Watch Here: https://youtu.be/Q2QTYAN7JuoAbout the Guest: Jonathan Mast isn’t your typical AI guru. At 55, with a Gandalf-like beard and 20 years in digital marketing, he’s positioned himself as the “voice of reason” in a landscape full of overhype and under-delivery. His company, White Beard Strategies, teaches business owners how to use AI without losing their minds—or their margins. Mast’s approach blends deep industry experience with a no-nonsense communication style. He’s not selling pipe dreams; he’s offering a toolkit.Summary: In this refreshingly candid episode of the How2Exit Podcast, Ron Skelton flips the usual script. Instead of diving into how to buy or sell companies, he sits down with Jonathan Mast—founder of White Beard Strategies and self-declared AI pragmatist—to tackle a more pressing question: Now that you've bought a business, how do you scale it with AI? With a long white beard and a sharper edge on reality than most AI evangelists or fearmongers, Mast offers a grounded, practical view of how artificial intelligence is changing the game for business owners. From cutting costs without cutting quality, to using AI as a "force multiplier" for human creativity, the conversation strips away the hype and lays down a roadmap that business buyers and owners can actually use.Key Takeaways:AI is an “Easier Button,” Not an Easy Button: Mast cautions that AI won’t magically solve all your problems—but it will streamline, accelerate, and amplify your existing business processes if used right.Prompt Engineering is Just Delegation 2.0: The most effective prompts treat AI like a new hire—tell it what role it’s playing, what task you need, what the output should look like, and give it context. Then ask, “Do you have any questions?”AI Won’t Replace Humans—But Humans Who Use AI Will Replace Those Who Don’t: The real risk isn’t AI taking your job—it’s your competitor using AI better than you and outpacing your entire operation.Agents Are the Next Frontier: Current tools still need your input, but AI agents—autonomous task-doers with goals instead of prompts—are coming. These could revolutionize business ops by handling repetitive, logic-based tasks with little oversight.AI Is a Skill Multiplier: A mediocre copywriter becomes competent with AI. A great copywriter becomes world-class. AI doesn’t level the playing field—it widens the gap between skilled and unskilled.Bias Is Inevitable—Just Like in Humans: Every AI model reflects the biases of its creators. That doesn’t invalidate its usefulness, but it does mean you need to be vigilant about aligning its output with your brand’s tone and truth.Business Intelligence on Steroids: Jonathan envisions a near future where agents will analyze data from every platform—Google Analytics, YouTube, LinkedIn—and proactively suggest growth strategies without human prompting.Start Small, Start Now: You don’t need to be an engineer or visionary to benefit. Begin with basic tasks like drafting emails, summarizing reports, or analyzing transactions—and build from there.--------------------------------------------------Contact Jonathan onLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanjmast/Website: http://whitebeardstrategies.com/--------------------------------------------------💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.comDon't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ONnhwaKSTPFt2nOxKoXXQ?sub_confirmation=1𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬...?▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬👍 Like the video (it helps a ton!)💬 Comment below to share your opinion!🔗 Share the video with anyone you think might help :) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬📱Stay Tuned On Our Social Media :» Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronskelton/» Twitter - https://twitter.com/ronaldskelton» Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/How2Exit» Newsletter - http://deeper.how2exit.com/🎬SUGGESTED VIDEOSDon't forget to watch 📽 Our other videos. Please check them out : ▶️E135: Sam Rosati On His Journey From Being A Lawyer To Becoming An Entrepreneur In The ETA Space - https://youtu.be/D2qJOidptRA▶️E100: CEO Of Flippa Blake Hutchison Discusses Innovations In Buying And Selling Digital Assets - https://youtu.be/R1D5guQU9Z0#How2Exit # # 💖Thanks for watching! 💖Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/how2exit-buy-don-t-build-m-a-of-small-businesses--4859429/support.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/L90nZyyR1qsAbout the Guest: Ashish Gupta is the founder of Scale Up Exec, a firm specializing in fractional COO services for growing businesses. With a background in tech startups, corporate leadership at Apple, and turnaround management in the e-commerce space, Gupta has a proven track record of scaling companies and preparing them for exits. His approach blends operational efficiency, strategic growth, and leadership coaching to help founders achieve their business goals.Summary: In this episode of the How2Exit Podcast, host Ronald Skelton sits down with Ashish Gupta, founder of Scale Up Exec, a fractional COO firm that helps small and mid-sized businesses scale, streamline operations, and prepare for exits. Gupta’s experience spans from founding