Exit Paradox cover image

Exit Paradox

From $100M Exit to Fulfilment: Josh Payne’s Playbook

Feb 28, 2025
Josh Payne, founder of Stack Commerce, shares his transformative journey after selling his company for nearly $100 million. He discusses the emotional aftermath, emphasizing how money didn’t solve everything. Family takes precedence now, and he reflects on the identity shifts entrepreneurs face post-exit. By training for an Ironman, Josh highlights lessons in overcoming mental barriers and the importance of finding purpose beyond mere profit. His focus is on creating sustainable businesses while prioritizing well-being and family values.
55:16

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Josh Payne’s post-exit journey highlights the necessity of redefining personal priorities, emphasizing family engagement over past business obsessions.
  • His experience training for an Ironman competition served as a catalyst for personal growth, enabling him to confront fears and adjust expectations.

Deep dives

The Post-Exit Awakening

After selling his company, Josh Payne experienced a mix of shock and disappointment, realizing that the financial gain did not alleviate his insecurities or emotional baggage. Initially, he expected happiness to follow the sale, but instead found himself grappling with the same inner conflicts he had before, leading to feelings of unhappiness and confusion. This awareness prompted him to seek further understanding of himself, particularly in relation to his priorities in work and family. He recognized that despite achieving a significant financial milestone, true happiness required deeper internal changes rather than just monetary success.

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