

Business Buying Strategies from The Dealmaker's Academy
Jonathan Jay Business Buying Expert
The Business Buying Strategies Podcast comes from The Dealmaker's Academy, the world's leading training on buying and selling businesses - without risking your own money!
Each week we talk to leading experts, discuss business buying strategies, offer hints and tips and cover the essential skills you will need to buy and sell businesses effectively.
Each week we talk to leading experts, discuss business buying strategies, offer hints and tips and cover the essential skills you will need to buy and sell businesses effectively.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 31, 2025 • 30min
#330 Fast-Tracking Business Acquisitions: Lessons from Success Stories
In this week’s episode of Business Buying Strategies, Jonathan shares valuable insights from Inner Circle members who have successfully purchased businesses. The episode considers the transformative power of a single acquisition, featuring examples such as Nick's printing business expansion and Jas's recent ventures. Jonathan stresses the importance of validating the business model to ensure sustainable growth. Lessons include the importance of empowering employees, maintaining quality management, and the strategic considerations of business consolidation and rebranding. It’s an episode for aspiring business buyers looking to fast-track their success while minimising risks. Key moments 01:05 Inner Circle Success Stories 01:44 The Power of One Acquisition 03:35 Jas's Transformative Acquisition Journey 06:25 Validating the Business Model 15:57 The Importance of Training and Empowering Employees 20:26 Effective Day-to-Day Management 25:57 Consolidation vs. Independence in Acquisitions ** Looking for a great acquisition lawyer in the UK? Use mine! ** If you are looking for a lawyer in the UK to help you get the deal over the line, then use my own lawyer, John Andrews. You can phone his office at (0345) 2412494 or email him at johnandrews.deallawyer@jmw.co.uk. Ready to get started? Here’s how you can start your business buying journey… Download our free Business Buying Toolkit https://dealmakers.co.uk/business-buying-toolkit Join our Business Acquisition FastTrack programme https://www.dealmakers.co.uk/fast Already bought a business? if you've already bought a business, you should be part of my Inner Circle group where we discuss raising capital, integration management, and exiting. Email Maria on hello@thedealmakersacademy.com for more information.

Jul 17, 2025 • 32min
#329 Insights from Seasoned Entrepreneurs: The Inner Circle Discussion Panel
In this week's episode of Business Buying Strategies, we are treated to a special Q&A session from the annual Marbella retreat featuring a panel of seasoned members from Jonathan's inner circle group. These accomplished entrepreneurs, who have collectively acquired dozens of businesses, discuss their experiences and share invaluable tips on acquiring businesses with minimal capital outlay. The panellists, including Hari, Simon, Tim, Jon, and Ben, dive deep into topics such as the importance of getting started, whether to take a targeted or scattergun approach, managing acquisitions without creating a 'job' for oneself, and the key factors in post-acquisition success. Additionally, they candidly share lessons learned from their own business failures and discuss strategic exits. The episode offers rich, firsthand insights, practical advice for aspiring deal-makers, and underscores the importance of learning from those who have successfully navigated the business acquisition landscape. Key moments 00:42 Panel Discussion Introduction 01:11 Hari's Business Journey 01:58 Simon's Acquisition Experience 02:35 Tim's Business Ventures 02:57 Jon's Acquisition Success 03:24 Ben's First Acquisition 04:06 Audience Q&A: Getting Started 06:51 Audience Q&A: Targeted vs. Scattergun Approach 09:18 Audience Q&A: Selecting the Right Business 11:24 Audience Q&A: Post-Acquisition Decisions 14:02 Audience Q&A: Increasing Deal Flow 16:56 Audience Q&A: Personal Growth and Mindset 22:11 Audience Q&A: Handling Failures 25:47 Audience Q&A: Using PR for Deal Flow 28:04 Audience Q&A: Exiting Strategies 31:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ** Looking for a great acquisition lawyer in the UK? Use mine! ** If you are looking for a lawyer in the UK to help you get the deal over the line, then use my own lawyer, John Andrews. You can phone his office at (0345) 2412494 or email him at johnandrews.deallawyer@jmw.co.uk. Ready to get started? Here’s how you can start your business buying journey… Download our free Business Buying Toolkit https://dealmakers.co.uk/business-buying-toolkit Join our Business Acquisition FastTrack programme https://www.dealmakers.co.uk/fast Already bought a business? if you've already bought a business, you should be part of my Inner Circle group where we discuss raising capital, integration management, and exiting. Email Maria on hello@thedealmakersacademy.com for more information.