a wireless startup acquired by Qualcomm to managing billion-dollar budgets at Apple, to turning around distressed e-commerce businesses and advising companies on high-impact growth strategies. The conversation dives deep into the role of a COO, how founders can recognize when they need operational support, and what it takes to transition from a hands-on entrepreneur to an owner ready for an exit.This episode is a must-listen for business owners struggling with growth plateaus, operational inefficiencies, or founder burnout. Gupta provides an eye-opening perspective on how businesses should think about leadership transitions, succession planning, and the strategic use of fractional executives to achieve scalable success.Key Takeaways:The Invisible COO Role in Small Businesses – Even if a company doesn’t have a formal COO, someone is always filling the operational leadership role, whether it’s the founder or an informal manager.Why Founders Get Stuck – Most entrepreneurs are either visionaries or execution-focused, but rarely both. Without a strong operations leader, founders can get caught in a cycle of inefficiency, distraction, and burnout.Recognizing Exit Readiness – Not all business exits are the same. Some founders just want to step back from day-to-day operations, while others need a full buyout. Knowing the difference is crucial for structuring the right transition.Strategic vs. Financial Buyers – A company’s value depends on who the buyer is. Strategic buyers may care more about market share or IP, while private equity and individual buyers are EBITDA-focused. The key is optimizing the right metrics.Boredom is a Business Killer – Many founders unconsciously sabotage their businesses because they get bored after a few years. This often leads to side projects, disengagement, or operational neglect.Fractional COOs as a Scalable Solution – Many companies under $10 million in revenue can’t justify a full-time COO, but a fractional executive can provide high-level leadership and operational improvements without the full-time cost.The Power of Small Changes – Business turnarounds don’t always require sweeping changes. Gupta advocates for a step-by-step approach to transition founders out of operations, proving that small wins build trust and momentum.AI’s Emerging Role in Operations – While AI is improving efficiency in operational management, it still lacks the human touch necessary to navigate company culture, team motivation, and complex decision-making.--------------------------------------------------Contact Ashish onLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashish-gup/Website: https://scaleupexec.com/--------------------------------------------------💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.comDon't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ONnhwaKSTPFt2nOxKoXXQ?sub_confirmation=1𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬...?▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬👍 Like the video (it helps a ton!)💬 Comment below to share your opinion!🔗 Share the video with anyone you think might help :) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬📱Stay Tuned On Our Social Media :» Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronskelton/» Twitter - https://twitter.com/ronaldskelton» Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/How2Exit» Newsletter - http://deeper.how2exit.com/🎬SUGGESTED VIDEOSDon't forget to watch 📽 Our other videos. Please check them out :▶️Previous Episode: E273: Are You Making This Mistake? – Why 80% of Small Businesses NEVER Sell - https://youtu.be/2Q11T0Dnvu4▶️E135: Sam Rosati On His Journey From Being A Lawyer To Becoming An Entrepreneur In The ETA Space - https://youtu.be/D2qJOidptRA▶️E100: CEO Of Flippa Blake Hutchison Discusses Innovations In Buying And Selling Digital Assets - https://youtu.be/R1D5guQU9Z0 #How2Exit # # 💖Thanks for watching! 💖Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/how2exit-buy-don-t-build-m-a-of-small-businesses--4859429/support.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/2Q11T0Dnvu4About the Guest: Mike Finger is the founder of Exit Oasis, a platform dedicated to helping small business owners prepare for successful exits. A former business owner himself, he learned the hard way that not every business is sellable. After a wake-up call from brokers who told him his company wasn’t worth buying, he spent years transforming it into a sellable asset. Today, he coaches owners on how to create businesses that are both profitable and sellable, whether they want to exit or simply work less.Summary: Most small business owners believe they’ll sell their business whenever they’re ready. The harsh reality? Most businesses don’t sell. In this eye-opening episode, Mike Finger, founder of Exit Oasis, sits down with Ron Skelton to expose the myths around small business exits. With personal experience transitioning from burned-out owner to successful seller, Mike breaks down the three fundamental questions every owner must answer to create a sellable business. This conversation is a wake-up call for entrepreneurs who assume their business is ready for sale—when in reality, it may not be sellable at all.Key Takeaways:Most businesses never sell – The industry