Founder's Guide Post: Recent Episodes
Armando Roman
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story. This content is intended to be informational only, not to be taken as tax or legal advice. For tax and legal advice, seek appropriate counsel.
In this special episode of the Founder's Guide Post, we bring you a front-row seat to a powerful live event focused on one of the most pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey: the exit. Hosted by journalist and PBS host Catherine Anaya, and led by Armando Roman—founder of Axiom Founders Family Office—this event was designed for founders preparing to sell their business, whether that’s in five years or five months.
Listeners will hear from Steve Johnson, a former SWAT officer turned entrepreneur who created a bullet-resistant window film and scaled his company from $500 to nearly $20 million in revenue. Steve shares raw insights into the challenges of growing fast, avoiding debt, and navigating a private equity exit—even with no formal business background. His story underscores the value of surrounding yourself with the right team before selling your business.
The episode also features an expert panel including a family office wealth advisor, investment banker, M&A attorney, CPA, tax strategist, and estate planning attorney—each offering crucial advice for first-time sellers. From understanding your company’s value, to minimizing tax exposure and structuring a meaningful legacy, this forum outlines what it takes to plan and execute a successful business exit. If you're a founder contemplating your next chapter, this episode is a must-listen.
What You’ll Learn:
-
A Successful Exit Starts Long Before You Sell. The most valuable exits don’t happen by chance—they’re the result of intentional, early planning. From assembling the right team (wealth advisor, investment banker, CPA, estate attorney) to cleaning up your financials and understanding your personal goals post-sale, the earlier you begin, the more options—and leverage—you’ll have.
-
Your Business Is Worth More with the Right Structure and Story. Buyers pay premiums for businesses with clean books, predictable cash flow, and strong leadership teams. But how you structure the sale—asset vs. equity, S-corp vs. LLC, cash vs. earnout—can dramatically affect your tax burden and long-term outcomes. Having advisors who understand these nuances can save millions.
-
Don't Leave Your Legacy to Chance. Your business exit is more than a transaction—it’s a transition for your family, your team, and your future. Whether you plan to stay involved or walk away, defining your legacy through thoughtful estate planning and charitable giving ensures your wealth and values live on long after the deal closes.
About the Scottsdale Founders Forum:
The Scottsdale Founders Forum is an exclusive, invitation-only event for founders preparing for their first business exit, designed to maximize value, safeguard your legacy, and ensure a smooth transition for your family, company, and community.
In Ep. #62 of the #FoundersGuidepost Podcast, Catherine Anaya, three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, interviews me about how Axiom Founders Family Office helps first-generation business owners protect what they’ve built and plan for what’s next. I share how we support founders through business exits, tax planning, and creating strategies that reflect their values and goals. Even if they don’t have hundreds of millions, they still face complex decisions—and that’s where we step in. At Axiom, we act as a family CFO, helping coordinate everything from legal and financial planning to charitable giving and passing wealth to the next generation. Our goal is to make sure their hard work lasts—so their legacy lives on long after the business is sold.
What You’ll Learn:
Start Planning Your Business Exit Sooner Than You Think: The best exits don’t happen by accident—they’re the result of years of preparation. A strong exit plan gives you time to increase business value, avoid tax surprises, and leave on your own terms.
Treat Your Personal Finances Like a Business: Your personal financial life deserves the same structure and strategy you bring to your company. When your advisors are aligned and your goals are clear, your financial decisions become faster and more confident.
Build a Legacy That Reflects Your Values—Not Just Your Net Worth: Wealth without direction can create confusion for the next generation. The more you involve your family in purpose-driven planning, the more likely your legacy will last beyond the money.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Armando: Armando Roman is CEO of AXIOM Founders Family Office - the Family CFO and Wealth Management firm for Founders and their families. As an entrepreneur, Armando has built and exited two businesses, a CPA firm serving closely held businesses and a niche management consulting firm. He founded the Scottsdale Founders Forum, Arizona's premier pre-exit event for founders and the Founders Guidepost podcast, a podcast dedicated to business exit and succession planning. He is a sought -after speaker and presenter. In fact, he was invited by the FBI to train 400 FBI special agents, all of whom were CPAs, to train them about their own personal financial planning. Armando has helped oversee a 1.5 billion dollar institutional investment portfolio for a major charitable organization, and, as an appointee of two bishops of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, he was responsible for prudent investment management and oversight of the Diocese's institutional investment portfolio. He helped lead the CPA profession in Arizona and nationally serving as chairman of the Arizona Society of CPAs and serving on the governing body of the nation's largest CPA association, the American Institute of CPAs. For founders seeking an experienced, trusted advisor who understands both the financial and personal aspects of wealth advisory and business transitions, Armando Roman offers an unmatched combination of expertise, integrity, and a deep commitment to family legacy. A licensed CPA over 30 years and securities licensed over 20 years, Armando received his MBA from Drexel university and undergraduate degree in accounting and finance from the University of Arizona.