Jul 2, 2025 • 24min
#328 Tax efficient strategies for business owners
Insights from an Expert Accountant In this episode of Business Buying Strategies, Jonathan introduces Jeff, an accountant he has worked with for nearly 13 years. Jeff shares invaluable tax-efficient strategies to help business owners maximise their savings and minimise tax liabilities. Key topics discussed include the benefits of family investment companies, approaches for handling inheritance tax, rewarding key employees using partnerships, using service companies owned by family members, and leveraging pensions for tax benefits. Jeff explains how to structure deals in a way that optimises financial outcomes without risking personal cash, providing practical insights for business owners aiming for smarter financial management. Key moments 00:47 Meet Jeff: The Go-To Accountant 01:27 Tax-Efficient Money Extraction 01:58 Family Investment Companies Explained 04:18 Inheritance Tax Strategies 07:02 Incentivising Key Employees 10:02 Using Service Companies for Tax Efficiency 13:46 Pension Planning Insights 17:31 Ensuring Compliance and Control 23:00 Conclusion and Resources ** Looking for a great acquisition lawyer in the UK? Use mine! ** If you are looking for a lawyer in the UK to help you get the deal over the line, then use my own lawyer, John Andrews. You can phone his office at (0345) 2412494 or email him at johnandrews.deallawyer@jmw.co.uk. Ready to get started? Here’s how you can start your business buying journey… Download our free Business Buying Toolkit https://dealmakers.co.uk/business-buying-toolkit Join our Business Acquisition FastTrack programme https://www.dealmakers.co.uk/fast Already bought a business? if you've already bought a business, you should be part of my Inner Circle group where we discuss raising capital, integration management, and exiting. Email Maria on hello@thedealmakersacademy.com for more information.

Jun 19, 2025 • 41min
#327 Masterclass on Financial Due Diligence
Johan Gory, managing director of OnPoint Accounting, shares his expertise in financial due diligence in this insightful discussion. He highlights the pitfalls buyers face that lead to overpaying and introduces the 'source of funds' technique to unearth a business's true financial health. Johan explains the significance of goodwill, how to navigate challenges when acquiring distressed businesses, and the complexities of director's loans in valuations. His practical advice is essential for anyone looking to make smart investments without risking their cash.

Jun 5, 2025 • 27min
#326 Zero to Multi-Million: John's Business Acquisition Masterclass
In this episode of Business Buying Strategies, Jonathan talks with John, a long-time acquaintance and experienced professional in mergers and acquisitions. John shares his journey of acquiring six businesses with a combined annual revenue of 6 million pounds, detailing the various strategies and tactics he employed, including using the cash reserves of the acquired businesses to fund their purchases. He emphasises the importance of accountability, transparency, and understanding the financial aspects of a business to ensure successful acquisitions. John also highlights the value of a deal fee and the benefits of deferring most of the consideration payments. Key moments 00:49 Meet John Hood: A Successful Business Buyer 02:36 John's Journey: From Consultancy to Business Ownership 03:08 The Importance of Accountability in Business 04:23 Exploring John's Business Ventures 06:00 Using Business Assets to Fund Acquisitions 09:41 Negotiation Tactics and Strategies 12:20 Case Studies: Successful Business Acquisitions 19:49 The Deal Fee: Paying Yourself First 21:47 Consolidation and Future Plans 24:42 Final Thoughts and Advice ** Looking for a great acquisition lawyer in the UK? Use mine! ** If you are looking for a lawyer in the UK to help you get the deal over the line, then use my own lawyer, John Andrews. You can phone his office at (0345) 2412494 or email him at johnandrews.deallawyer@jmw.co.uk. Ready to get started? Here’s how you can start your business buying journey… Download our free Business Buying Toolkit https://dealmakers.co.uk/business-buying-toolkit Join our Business Acquisition FastTrack programme https://www.dealmakers.co.uk/fast Already bought a business? if you've already bought a business, you should be part of my Inner Circle group where we discuss raising capital, integration management, and exiting. Email Maria on hello@thedealmakersacademy.com for more information.

May 22, 2025 • 25min
#325 Mastering Personal Branding and Negotiation in Business Acquisitions
In this special edition of Business Buying Strategies, Jonathan Jay speaks live from the Deal Makers Retreat in Marbella, Spain, talking about the importance of personal branding when negotiating business deals. He explains how to present yourself to business owners, emphasising the significance of the first impression and maintaining credibility throughout the negotiation process. Jonathan shares practical tips and anecdotes, underlining that knowing the buying process thoroughly and having clarity of intent are crucial for success. Listeners are encouraged to adopt a calm, professional demeanour, control the conversation, and remain curious. The session provides actionable advice on how to address common challenges faced by new business buyers and highlights the importance of being likeable and confident. Key moments 00:00 Welcome to the Deal Makers Retreat 00:49 The Importance of Personal Branding 01:17 First Impressions Matter 05:09 Building Confidence in Deal-Making 09:29 Establishing Credibility 12:33 Effective Communication Strategies 17:21 Handling Objections and Questions 23:16 Turning the Conversation to the Business 23:41 Overcoming Self-Doubt ** Looking for a great acquisition lawyer in the UK? Use mine! ** If you are looking for a lawyer in the UK to help you get the deal over the line, then use my own lawyer, John Andrews. You can phone his office at (0345) 2412494 or email him at johnandrews.deallawyer@jmw.co.uk. Ready to get started? Here’s how you can start your business buying journey… Download our free Business Buying Toolkit https://dealmakers.co.uk/business-buying-toolkit Join our Business Acquisition FastTrack programme https://www.dealmakers.co.uk/fast Already bought a business? if you've already bought a business, you should be part of my Inner Circle group where we discuss raising capital, integration management, and exiting. Email Maria on hello@thedealmakersacademy.com for more information.