loves success stories, but the real numbers show that most owners fail to transition their businesses.Sellability starts long before you decide to sell – Owners should focus on making their businesses ownable first. If you can step away without the business collapsing, it’s far more attractive to buyers.Three critical questions determine sellability – Does your business generate desirable results? Can a buyer duplicate those results? Can you document those results?Tax strategies can sabotage sellability – Owners who “minimize” profits for tax purposes are also minimizing the value buyers see in their business.Buyers want proof, not promises – Handshake deals and back-of-the-napkin accounting don’t inspire confidence. If it’s not on your tax return, it doesn’t exist to a buyer.Cash-heavy businesses raise red flags – Many owners say, “a lot of cash walks in the door.” Buyers hear: “I don’t report my real income.” If you want top dollar, run a clean operation.You can’t replace decades of knowledge overnight – Many buyers overestimate their ability to replace an owner who has spent years mastering their business. Experience matters.Start preparing now, not when you’re burned out – Most owners wait too long to think about an exit, and by the time they’re desperate to sell, they’ve already devalued their business.--------------------------------------------------Contact Mike onLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-finger/Website: https://exitoasis.com/--------------------------------------------------💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.comDon't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ONnhwaKSTPFt2nOxKoXXQ?sub_confirmation=1𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬...?▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬👍 Like the video (it helps a ton!)💬 Comment below to share your opinion!🔗 Share the video with anyone you think might help :) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬📱Stay Tuned On Our Social Media :» Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronskelton/» Twitter - https://twitter.com/ronaldskelton» Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/How2Exit» Newsletter - http://deeper.how2exit.com/🎬SUGGESTED VIDEOSDon't forget to watch 📽 Our other videos. Please check them out :▶️Previous Episode: E272: How to Buy a Business with Almost No Money: SBA Loan Strategies & Franchise Goldmines - https://youtu.be/d01ccqcb1lY▶️E135: Sam Rosati On His Journey From Being A Lawyer To Becoming An Entrepreneur In The ETA Space - https://youtu.be/D2qJOidptRA▶️E100: CEO Of Flippa Blake Hutchison Discusses Innovations In Buying And Selling Digital Assets - https://youtu.be/R1D5guQU9Z0#How2Exit # # 💖Thanks for watching! 💖Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/how2exit-buy-don-t-build-m-a-of-small-businesses--4859429/support.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/nvOnJ02n8KAAbout the Guest: Beau Eckstein is a business coach and expert in SBA lending, business acquisitions, and franchising. With a background in real estate and finance, he now specializes in helping aspiring entrepreneurs secure funding and find the right business or franchise to acquire. His experience includes flipping houses, securing SBA loans for clients, and even starring in an HGTV house-flipping show. His latest project is his book Paycheck to Freedom, co-authored with Tom Wheelwright, aimed at guiding people from employment to business ownership.Summary: This episode of How2Exit features Beau Eckstein, a business coach with deep expertise in SBA lending, real estate, and business acquisitions. His journey from struggling student to real estate investor, then into SBA lending and franchise brokering, highlights the resilience and adaptability needed for success in business. The conversation dives into financing strategies, franchise opportunities, and the critical role of business ownership in wealth creation, with Eckstein sharing valuable insights on how entrepreneurs can leverage SBA loans and other funding methods to achieve financial freedom.Key Takeaways:From Failure to Success – Eckstein’s early struggles in real estate and financial collapse in 2008 forced him to reinvent himself, leading to his expertise in SBA financing and business ownership.SBA Lending as a Wealth-Building Tool – SBA loans, especially the 7(a) and 504 programs, provide pathways for entrepreneurs to finance businesses with as little as 10% down.Franchise vs. Independent Business – While some prefer acquiring independent businesses, franchises offer proven systems and structured support that can accelerate success.The Myth of Passive Income in Real Estate – Owning rental properties isn’t always the cash flow generator people assume; business ownership often yields more predictable profits.Recurring Revenue Models Win – Businesses like pest control, restoration, and commercial painting franchises generate recurring revenue, making them attractive investment choices.Private Equity in Franchising – PE-backed franchises can be a red flag for some buyers, as corporate strategies may prioritize investor returns over franchisee success.SBA Loan Collateral Requirements Can Be Tricky – Borrowers with significant real estate holdings may find SBA lenders requiring liens on personal assets, making alternative financing strategies worth exploring.Eckstein’s Mission: 100,000 Business Owners – His goal is to help aspiring entrepreneurs transition from employees to business owners through education, financing, and franchise opportunities.