Career Highlights:
- Founded and sold CPA firm focused on Arizona closely held businesses under $100M revenue.
- Founded and exited consulting firm focused on Native American tribes in Arizona.
- Founded Arizona's premier pre-exit event for Founders considering exiting, Scottsdale Founders Forum.
- Founded Arizona's first podcast focused on exit/succession/transition, Founders Guide Post podcast.
- Invited by FBI to create/present 2 hour CPE training course for 400 FBI Special Agents (all were CPAs) on Personal Financial Planning (FBI loved the course, invited Armando back two additional years).
- Appointed by two Bishops of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix to lead the Committee responsible for prudent investment management of the Institutional investment portfolio of the Diocese, 10 yrs.
- Member of committee responsible for overseeing prudent investment management of $1.5 billion Institutional investment portfolio for one of Arizona's largest charities.
- Chosen by peers to lead the CPA profession in Arizona as Chairman of the ASCPA (11,000 CPAs in AZ).
- Member of the governing body of the nation's largest professional association of CPAs (400,000 members).
- Member of the AICPA's national committee tasked with promoting Financial Literacy in the United States.
About the Guest Host: Catherine Anaya is a three-time Emmy award-winning journalist.
She is the host of Horizonte on Arizona PBS, a weekly television series discussing Arizona issues and topics of particular interest to the Hispanic community.
In 2017, the Rocky Mountain Southwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences inducted Catherine into the nationally recognized Silver Circle for more than 25 years of broadcast excellence and contribution to the community.
The former television news anchor of 25 years spent 12 of those years at CBS in Phoenix where she anchored the evening news. Prior to that, she anchored/reported at CBS in Los Angeles, NBC in Phoenix, as well as television stations in Indiana and Texas. Catherine has won numerous awards including ‘Anchor of the Year’ by the Arizona Associated Press Broadcasters Association. Her career highlights include interviewing President Obama at the White House and co-anchoring a post-presidential debate with the legendary Walter Cronkite.
When she’s not working, Catherine and her husband enjoy traveling and spending quality time with their four children.
Catherine is a University of Southern California alumna, an avid reader, a fitness enthusiast, and a three-time Boston Marathon finisher.
In Ep. #61 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I sat down with Christina Noyes, a top legal expert in franchising, to discuss what it takes to turn a successful business into a thriving franchise. We cover everything from the legal and financial steps involved in becoming a franchisor to the strategies for scaling across multiple states—and even expanding internationally. Christina breaks down the must-know details about franchise agreements, intellectual property protection, financial disclosures, and how to attract the right franchisees.
What You’ll Learn:
How to Transition from Business Owner to Franchisor: Learn the key legal, financial, and operational steps needed to turn your business into a franchise and scale it successfully.
How to Sell and Expand Your Business Without Large Capital Investment: Discover how franchising allows you to grow using franchisee investments while maintaining control and maximizing profitability.
How Private Equity Firms Are Changing the Franchise Landscape: Understand why private equity groups are now interested in smaller franchises and how this trend can create opportunities for founders looking to sell their business.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Ready to start a franchise? Still have questions? Reach out to Christina at (602)-333-5457
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest: Christina Noyes represents franchisors and franchisees in franchise, corporate, and intellectual property law, providing adept counsel at every stage of business development while proactively anticipating and resolving potential disputes to maximize profitability and growth.
Within her full-service practice, Christina conducts analyses of franchise and business opportunity laws; structures, prepares, and evaluates franchise agreements and franchise disclosure documents (FDD), handles all aspects of state franchise registrations; and drafts, files, and registers trademarks and maintains clients’ intellectual property rights. Additionally, she guides businesses and nonprofits through matters related to formation, legal opinions on formation and authority, contracts with vendors and customers, mergers and acquisitions, and certain self-insurance trust agreements.
Prior to attending law school, Christina worked as a certified public accountant at a Big Six accounting firm, gaining advantageous skills in complex financial and operational planning. She draws on this experience in her legal practice to curate optimal strategies for success, helping businesses navigate numerous, concurrent obstacles to meet specific objectives and regulatory requirements.
In Ep. #60 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, we take a fresh look at what it means to truly take control of your health. Dr. Dan Wool shares his naturopathic approach, which focuses on identifying root causes, prioritizing preventive care, and creating personalized strategies to help you feel your best.
