Katie Walker, Principal at Plexus Capital, discusses the financial challenges CEOs face in ETA deals, emphasizing that 'hope is not a strategy' for growth. Mark Mullins, a sales consultant, highlights the critical need for structured sales systems to optimize performance. Dustin Sellers, Managing Partner at Next Coast Legacy, shares insights on the urgency of operational improvements post-acquisition. Together, they explore how new CEOs must navigate the complexities of sales execution and growth in leveraged environments, urging realism over optimism.