--------------------------------------------------Contact Beau onLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beaueckstein/Website: https://businessownershipcoach.com/--------------------------------------------------💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.comDon't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ONnhwaKSTPFt2nOxKoXXQ?sub_confirmation=1𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬...?▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬👍 Like the video (it helps a ton!)💬 Comment below to share your opinion!🔗 Share the video with anyone you think might help :) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬📱Stay Tuned On Our Social Media :» Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronskelton/» Twitter - https://twitter.com/ronaldskelton» Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/How2Exit» Newsletter - http://deeper.how2exit.com/🎬SUGGESTED VIDEOSDon't forget to watch 📽 Our other videos. Please check them out :▶️Previous Episode: E271: How This Dealmaker Closes a Business Acquisition Every Week—WITHOUT Using His Own Money! - https://youtu.be/31r3dCWdUtA▶️E135: Sam Rosati On His Journey From Being A Lawyer To Becoming An Entrepreneur In The ETA Space - https://youtu.be/D2qJOidptRA▶️E100: CEO Of Flippa Blake Hutchison Discusses Innovations In Buying And Selling Digital Assets - https://youtu.be/R1D5guQU9Z0#How2Exit # # 💖Thanks for watching! 💖Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/how2exit-buy-don-t-build-m-a-of-small-businesses--4859429/support.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/31r3dCWdUtAAbout the Guest: Rob Richmond is a dealmaker, strategic advisor, and founder of Synergy Groups. With decades of experience in technology, business acquisitions, and rollups, Richmond has developed a reputation for structuring creative and sustainable deals. His ability to optimize businesses before acquisition, leverage vendor financing, and create high-value group exits has positioned him as a thought leader in the space.Summary: In this episode of the How2Exit podcast, host Ronald Skelton sits down with Rob Richmond, a seasoned dealmaker and founder of Synergy Groups. Richmond shares his experience in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), detailing his innovative strategies for structuring deals, including vendor financing, virtual rollups, and work-in-buyout (WIBO) models. With a track record of completing a deal nearly every week, Richmond offers valuable insights into how business buyers can creatively structure acquisitions, avoid common pitfalls, and maximize value. The conversation also delves into the psychology of sellers, the importance of profiling employees, and how to build scalable business groups.Key Takeaways:Vendor Financing as a Deal-Making Tool – Richmond explains how structuring deals with seller financing, instead of traditional bank loans, helps align interests and often results in better terms for both buyers and sellers.Work-in-Buyout (WIBO) Strategy – He outlines how entering a business as an advisor or operator before a formal acquisition can lead to stronger deals, minimizing risk and increasing value for all parties.The Power of Virtual Rollups – Richmond discusses his success with virtual rollups, where companies in similar industries collaborate, scale, and eventually exit together for higher valuations.The Importance of Value Creation – Instead of simply acquiring businesses, Richmond emphasizes improving them through strategic changes, sales optimization, and operational efficiency.Overcoming Seller Expectations – Many business owners overvalue their companies. Richmond’s strategy is to shift the conversation from an unrealistic sales price to the actual post-sale cash in the seller’s bank account.Employee Profiling for Growth – By analyzing staff skill sets, businesses can reposition employees for better performance without the need for external hiring.The Right Business Mindset Matters – Smaller business owners often struggle with valuations, unrealistic goodwill expectations, and an inability to scale, while those with $10M+ in revenue tend to be more pragmatic and open to creative deal structures.The Fastest Way to Exit? Management Buyouts. – Richmond highlights management buyouts (MBOs) as one of the quickest and most effective ways for business owners to transition out while ensuring business continuity.--------------------------------------------------Contact Rob onLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-richmond/Website: https://morewaysgroup.com/--------------------------------------------------💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.comDon't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ONnhwaKSTPFt2nOxKoXXQ?sub_confirmation=1𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬...?▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬👍 Like the video (it helps a ton!)💬 Comment below to share your opinion!