If you’ve struggled with challenges like acid reflux/GERD, IBS, bloating, or fatigue—or been put on medications without a clear explanation or end date—this episode is for you. Dr. Wool explains how his methods address these issues and why feeling constantly tired after 40 isn’t something you should accept as normal.
This episode is packed with insights and tools to help you move beyond frustration and toward real, lasting health.
What You’ll Learn:
Learn How to Build a Foundation for Long-Term Wellness: Discover how addressing root causes, emphasizing prevention, and creating personalized strategies can lead to sustainable health improvements and overall well-being.
Understand the Limitations of Conventional Medicine and How to Overcome Them: Explore why rushed appointments and symptom-focused care often fall short, and how patient-centered, holistic approaches offer more effective and lasting solutions.
Gain Insight Into Managing Chronic Conditions for Lasting Relief: Learn how to effectively address chronic issues like acid reflux, IBS, and fatigue through tailored treatments that focus on both immediate relief and long-term health restoration.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Head to drdanwool.com to schedule your free discovery call with Dr. Dan Wool today!
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn About the Guest:
Dr. Dan Wool is a licensed naturopathic physician based in Scottsdale, Arizona, with a focus on holistic, patient-centered care. He specializes in addressing chronic health concerns such as acid reflux, IBS, bloating, and fatigue by identifying root causes and creating personalized treatment plans. Dr. Wool’s training includes extensive clinical practice, nutrition, botanical medicine, and acupuncture, which he integrates to provide a comprehensive approach to health. By prioritizing prevention and long-term wellness, he works closely with his patients to optimize their health and quality of life. With a commitment to understanding the whole person, Dr. Wool aims to provide care that is thorough, thoughtful, and tailored to each individual’s needs.
In Ep. #59 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I talk about how to protect what you’ve worked so hard to build as we face the uncertainties of 2025. With inflation, economic shifts, and evolving regulations, it’s more important than ever to take proactive steps to secure your business, your family, and your future.
I share insights on retaining your top talent, safeguarding intellectual property, and using tools like key man life insurance and buy-sell agreements to ensure continuity. I also touch on financial preparedness, from building strong banking relationships to creating contingency plans for life’s unexpected twists.
This episode is all about taking control and making sure you’re ready for whatever comes next.
What You’ll Learn:
Protecting Business Value: Safeguard your business by retaining top talent, securing intellectual property, and using tools like key man life insurance and buy-sell agreements.
Financial Preparedness: Build strong banking relationships, secure credit, and develop contingency plans to maintain stability.
Comprehensive Personal and Estate Planning: Leverage trusts, update beneficiaries, and ensure insurance coverage to protect your wealth.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
In the #58 episode of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I sat down with Wesley Robinson, an M&A attorney at Ballard Spahr, to talk about what it takes to successfully sell or transition a business.
Wesley explains why prepping 3 to 5 years out can help you avoid costly mistakes, streamline the process, and protect yourself during this once-in-a-lifetime event. From navigating due diligence to negotiating key terms like warranties, holdbacks, and payment structures, our guest shares why having a specialized M&A attorney on your team is essential.
Wesley’s insights will help you understand how to get your business sale-ready, protect yourself, and make sure you come out of this once-in-a-lifetime transaction with the best outcome possible.
What You’ll Learn:
Start Early: Wesley says business owners should work with an M&A attorney 3-5 years before selling to get their finances, legal documents, and business structure in order. This makes the sale smoother and avoids costly mistakes.
Be Ready for Due Diligence: The due diligence process can be stressful. An M&A attorney helps protect the seller by handling key terms like risks, warranties, and holdbacks to keep things fair and secure after the sale.
Everything Is Negotiable: Deals can be customized to fit what the seller wants, whether it’s cash upfront, payments over time, or staying involved in the business. An experienced attorney makes sure the deal works in the seller’s favor.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Reach out to Wesley at robinsonw@ballardspahr.com Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest: Wesley advises and represents public and private clients on their mergers, acquisitions, securities, corporate governance and emerging growth matters. Wesley has experience drafting definitive purchase agreements, ancillary agreements, resolutions and disclosure schedules, and performing due diligence in connection with mergers and acquisitions and financing transactions. He assists with corporate securities matters, including quarterly and annual filings, proxy statements, current report filings, and registration statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
In Ep. #57 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I had the chance to chat with Josh Weiss, the founder of 10 to 1 Public Relations. Together, we unpacked the impact of PR in crafting strong reputations, achieving steady growth, and setting businesses up for successful transitions.
What You’ll Learn:
Crafting Strong Reputations: PR builds trust and credibility through consistent storytelling, positioning businesses as reliable and reputable in their industries.
Achieving Steady Growth: By leveraging strategies like media relations and thought leadership, PR drives sustained visibility and engagement that supports long-term business growth.
