Kent Weaver, an experienced investor with a remarkable background in search funds, shares insights honed over years in the industry. He discusses what he looks for in prospective searchers, emphasizing the blend of hard and soft skills. Kent explores the dynamics of partnered versus solo searches, and how each path impacts success. He also touches on the evolving landscape of self-funded searches and how industry characteristics play a crucial role in diligence. His deep enthusiasm for collaboration with searchers shines through in this engaging conversation.

Caroline Matthews and Connor McCarthy, co-CEOs of Canyonlands Camps, share their unique journey of acquiring summer camps and outdoor programs. They discuss the challenges of balancing family life and entrepreneurship, particularly during the pandemic. The couple reflects on their investor strategy and the importance of honoring family legacies in business. They highlight the intricacies of operating seasonal businesses, building customer loyalty, and the emotional nuances involved in valuing outdoor recreation properties—all while navigating their partnership as spouses.

William Young, CEO of Aerowave Technologies, shares his journey from private equity to leading a technology solutions company. He discusses the intricate dynamics of ownership transition, especially during the challenges posed by COVID and supply chain issues. Young highlights the importance of direct customer conversations and the difficulties of hiring skilled salespeople in a technical field where he admits to having little expertise. His reflections on adapting business operations while balancing family life provide valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Sam Rosati, a former searcher now thriving as a recurring investor in self-funded searches, shares his unique journey and insights into the evolving market. He discusses strategies for building investor relationships and emphasizes the importance of early communication. Sam also reveals the key traits he seeks in effective entrepreneurs, evaluates business stability, and explores the complexities of investor relations. Tune in for an engaging discussion on navigating the opportunities and challenges in the world of self-funded acquisitions!

Betsy Harbison, CEO of Softrip, shares her unique journey in acquiring a remote vertical software company focused on multi-day tour operators. She discusses the challenges of untangling the business from its parent company and her strategic choice to avoid debt in the acquisition. Betsy reflects on the complexities of managing customer expectations while shifting from product customization to a more scalable model. Her insights on navigating investment partnerships and the evolution of female representation in the searcher community add further depth to this fascinating entrepreneurial story.

Brian Seeling, CEO of PGM Service, shares his unique journey from software engineer to acquisition entrepreneur. He discusses the contrasting paths of startups versus acquisitions, emphasizing how to evaluate business opportunities. Brian highlights the advantages of a preventative maintenance model, transforming revenues from episodic to recurring. He also delves into the challenges of leadership transitions and the importance of operational systems in driving growth and profitability. Listening to his experiences offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs in acquisition entrepreneurship.

Zach Dupree, a veteran commercial lender with expertise in small business acquisitions, shares invaluable insights on navigating the lending landscape. He discusses the 'three legs of the stool'—the business, the operator, and the investors—essential for evaluating acquisition opportunities. Zach highlights the contrast between commercial bankers and equity investors and the importance of trust in negotiations. He provides practical advice for first-time acquirers, emphasizing the nuances of SBA versus conventional loans and the evolution of search funds in recent years.

In this discussion, Jenn Braus, CEO of Systems Design West, shares her inspiring journey from process engineer to business owner. She highlights the benefits of recurring revenue in her new venture. Jenn reflects on the challenges of the acquisition process and the emotional aspects of entrepreneurship, especially as a woman in the field. The conversation also delves into customer retention strategies, adaptable service during the pandemic, and the importance of aligning personal values with business acquisitions for true job satisfaction.

In May of 2021, after a self-funded search, Nick Vandam became CEO of MCI, a telecommunications infrastructure company based in St. Paul, Minnesota. In this episode, he shares his distinct journey, including his days at West Point; competing in triathlons on the U.S. National Team; deployment in Afghanistan; work experience at a large financial services company and then at a doomed startup; followed by graduate school and employment at Raytheon, all the while inching closer and closer to entrepreneurship through acquisition. Once headed down the ETA path, a number of challenges and opportunities presented themselves to Nick, leading him to important realizations about buying and then running a small business. Tune in for insights on the accessibility of acquisition entrepreneurship, due diligence challenges, the beauty of cigar butt businesses, leadership, and so much more.

Geoff Duckworth, a successful entrepreneur known for acquiring and selling a small business, returns to share his latest ventures. He discusses the allure of traditional jobs versus entrepreneurship, offering insights from his journey. Duckworth reflects on his growth as a second-time searcher and the evolving competitive market. He highlights the unique challenges of navigating business in Vermont's small economy and emphasizes the importance of networking. Finally, he reveals a new business opportunity that has him excited about the future.