🔗 Share the video with anyone you think might help :) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬📱Stay Tuned On Our Social Media :» Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronskelton/» Twitter - https://twitter.com/ronaldskelton» Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/How2Exit» Newsletter - http://deeper.how2exit.com/🎬SUGGESTED VIDEOSDon't forget to watch 📽 Our other videos. Please check them out :▶️Previous Episode: E270: From Landscaping Hustle to Tech Empire: Bryan Clayton’s $90M GreenPal Revolution - https://youtu.be/e3HHrrIc4Hc▶️E135: Sam Rosati On His Journey From Being A Lawyer To Becoming An Entrepreneur In The ETA Space - https://youtu.be/D2qJOidptRA▶️E100: CEO Of Flippa Blake Hutchison Discusses Innovations In Buying And Selling Digital Assets - https://youtu.be/R1D5guQU9Z0#How2Exit # # 💖Thanks for watching! 💖Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/how2exit-buy-don-t-build-m-a-of-small-businesses--4859429/support.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/e3HHrrIc4HcAbout the Guest: Bryan Clayton is the CEO and co-founder of GreenPal, a tech platform connecting homeowners with lawn care professionals. Before launching GreenPal, Clayton built and sold a successful landscaping business with over 150 employees. He’s an advocate for using technology to modernize service-based businesses and believes AI will dramatically reshape industries in the coming years.Summary: In this episode of How2Exit, host Ronald Skelton sits down with Bryan Clayton, CEO and co-founder of GreenPal, a platform often dubbed the "Uber for lawn care." Clayton shares his entrepreneurial journey, from a childhood forced into mowing lawns by his military father to scaling and selling a multimillion-dollar landscaping company. He discusses the challenges of selling a business, the emotional void that follows an exit, and how he transitioned into the tech space to launch GreenPal. The conversation dives deep into automation, AI’s impact on business, and how small service-based companies can leverage technology to scale efficiently.Key Takeaways: Forced Entrepreneurship Sparks Innovation: Clayton’s first business began out of necessity when his father made him mow lawns as a teenager. That small hustle turned into a multimillion-dollar landscaping business.Scaling a Service Business is a Systematic Process: Building a large-scale landscaping company required Clayton to develop efficient processes, training programs, and a system for hiring and retaining workers.Selling a Business Takes Preparation: It took Clayton two years—one to structure the business properly and another to find a buyer—to successfully sell his landscaping company.The Emotional Impact of an Exit is Real: Clayton struggled with an identity crisis after selling his business, which eventually pushed him to start GreenPal.AI and Automation Are Changing Business Operations: The discussion explores how AI is reshaping everything from customer acquisition to software development, making it easier to run lean and profitable companies.Technology is Now Essential for Service Businesses: Small business owners who fail to adopt tech tools are operating as if it’s still the 1990s, missing opportunities to increase efficiency and profitability.GreenPal Provides a Business-in-a-Box for Lawn Care Providers: The platform handles customer acquisition, scheduling, invoicing, and even upselling additional services for lawn care professionals.Future-Proofing Means Staying Tech-Savvy: Clayton warns that service providers who resist technology will fall behind as AI and automation continue to accelerate business capabilities.--------------------------------------------------Contact Bryan onLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-clayton-a96b33214/Website: https://www.yourgreenpal.com/--------------------------------------------------💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.comDon't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ONnhwaKSTPFt2nOxKoXXQ?sub_confirmation=1𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬...?▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬👍 Like the video (it helps a ton!)💬 Comment below to share your opinion!🔗 Share the video with anyone you think might help :) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬📱Stay Tuned On Our Social Media :» Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronskelton/» Twitter - https://twitter.com/ronaldskelton» Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/How2Exit» Newsletter - http://deeper.how2exit.com/🎬SUGGESTED VIDEOSDon't forget to watch 📽 Our other videos. Please check them out :▶️Previous Episode: E269: How to Sell Your Business for Top Dollar – Secrets from an Acquisition Expert - https://youtu.be/XLZjRoLivJw▶️E135: Sam Rosati On His Journey From Being A Lawyer To Becoming An Entrepreneur In The ETA Space - https://youtu.be/D2qJOidptRA▶️E100: CEO Of Flippa Blake Hutchison Discusses Innovations In Buying And Selling Digital Assets - https://youtu.be/R1D5guQU9Z0#How2Exit # # 💖Thanks for watching! 💖Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/how2exit-buy-don-t-build-m-a-of-small-businesses--4859429/support.