Setting Businesses Up for Transitions: PR prepares companies for major milestones like expansion or sale by enhancing their public image and fostering goodwill with customers and stakeholders.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Reach out to Josh at josh@10to1pr.com Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest: An industry veteran with more than 20 years experience in public relations and crisis communications, Josh Weiss is committed to strategic communications that are targeted, attention grabbing, and achieve client goals. He began honing his skills in high school and college, working at several radio stations including CBS Radio, where the list of high-level interviews included former U.S. Speaker Dick Gephardt and New York Governor George Pataki and rock stars Billy Joel and Don Henley.
After graduating from Kent State University, Josh worked for the Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives, crafting news coverage for 60 House members to explain key votes and win support from local voters. After the 2000 election, he moved to Arizona and held a variety of PR roles including national Director of Public Relations for Rural/Metro, a leading national provider of private ambulance and fire protection services, and Director of Communications and Public Affairs for American Traffic Solutions, a national leader in traffic safety cameras.
In 2012, Josh founded 10 to 1 Public Relations to help clients engineer the perceptions of others, aligning creative strategies with their long-term goals and facilitating purposeful relationship building with key members of the media, government, and the broader community. For more than 20 years he has helped hundreds of clients across a wide spectrum of industries and services to build positive brands and manage reputations. In the process, he has won numerous awards for his clients, his company, and himself.
Frequently chosen to speak at local, state, and national conferences on best practices and media relations techniques for both proactive and crisis communications, Josh has been published in several publications.
Ready to plan your perfect business exit?
Prepare for a once in a lifetime exit and secure your legacy at the Scottsdale founders forum.
The Scottsdale Founders Forum is tomorrow! Register now at scottsdalefoundersforum.com
In Ep. #56 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Doug Ducey, the co-founder of Cold Stone Creamery and former Governor of Arizona. We talked about his journey of transforming Cold Stone from a single store into a global brand and the key decisions that led to its successful sale in 2007. Doug shared strategic insights on scaling a business, leveraging franchising as a growth strategy, and navigating the complexities of preparing for an exit - offering valuable lessons for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.
What You’ll Learn:
Building a Scalable Business: Learn how to strategically grow a company by leveraging unique value propositions and past experiences to build a scalable, sustainable brand.
Using Franchising as a Growth Model: Discover how franchising can be a powerful tool for expansion when capital is limited, with a focus on empowering franchisees and maintaining consistency.
Preparing for a Strategic Exit: Understand the importance of thorough preparation, assembling the right advisors, and timing the market to achieve a successful and strategic business exit.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Find Doug on LinkedIn Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest: Doug Ducey is a renowned businessman and leader who served as Arizona’s 23rd governor from 2015 to 2023. Before entering public service, he gained recognition in the corporate world as the CEO of Cold Stone Creamery. Under his leadership, the brand expanded from a single shop in Tempe, Arizona, to over 1,400 locations worldwide, making it a global success story by the time of its sale in 2007.
As governor, Ducey focused on economic growth, education reform, and tax reduction, transforming Arizona’s economy with a balanced budget, record surplus, and the implementation of the nation’s lowest flat tax.
Now serving as CEO of Citizens for Free Enterprise, Ducey brings a wealth of experience in business, governance, and strategic leadership, offering unique insights into scaling operations, fostering innovation, and achieving impactful growth.
Ready to plan your perfect business exit? Prepare for a once in a lifetime exit and secure your legacy at the Scottsdale founders forum. Register for our next event at scottsdalefoundersforum.com In Ep. #55 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I share real questions from real business owners like you who are considering what it truly takes to plan a successful exit — whether it’s finding the right buyer, preserving your family legacy, or making sure the sale supports your next chapter.
What You’ll Learn:
Maximizing Value and Minimizing Taxes: The Scottsdale Founders Forum provides expert guidance on structuring your exit to maximize after-tax profits.
Ensuring a Smooth Family Transition: Learn strategies from estate experts to secure a seamless generational transfer at the Forum.
Building a Complete Exit Strategy: Listen to top advisors at the Forum and learn how to create a custom, strategic exit plan for your family and legacy.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
In Ep. 54 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I speak with:
- My business partner and Wealth Advisor, Tom Marki
- Tax CPA, Greg Patel
- Estate planning attorney, Richard Keyt
about the importance of proactive estate planning and financial preparation to help families handle the legal, financial, and tax challenges that come after the loss of a loved one.
We talk about the need to regularly update estate documents, make sure assets are titled correctly, and work with a team of advisors—like financial advisors, attorneys, and tax professionals.
