Season 8 | Ep39 Matt Tyson on two life-changing exits and the personal cost of chasing growth

What’s the point in building a business if you lose everything at home?

On this week’s episode of The RAG Podcast, I’m joined by Matt Tyson, founder of Knockout Consulting and former owner of two successful payroll companies.

Matt has achieved what many founders dream of—two life-changing exits in 15 years. But behind the success was a personal cost he never expected. In his pursuit of business growth, he lost sight of the very reason he started—his family.

In this deeply honest conversation, we discuss:

• How Matt built and exited two payroll businesses
• The pressure of selling a company during uncertain times
• What he’d do differently to protect his marriage and mental health
• Why emotional balance matters just as much as financial goals
• Strategies for building a business that doesn't cost you everything else

If you’re a founder chasing an exit or deep in growth mode, this is a powerful reminder to check in on what really matters.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Growth and Balance

02:52 Matt Tyson's Journey and Business Philosophy

06:03 Transition from Banking to Payroll

09:08 Building and Exiting Businesses

12:01 The Importance of Compliance and Contractor Welfare

14:54 Navigating Business Growth and Personal Life

17:47 The Emotional Impact of Business Success

20:54 The Role of Family and Support Systems

23:49 Establishing Walker Smith and Growth Strategies

27:01 Innovations in Contractor Support

29:41 The Journey of Building a Group of Businesses

32:56 Recognizing Personal Struggles and Changes

35:48 Reflections on Work-Life Balance

38:43 Conclusion and Lessons Learned

42:43 Navigating Business Exits During Uncertain Times

45:38 The Importance of Financial Control and Cost Management

49:27 Identity and Purpose After Selling a Business

50:39 The Emotional Impact of Business Transitions

56:52 Lessons Learned from Personal Relationships and Business

01:00:44 Finding Balance: Work, Life, and Personal Fulfillment

01:09:29 Key Strategies for Business Growth and Exit Planning

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