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/XLZjRoLivJwAbout the Guest: Dolores Hirschmann is the founder of Masters in Clarity, a business strategist, speaker coach, and acquisition entrepreneur. With a background in marketing and communication, she helps business owners clarify their message to scale and exit successfully. She previously ran one of the largest TEDx events on the East Coast and co-founded a company that she later sold to Grant Cardone. As an active buyer of small professional services businesses, she works with founders to structure successful exits while preserving their companies’ legacy.Summary: This episode of How2Exit dives into the power of communication and marketing in business sales and acquisitions. Guest Dolores Hirschmann, founder of Masters in Clarity, shares her expertise on crafting clear messaging that attracts the right buyers, partners, and investors. She breaks down the importance of strategic storytelling, leveraging public speaking, and using platforms like podcasts and events to increase business visibility—crucial for both selling a business and making acquisitions. Hirschmann also shares insights from her experience running a TEDx event, selling a business to Grant Cardone, and helping entrepreneurs build their stage presence to drive business success.Key Takeaways: Marketing is the Foundation of Business Success – Without clear messaging and strategic marketing, businesses struggle to grow, scale, or exit successfully. It’s not about throwing money at ads—it’s about human-to-human connection. Public Speaking as a Business Growth Tool – Whether you're selling or buying, putting yourself on the right stages (conferences, podcasts, networking events) can position you as an authority and attract opportunities.Clarity Drives Deal Flow – Whether pitching investors or marketing a business for sale, clear communication about what you offer, who you serve, and your vision is key to getting the right people engaged.The Power of Out-of-Category Marketing – Sometimes the best opportunities come from speaking to audiences adjacent to your industry—where you stand out and capture attention.The Seven-Step Speaking Framework – Hirschmann lays out a structured way to craft a powerful talk, from grabbing attention to delivering a strong call to action.Legacy and Liquidity in Acquisitions – As a buyer and consultant, Hirschmann helps business owners structure their companies to sell while preserving their brand’s legacy.Networking is Key in M&A – Building relationships with CPAs, attorneys, and industry insiders can lead to acquisition opportunities that aren't publicly listed.Content Lives Forever – A single speaking engagement or podcast appearance can be repurposed into multiple pieces of content, creating long-term value.--------------------------------------------------Contact Dolores onLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhirschmann/Website: http://www.mastersinclarity.com/--------------------------------------------------💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.comDon't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ONnhwaKSTPFt2nOxKoXXQ?sub_confirmation=1𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬...?▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬👍 Like the video (it helps a ton!)💬 Comment below to share your opinion!🔗 Share the video with anyone you think might help :) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬📱Stay Tuned On Our Social Media :» Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronskelton/» Twitter - https://twitter.com/ronaldskelton» Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/How2Exit» Newsletter - http://deeper.how2exit.com/🎬SUGGESTED VIDEOSDon't forget to watch 📽 Our other videos. Please check them out :▶️Previous Episode: E268: Your Business Isn't Worth What You Think! (How to Fix It Before You Sell) - https://youtu.be/ZCwj--I0XU0▶️E135: Sam Rosati On His Journey From Being A Lawyer To Becoming An Entrepreneur In The ETA Space - https://youtu.be/D2qJOidptRA▶️E100: CEO Of Flippa Blake Hutchison Discusses Innovations In Buying And Selling Digital Assets - https://youtu.be/R1D5guQU9Z0#How2Exit # # 💖Thanks for watching! 💖Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/how2exit-buy-don-t-build-m-a-of-small-businesses--4859429/support.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/ZCwj--I0XU0About the Guest: Alina Rivera is a business valuation expert and the founder of Advising Puerto Rico, a firm specializing in business advisory, financial planning, and fractional CFO services. With a background in auditing, forensic valuation, and advisory work for global firms like BDO, she helps business owners understand the true worth of their companies and prepare for growth, financing, and eventual exit. Rivera is also a strong advocate for using business valuation as a proactive tool rather than just a transaction necessity.Key Takeaways: Business Valuation as a Strategic Tool – Business owners often overestimate their company’s worth. Regular valuations help align expectations and identify key value drivers.Exit Planning Should Start Now – Waiting until retirement or an emergency to prepare for an exit can result in financial disaster. A business should always be sale-ready.Puerto