This planning helps reduce stress and the administrative load on families during a difficult time. By planning ahead, families can avoid issues with accessing financial assets and make the process much smoother.
What You’ll Learn:
Proactive estate planning: This helps avoid legal and financial problems after a loved one passes away.
Work with a team of professionals: Having a coordinated team of financial advisors, attorneys, and tax experts ensures that all legal, financial, and tax-related issues are handled smoothly and efficiently after someone’s death.
Managing taxes and assets: After a death, families need to file tax returns for the deceased and their estate.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Have estate planning questions? Ask Richard Keyt at rk@keytlaw.com Have tax questions? Ask Greg Patel with MBE CPAS and call 608-356-7733 Find Tom on LinkedIn
Find Armando on LinkedIn
In Ep. 53 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I sat down with John McAdam, managing partner of Pioneer Business Ventures, to discuss practical strategies for growing and exiting a business. John explains the importance of having a clear value proposition, setting strategic goals, and focusing on business planning to drive growth.
For business owners planning their exit, John shares key tips on improving profitability, knowing your company’s true market value, and identifying potential buyers early.
He also covers retirement planning, using tools like annuities to ensure financial stability after the sale. This episode offers actionable advice for those looking to grow their business and prepare for a successful exit.
What You’ll Learn:
Business Growth and Planning: John emphasizes the importance of a clear value proposition, strategic planning, and setting milestones to drive business growth. Highlighting that business owners must work on their business, not just in it.
Exit and Succession Strategies: How and when to prepare for a successful business exit, including boosting profitability (EBITDA), knowing the true market value of the business, and identifying potential buyers early.
Retirement and Financial Stability: The importance of planning for a sustainable post-exit lifestyle and how business owners can align their financial goals with their long-term personal and family needs.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Have a question for John? Give him a call at (609) 460-4531
Find Armando on LinkedIn
In Ep. 52 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, we revisit the Fall '22 Scottsdale Founders Forum.
Business experts take you through how selling a business is a major and complex event that requires careful planning, preparation, and the right team of professionals. The team includes M&A intermediaries, investment bankers, attorneys, and tax strategists.
By engaging with advisors early, tracking key financial metrics, and creating a competitive bidding environment, business owners can maximize the value of their sale. We also learn how to plan ahead, especially with taxes, and to understand the risks associated with earnouts to ensure the best possible outcome.
What You’ll Learn:
Early Planning and Expert Help: Start planning early and involve professionals like M&A intermediaries, investment bankers, attorneys, and tax strategists to ensure a smooth, profitable sale.
Boost Value with Competitive Bidding: Use an auction-style process with multiple buyers to drive up the sale price and let the market determine the business's true value.
Tax Strategy and Earnout Risks: Plan taxes carefully to reduce liabilities and negotiate earnouts wisely since sellers lose control of the business after the sale.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
In Ep. #51 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, Business Consultant, Marcus Sipolt, takes us through his unique approach to how he helps business owners grow their companies.
He focuses on creating efficient systems when preparing businesses for transitions, whether through a sale or passing it to the next generation.
Marcus highlights reducing owner involvement, standardizing processes, and maintaining strong financials as key steps. He also uses dashboards to track performance, aiming to make businesses more self-sustaining and valuable.
Starting this process early is critical to ensuring a smooth transition.
What You’ll Learn:
Defining Focus: Marcus Sipolt helps business owners understand the true value of their company by assessing owner involvement, standardizing processes, and improving financial systems to make the business more appealing to buyers.
System and Leadership Development: Using systems like dashboards and building strong leadership can help make businesses more self-sustaining and valuable.
Importance of Early Preparation: Starting early is crucial for increasing the business’s value and ensuring a smooth transition or sale.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Learn more about Blind Side
Connect with Marcus at msipolt@blindsidesbc.com
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest:
Marcus Sipolt began his career after earning a BS in Accounting from Western Illinois University, joining Arthur Andersen in Chicago before transferring to Phoenix, where he worked in consulting.
He became a Partner at Accenture, leading government services practices in New York, Phoenix, and New Mexico, and oversaw numerous gaming studies, including the startup of eight US lotteries. In 1997, he earned an MBA from ASU and founded TB Consulting (TBC), a Phoenix-based business helping mid-sized organizations with back-office operations and technology.
Marcus founded Blindside, a business advisory firm, and has served as an EOS implementer and a certified Working Genius Coach. He is actively involved in various charitable and advisory boards, including the WIU President’s Advisory Council and the Fiesta Bowl Board, and has been recognized with several alumni awards.
In Ep. #50 of the #FoundersGuidepostPodcast, we release the Spring 2022 Scottsdale Founders Forum event, highlighting the critical need for thorough preparation and the right team when selling your business. Selling isn’t just about finding a buyer; it involves understanding your exit options and planning ahead.
