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation. With over 20 years in the transactions field, Trever brings a wealth of experience and a unique approach to mergers and acquisitions.  Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation focuses on the lower middle market, aiming to serve clients with enterprise values between $25 to $250 million across the United States. The firm prides itself on its client-centric...

In this episode of M&A Masters, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sharon Heaton, founder of sbLiftOff. SbLiftOff specializes in providing advisory services to founder-led businesses and government contracting organizations across the United States, focusing on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and more.  Sharon, also the author of the Forbes bestseller LIFT OFF: 12 Things to Know Before Selling Your Business, shares invaluable insights into the world of M&A, the journey of...

This episode of M&A Masters features Tom Brinegar, the Chief Financial Officer of PEAK Resources, a trailblazing technology and systems integrator based in Denver. Under Tom's financial stewardship, PEAK Resources recently navigated through a complex and successful acquisition by a strategic buyer. With a rich background in finance and the heart of an entrepreneur, Tom's journey offers a unique lens on the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions from the perspective of the...

Discover the transformative journey of consumer brands into lucrative M&A opportunities… In today’s episode, join us as we welcome Jason Somerville, founding partner of GW Partners. With a unique blend of operational consulting, financial management, strategic planning, and M&A advisory, Jason and his team are known for elevating consumer brands into prime acquisition targets. Dive into Jason’s transition from investment banking to entrepreneurial success.Unearth the impact of...

Discover the art of strategic mergers in architecture and engineering with M&A expert David Kimbrell. In this episode of M&A Masters, join me as we engage with David Kimbrell, a seasoned M&A authority in the architectural and engineering sector. With over four decades of unmatched expertise, David has masterminded the art of buying, selling, and advising firms in this specialized niche, revolutionizing the concept of strategic mergers and acquisitions. Delve into the intricate...

In this episode, my guest is Tom Zucker, President and Founder of EdgePoint Capital.    Cleveland based, EdgePoint Capital’s advisors bring up-market executive transaction knowledge and real-world M&A and business leadership experience, enabling them to guide owners and founders through transactions and attract qualified buyers.    Tom will share his M&A insight, including: The importance of timing and preparation His commitment to the lower middle market EdgePoint Capital’s ideal...

What insights does a top M&A attorney have to share about buying and selling businesses?   Spending nearly three decades in California’s dynamic business environment, my guest, attorney Addison Adams, has become known as California’s go-to voice on mergers and acquisitions.    In this episode, he’ll share his M&A expertise, including: M&A in California Non-Compete Agreements Bulk Sale Law Reps & Warranties Insurance Predictions for Next Year And more

In this episode, we’re taking a look at a unique independent sponsor’s M&A strategies.   My guest Bakari Akil is the founder of Graves Hall Capital, which seeks to buy and run businesses where owners and founders are seeking an exit.   Bakari will share his M&A journey and advice for enticing a seller to do business with you.   He’ll also cover: Why he believes buying companies is the best wealth building strategy What types of companies he’s looking for The role of reps &...

How can M&A advisors help business owners maximize and monetize their life’s work?   That’s the mission of M&A advisory and exit planning consulting firm TobinLeff, whose founder David Tobin is here to speak with me in this episode.    David will share how his firm builds relationships long before the deal and meets clients wherever they are in the M&A journey.    He’ll also cover M&A in the professional services and marketing sector, his ideal client profile, and more.

What if you had a step-by-step guide to the M&A process? My guest, investment banker Bill Snow, is the author of Mergers & Acquisitions for Dummies, an insider’s handbook about buying and selling companies. In this episode, he’ll share his M&A expertise and give an inside look at the process of writing his book.  He’ll also share the one tip that tests if your investment banker has the right negotiation skills for your deal—and give his take on reps and warranties insurance. 

In the case of an unexpected death or disability, a business can face hardship and significant economic consequences…   But in this episode, we’re covering two essential products that can mitigate this risk: key person life insurance and excess disability insurance.   Here to speak with me is Lynne Rosenberg, President of Innovative Solutions, which provides broad market access to leading carriers of annuities, life, disability, and long term care insurance.   She’ll cover what businesses...