Rico as a Business Hub – The island offers tax incentives for companies that export services, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs, including those in tech and finance.Fractional CFOs Drive Growth – Businesses earning between $1M-$10M benefit significantly from hiring a fractional CFO to manage cash flow, forecasting, and growth strategy.Common Valuation Mistakes – Owners often base their valuation on industry hearsay or personal financial needs rather than market data and financial fundamentals.Owner Dependency Kills Business Value – A company reliant on its owner for operations, sales, and decision-making is much harder to sell and less attractive to buyers.Financial Planning & Process Documentation – Having structured financial statements, KPI tracking, and documented workflows is critical for growth and eventual sale.The Risks of Poor Succession Planning – Businesses without a succession plan risk collapse when an owner unexpectedly leaves due to illness or other circumstances.--------------------------------------------------Contact Alina onLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/triveraa/Website: https://advising.global/--------------------------------------------------💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.comDon't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ONnhwaKSTPFt2nOxKoXXQ?sub_confirmation=1𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬...?▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬👍 Like the video (it helps a ton!)💬 Comment below to share your opinion!🔗 Share the video with anyone you think might help :) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬📱Stay Tuned On Our Social Media :» Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronskelton/» Twitter - https://twitter.com/ronaldskelton» Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/How2Exit» Newsletter - http://deeper.how2exit.com/🎬SUGGESTED VIDEOSDon't forget to watch 📽 Our other videos. Please check them out :▶️Previous Episode: E267: Why Buying a Business Beats Starting One – Buy Your Way to Success! - https://youtu.be/IUebHfz3G-c▶️E135: Sam Rosati On His Journey From Being A Lawyer To Becoming An Entrepreneur In The ETA Space - https://youtu.be/D2qJOidptRA▶️E100: CEO Of Flippa Blake Hutchison Discusses Innovations In Buying And Selling Digital Assets - https://youtu.be/R1D5guQU9Z0#How2Exit # # 💖Thanks for watching! 💖Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/how2exit-buy-don-t-build-m-a-of-small-businesses--4859429/support.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/IUebHfz3G-cAbout the Guest: Sanket Bhasin is an experienced entrepreneur and the managing partner of Spring Street Capital, a New York-based software-focused search fund. He has successfully built and exited two tech businesses and is now focused on acquiring and scaling vertical software companies in the energy and healthcare sectors. His expertise in scaling businesses, combined with his strong belief in long-term ownership and AI-driven efficiencies, makes him a compelling voice in the world of software acquisitions.Key Takeaways: Entrepreneurial Roots & Early Exposure – Bhasin grew up in Australia, spending Sundays with his father searching for businesses to buy, which sparked his lifelong interest in entrepreneurship.Successful Startup Experience – He founded and exited two software companies, Smart Therapist and Communicate This, gaining firsthand experience in solving niche industry problems with technology.Why Search Funds? – Bhasin chose the search fund model because it offered a structured pathway to acquire and scale a business while benefiting from investor mentorship and long-term strategic partnerships.Search Fund vs. Traditional Acquisition – Unlike solo acquirers using SBA loans, search funds allow for investor-backed mentoring, longer search times, and a built-in support system for new CEOs.The Appeal of Vertical Software – Bhasin focuses on acquiring mission-critical software companies in the energy and healthcare sectors, as these specialized businesses have strong customer relationships and high retention rates.Long-Term Hold Strategy – Spring Street Capital isn’t built for quick flips; Bhasin emphasizes holding acquired businesses for the long haul, ensuring sustainable growth and strategic improvements.AI’s Impact on Software Businesses – While AI is making coding more efficient, Bhasin believes that human ingenuity and decision-making remain irreplaceable, especially when it comes to designing software and setting strategy.Excitement for the Future – Bhasin sees the ongoing digital transformation as a massive opportunity, where businesses leveraging AI and software-driven efficiencies will thrive.--------------------------------------------------Contact Sanket onLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanket-bhasin/Website: http://www.springstcap.com/--------------------------------------------------💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.comDon't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ONnhwaKSTPFt2nOxKoXXQ?sub_confirmation=1𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬...?▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬👍 Like the video (it helps a ton!)