A panel of seasoned professional exit experts take us through the unique challenges of that once-in-a-lifetime sale of your business, emphasizing how family dynamics can impact the successful business transfer.
This advice remains just as relevant today: proper planning and professional guidance are essential for a successful exit and the beginning of that next chapter of your life
What You’ll Learn:
Thorough Preparation and Planning: Jim Afinowich and John Farr stress the need for business owners to plan well in advance for the sale or transfer of their business to ensure its success and maximize value.
Importance of Professional Guidance: Mike Patterson highlights the crucial role of experts like attorneys and investment bankers in helping business owners navigate the complexities of selling a business.
Family-Owned Business Challenges: The expert panel discusses the unique difficulties in family-owned businesses, particularly with family dynamics and generational transfers, emphasizing the need for clear communication and strategic planning.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
In Ep. #49 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I sit down with Sam DiPietro from Spencer Fane for a conversation about the critical importance of early and strategic estate planning for business owners when preparing for the upcoming 2026 changes to estate tax laws.
Sam walks us through the importance of proactive planning, such as using valuation discounts, restructuring your business, and having open conversations with your family. These strategies can help you reduce tax liabilities and ensure your wealth is preserved and transferred according to your wishes.
Starting these discussions and planning efforts early is essential to avoid potential issues as the 2026 deadline approaches.
What You’ll Learn:
Importance of Early Estate Planning: Understand how and when to engage in strategic estate planning ahead of the upcoming change to estate tax laws.
Valuation Discounts and Restructuring: How to use valuation discounts and business restructuring to reduce your taxable estate and preserve your wealth.
Family Communication: Learn the importance of having clear conversations with family members about the future of the business to ensure a smooth transition and avoid conflicts.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Connect with Sam! (LinkedIn)
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest:
Samuel collaborates with families and their advisors to create customized estate plans that consider the specific needs of each family, ensuring the protection and seamless transfer of wealth.
Samuel has extensive experience in crafting estate plans tailored to the unique requirements of modern families. Some illustrative examples of these plans encompass provisions for children with special needs, strategies for bequeathing wealth to beneficiaries grappling with addiction, designing trusts that safeguard against potential creditors or divorce, planning for blended families, and structuring inheritances for non-US citizens with respect to property in the U.S.
Samuel, a certified public accountant with two advanced degrees in taxation, has successfully implemented plans that reduce income, gift, estate, and generation-skipping transfer taxes in the context of succession planning for individuals and privately held businesses.
In Ep. #48 of the Founder’s Guide Post Podcast, Heidi Jannenga details her journey in founding and growing WebPT.
She highlights the strategic decisions, challenges, successes that were encountered along the way and her experiences of being a female leader in a male dominated industry.
Heidi focuses on the importance of having a clear vision, staying focused, bringing in specialized expertise at different stages of growth, maintaining strong core values and company culture, and making informed decisions about investment and expansion.
What You’ll Learn:
Strategic Decisions and Growth: Key strategies like having a clear vision, staying focused, and bringing in specialized expertise at different growth stages were crucial for WebPT's expansion.
Importance of Core Values and Culture: Core values and company culture guided decision-making and hiring practices, ensuring alignment with WebPT's mission.
Challenges and Successes as a Female Founder: Overcoming challenges as a female founder in a male-dominated industry required strong business knowledge and effective communication.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Connect with Heidi! (LinkedIn)
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest:
As co-founder and Chief Clinical Officer, Heidi advises on the company’s strategic direction and product innovation, while advocating for the rehab therapy profession on an international scale. She co-founded WebPT after recognizing the need for a more sophisticated industry-specific EMR platform and has since guided the company through exponential growth, while garnering national recognition. Heidi brings with her more than 15 years of experience as a physical therapist and multi-clinic site director as well as a passion for healthcare innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
An active member of the sports and private practice sections of the APTA, Heidi advocates for independent rehab therapy businesses, speaks as a subject-matter expert at industry conferences and events, and participates in local and national technology, entrepreneurship, and women-in-leadership seminars. In 2014, Heidi was appointed to the PT-PAC Board of Trustees. She also serves as a mentor to physical therapy students and local entrepreneurs and leverages her platform to promote the importance of diversity, company culture, and overall business acumen for private practice rehab therapy professionals. In 2015, Heidi was named the AzPTA's Physical Therapist of the Year.
Heidi was a collegiate basketball player at the University of California, Davis, and remains a lifelong fan of the Aggies. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and exercise physiology, went on to earn her master’s degree in physical therapy at the Institute of Physical Therapy in St. Augustine, Florida, and obtained her doctorate of physical therapy through Evidence in Motion. When she’s not enjoying time with her daughter Ava, Heidi is perfecting her Spanish, practicing yoga, or hiking one of her favorite Phoenix trails.