May 8, 2025 • 33min
#324 David's Journey From SME to Multi-Million Pound Buy-and-Build Success:
In this week's episode of Business Buying Strategies, Jonathan interviews David, a successful entrepreneur who shares his incredible journey of transforming a small domiciliary care business into a £20 million revenue enterprise over the course of four years through an aggressive buy-and-build strategy. David details his early days, the moment of insight that led to his first acquisition, and how he managed to acquire businesses with little to no upfront cash. He also emphasises the importance of having a strong management team, discusses integration challenges, and provides insights into acquiring distressed companies. Additionally, David talks about his recent exit, future plans, and offers valuable advice to those looking to grow through acquisitions. Key moments 00:00 Introduction to Business Buying Strategies 01:21 David's Background and Early Business Ventures 03:17 First Acquisition and Growth Realization 05:53 Mastermind Course and Rapid Expansion 07:35 Building a Strong Management Team 11:31 Challenges and Strategies in Acquisitions 16:25 Successful Exit and Future Plans 20:26 Q&A Session with David ** Looking for a great acquisition lawyer in the UK? Use mine! ** If you are looking for a lawyer in the UK to help you get the deal over the line, then use my own lawyer, John Andrews. You can phone his office at (0345) 2412494 or email him at johnandrews.deallawyer@jmw.co.uk. Ready to get started? Here’s how you can start your business buying journey… Download our free Business Buying Toolkit https://dealmakers.co.uk/business-buying-toolkit Join our Business Acquisition FastTrack programme https://www.dealmakers.co.uk/fast Already bought a business? if you've already bought a business, you should be part of my Inner Circle group where we discuss raising capital, integration management, and exiting. Email Maria on hello@thedealmakersacademy.com for more information.

Apr 23, 2025 • 38min
#323 Rags to Riches: Richard Farleigh's Journey and Business Insights
In this week's episode of Business Buying Strategies, Jonathan provides an exclusive glimpse into one of his inner circle meetings featuring guest speaker Richard Farleigh, the Australian investor known from series 3 and 4 of Dragons' Den. Richard shares his incredible life story, growing up in the care system, overcoming adversity, and eventually achieving success in investment banking and business. The episode includes candid insights and engaging stories about Richard's experiences on Dragons' Den, his investment philosophies, and the remarkable transformations of his ventures, including the rise of Levi Roots' Reggae Reggae Sauce. Key moments 01:00 Meet Richard Farleigh: From Dragons' Den to Investor 02:01 Richard Farleigh's Early Life and Challenges 04:24 The Turning Point: Chess and Education 06:37 Investment Banking and Early Success 07:20 Adventures in Small Business Investing 08:33 Experiences on Dragons' Den 15:19 The One That Got Away: Trunky 17:13 Home House: A Unique Private Member's Club 20:49 Business Theory and Unique Selling Points 21:25 Challenges of Promoting Home House 22:29 The Role of Luck in Business Success 22:55 Madonna's Visit and Home House's Turning Point 23:17 Discovery Costs and Financial Struggles 24:56 Selling Home House and Market Liquidity 25:18 Starting a Tennis Racket Company 26:16 Lessons from a Failed Business Venture 30:29 Infinite Startups and Business Execution 32:21 Levi Roots and the Reggae Reggae Sauce Pitch ** Looking for a great acquisition lawyer in the UK? Use mine! ** If you are looking for a lawyer in the UK to help you get the deal over the line, then use my own lawyer, John Andrews. You can phone his office at (0345) 2412494 or email him at johnandrews.deallawyer@jmw.co.uk. Ready to get started? Here’s how you can start your business buying journey… Download our free Business Buying Toolkit https://dealmakers.co.uk/business-buying-toolkit Join our Business Acquisition FastTrack programme https://www.dealmakers.co.uk/fast Already bought a business? if you've already bought a business, you should be part of my Inner Circle group where we discuss raising capital, integration management, and exiting. Email Maria on hello@thedealmakersacademy.com for more information.

Apr 10, 2025 • 26min
#322 Negotiation and Deal Structuring with Martin
Martin Lightbound, part of the training team at Dealmakers and an expert in deal structuring and negotiation, shares his inspiring journey from skepticism to success in business acquisitions. He advises on the importance of quick actions and customized deal structures. Martin highlights effective negotiation tactics, stressing the need to understand seller motivations for a mutually beneficial dialogue. With real-life stories, he emphasizes trust-building and clear communication as vital components of successful negotiations.

Mar 27, 2025 • 24min
Business Acquisitions: Insights from a Serial Entrepreneur
An entrepreneur shares his journey of acquiring seven businesses, highlighting the intricate process of integration. He discusses the challenges of retaining key personnel and merging diverse company cultures. The importance of relationship management and structured transitions emerges as vital for success. Listeners gain insights into the financial and operational aspects of acquisitions. Additionally, the entrepreneur emphasizes the invaluable support from a collaborative network that aids in navigating the complexities of business buying.