💬 Comment below to share your opinion!🔗 Share the video with anyone you think might help :) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬📱Stay Tuned On Our Social Media :» Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronskelton/» Twitter - https://twitter.com/ronaldskelton» Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/How2Exit» Newsletter - http://deeper.how2exit.com/🎬SUGGESTED VIDEOSDon't forget to watch 📽 Our other videos. Please check them out :▶️Previous Episode: E266: From a $5M Offer to a $70M Deal: The Hidden Secrets of Selling Your Business for Maximum Value - https://youtu.be/JhloU4oKlDg▶️E135: Sam Rosati On His Journey From Being A Lawyer To Becoming An Entrepreneur In The ETA Space - https://youtu.be/D2qJOidptRA▶️E100: CEO Of Flippa Blake Hutchison Discusses Innovations In Buying And Selling Digital Assets - https://youtu.be/R1D5guQU9Z0#How2Exit # # 💖Thanks for watching! 💖Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/how2exit-buy-don-t-build-m-a-of-small-businesses--4859429/support.

Watch Here: https://youtu.be/JhloU4oKlDgAbout the Guest: Todd Sullivan is the co-founder of ExitWise, a platform designed to help business owners maximize the value of their exits by connecting them with the best investment bankers, M&A attorneys, and advisors in their industry. A former entrepreneur with multiple exits—including deals with Microsoft and CBS—Sullivan is on a mission to level the playing field for founders and ensure they don’t leave millions on the table when selling their businesses.Key Takeaways:Unsolicited Offers Are Often Lowball Ploys – Many business owners receive unsolicited offers that seem attractive at first glance but are often far below the company’s true value. Having the right representation can dramatically shift these offers upward.Preparation Is Key – A successful exit doesn’t happen overnight. Business owners should start preparing two to three years in advance, ensuring financials, operational structures, and data rooms are in order.The Right Team Makes All the Difference – Choosing industry-specific investment bankers, M&A attorneys, and advisors can increase deal success rates from under 30% to over 85%. These experts not only help navigate the process but also significantly boost valuation.Understanding Buyer Strategies Is Critical – Buyers are often seasoned dealmakers with playbooks designed to pressure sellers into quick decisions, unrealistic timelines, and one-sided terms. Business owners must learn to control the process and not be rushed into mistakes.Avoid Letting Ego Kill a Deal – Entrepreneurs can sabotage their own exit by overestimating their company’s worth or refusing strong offers based on emotional attachment. An objective valuation and disciplined approach are essential.Earnouts and Employment Agreements Need Careful Structuring – Many entrepreneurs struggle when transitioning to employees post-sale. Structuring earnouts correctly can ensure smoother transitions and maximize financial benefits.The Exit Market Is Shifting – With private equity dry powder moving into lower middle market deals, competition for quality businesses is heating up. Those with strong financials, profitability, and growth potential will command the best multiples.Confidentiality in M&A Is Vital – Overexposing a deal by engaging too many buyers can damage business value and create unnecessary risks. A strategic, private approach to negotiations is far superior.--------------------------------------------------Contact Todd onLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddfsullivan/--------------------------------------------------💰If you’d like additional ways to support this podcast, you can become a paid subscriber here: https://how2exit.substack.com/►Visit Our Website: https://www.how2exit.com/📧For Business Inquiries: Me@4sale2sold.comDon't Forget to SUBSCRIBE to the How2Exit channel and press (🔔) to join the Notification Squad and stay updated with new uploads.✨👇🏻SUBSCRIBE HEREhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_ONnhwaKSTPFt2nOxKoXXQ?sub_confirmation=1𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬...?▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬👍 Like the video (it helps a ton!)💬 Comment below to share your opinion!🔗 Share the video with anyone you think might help :) ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬📱Stay Tuned On Our Social Media :» Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronskelton/» Twitter - https://twitter.com/ronaldskelton» Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/How2Exit» Newsletter - http://deeper.how2exit.com/🎬SUGGESTED VIDEOSDon't forget to watch 📽 Our other videos. Please check them out :▶️Previous Episode: From ‘Throwaway Kid’ to Billion-Dollar Boardroom: Sir Darren Jacklin’s Jaw-Dropping Journey - https://youtu.be/RRnPx2U1Ljs▶️E135: Sam Rosati On His Journey From Being A Lawyer To Becoming An Entrepreneur In The ETA Space - https://youtu.be/D2qJOidptRA▶️E100: CEO Of Flippa Blake Hutchison Discusses Innovations In Buying And Selling Digital Assets - https://youtu.be/R1D5guQU9Z0#How2Exit # # 💖Thanks for watching! 💖Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/how2exit-buy-don-t-build-m-a-of-small-businesses--4859429/support.