In the latest episode of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, we’ll explore the third part of the Scottsdale Founders Forum white paper, which helps business founders with their first exit.
The Founder’s Forum white paper, which is available on FoundersGuidePost.com, is based on the Scottsdale Founder’s Forum, a bi-annual live event to help Arizona founders preserve their American Success Story. This live event offers valuable insights from experts like merger and acquisition attorneys and investment bankers.
In this episode, Armando Roman talks about why it’s important to:
- Not sell on your own.
- Ensure your advisors have direct exit experience.
- Understanding all exit options.
- Not rushing the process.
It's crucial to align your exit with personal, family, and financial goals. Careful planning and professional guidance can make your exit successful and fulfilling.
What You’ll Learn:
Purpose and Audience: The white paper helps founders contemplating their first business exit, especially those with decades-old companies.
Expert Advice: Experts like merger and acquisition attorneys and investment bankers provide critical guidance on the exit process.
Key Tips: Tips include not selling alone, having experienced advisors, understanding all options, not rushing, and aligning the exit with personal and financial goals.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
In Ep. #46 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I dive into the Scottsdale Founders Forum events, which are designed to help business founders prepare for selling their companies. These events offer valuable expert advice, such as the importance of early planning, assembling a professional exit team, and getting ready for the pre-sale process.
Additionally, it’s crucial to operate your business as if it’s always for sale, understand what drives its value, understand emotional and financial readiness, and plan for life after the sale.
What You’ll Learn:
Early Planning and Preparation: Start planning 2-5 years in advance, clean up financials, and assemble a professional exit team.
Operational Efficiency: Run the business as if it's always for sale, understand value drivers, and be ready for pre-sale documentation.
Post-Sale and Emotional Readiness: Plan for life after the sale and ensure emotional and financial readiness to let go of the business.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
In episode #45 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I take you through key insights from the Scottsdale Founders Forum, focusing on the critical considerations and questions founders should address when preparing to sell their businesses.
We explore seven essential questions: determining your business's value, making strategic changes to increase that value, understanding the selling process, maintaining confidentiality, the role of investment bankers, timing the sale, and ensuring the sale proceeds meet your personal and financial goals. This episode emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation and expert advice for a successful and satisfying business exit.
What You’ll Learn:
Seven Key Questions: Founders should address critical questions about business value, strategic changes, selling process, confidentiality, investment bankers, timing, and financial goals when preparing to sell.
Preparation and Advice: Thorough preparation and expert advice are essential for a successful business exit.
Forum Insights: Learn from the Scottsdale Founders Forum where 150 founders gained essential strategies for preparing their businesses for a successful sale.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
In the episode #44 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, my business partner, Tom Marki, and I cover the important estate planning aspects that business owners need to consider when they're planning to sell their business. This is a checklist we like to use with our clients to help them effectively navigate the complexities of updating and maintaining their estate plans as they face life's changes.
In our conversation, we cover several crucial areas:
- The vital role that key personnel play in keeping the business successful after it's been sold.
- What needs to be thought through when planning to hand over the business to family members.
- The processes involved in valuing and appraising the business.
- The importance of addressing any liabilities and putting together competitive compensation packages before you approach potential buyers.
We stress the importance of starting this planning early and approaching it strategically. Estate Planning isn't just about the financial or legal sides; it's a multifaceted process. Our goal with this episode is to equip founders with the tools and knowledge to make this process simple.
What You’ll Learn:
-
Schedule Regular Reviews: Regularly review your estate planning documents to ensure they align with current laws and life changes.
-
Utilize Comprehensive Services: Engage with professionals like those at Axiom Founder's Family Office to collaboratively update and maintain essential estate documents.
-
Address Key Planning Elements: Consider state-specific laws, upcoming tax changes, and select appropriate trustees and powers of attorney for your estate plans.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
Find Tom on LinkedIn
In Ep. #43 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I had the pleasure to sit down and talk with Neil Patel of Patel Advisory Group, PC.
Neil is an expert who helps entrepreneurs gear up to exit their business. He focuses on refining business systems and improving financial literacy, which allows for crystal clear decision-making and successful transitions.
Neil stressed how crucial it is to view financial statements as more than just tools for tax preparation. Financials should be leveraged for strategic planning and managing resources effectively.
We also talk about Neils business model where he guides clients through a reevaluation and restructuring of their financial systems and processes when their existing strategies falter.
Neil helps businesses streamline their systems and financials for a buyer. Listen to this episode and understand how to shift your perception of financial statements to increase the value of your business.
What You’ll Learn:
-
Optimize Business Systems for Exit Readiness: Business owners looking to exit should focus on refining their business systems and financial operations to ensure maximum profitability and smooth transitions.
-
Leverage Financial Statements Strategically: Utilize financial statements not just for tax purposes but as essential tools for strategic planning and resource management to drive better business outcomes.
-
Align Business Strategies with Personal Goals: Ensure your business strategies and operations align with your personal aspirations and goals.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Reach out to Neil Patel at (480)-626-9270.
Want to learn more about Patel Advisory Group, PC? Check out their website!
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest:
Neil P. Patel is a Certified Public Accountant and has been the owner of Neil P. Patel, CPA PC since 1999. Neil works with small to medium enterprises to help them drive profitability and growth through better financial management.
Neil started his practice from the living room of his parent’s home in 1999. In 2005 he acquired a tax and accounting firm which, at that time, was 3 times his size. Neil strongly believes that small business has been and continues to be the backbone of the U.S. economy. He takes a no-nonsense approach to educating and guiding his clients to achieve their goals and realize their vision.
Prior to starting his practice, Neil worked with various public and private companies working his way up to controller. As the controller of companies of this size, he was provided with an understanding and knowledge of all the critical areas of a business necessary to run a successful enterprise. This experience has been invaluable in advising his clients, impacting the performance of their business and elevating profitability.
Neil graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Loyola University of Chicago. He sat for the CPA exam shortly after graduation and passed the first time. Neil is a member of the Arizona Society of Certified Public Accountants.
In Ep. #42 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I had the pleasure to sit down with Bradley Scott, an experienced commercial real estate and business broker who specializes in guiding business owners through the complex process of selling their businesses.
In this episode, Bradley and I talk about how intentional preparation, accurate documentation, and strategic marketing to boost a business's marketability and value.
We also talk about the process of evaluating financial records, negotiating contracts, and exploring the legal factors that ensure a smooth and legally sound transfer of business ownership.
Then, Bradley shares how he manages the emotional and practical challenges faced by business owners during the sale process and highlights the strategic measures he takes to secure a profitable and successful business transaction.
What You’ll Learn:
-
Expert Brokerage Insights: The importance of preparation and strategic marketing in improving a business's value.
-
Key Steps in Preparing Your Business for Sale: The essential steps involved in preparing a business for sale, such as thorough valuations and managing legal and financial documents effectively.
-
Handling Emotional and Practical Challenges: How to navigate the often emotional journey of selling your business, ensuring you're supported through practical challenges and making the process as smooth as possible.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
If you'd like to reach out to Bradley, give him a call at (623)-476-3238.
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest:
Bradley Scott is a seasoned commercial real estate and business broker based in Arizona, renowned for his expertise in navigating the intricacies of the commercial real estate and business sale processes. With a rich background in law, Bradley excels in various aspects of the industry, including site selection, business evaluation, due diligence, negotiations, acquisition, disposition, and leasing. He is particularly skilled in assisting business owners with the valuation, analysis, and transaction of their enterprises, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Bradley is an avid outdoors enthusiast, music lover, and a staunch supporter of local businesses. His dedication extends beyond transactions, as he is committed to enriching the lives of his clients, partners, and their families, fostering thriving communities through his work. An active member of the Urban Land Institute and the National Association of Realtors among other organizations, Bradley is a trusted advisor whose comprehensive knowledge and genuine passion make him a valuable asset to anyone looking to navigate the complex landscapes of real estate and business transactions.
In episode #41 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I had the chance to sit down with Gerhard Kratzer to talk about his philosophy and professional approach to business. Gerhard, is the Founder of Kratzer Consulting, a firm that specializes in elevating small business operations through extensive financial analysis and strategic planning.
He talks about how financial data can help business owners make informed decisions to achieve sustainable growth.
By utilizing key performance indicators (KPIs) and advanced financial modeling, Gerhard shares actionable frameworks to help business owners understand their financial situation, plan for the future, and make strategic decisions aimed at optimizing cash flow.
What You’ll Learn:
-
Financial Optimization for Small Businesses: How to boost small business operations through extensive financial analysis and strategic planning.
-
Strategic Application of Financial Data: This episode challenges conventional accounting practices by advocating for a strategy that leverages financial data to help with growth.
-
Advanced Financial Planning and Analysis: How to analyze past financial statements, identify key performance indicators, and implement strategies based on these analyses to improve cash flow.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Reach out to Gerard on his website!
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest:
Gerhard Kratzer is a distinguished expert with over 25 years of experience in financial management. Driven by a mission to empower business owners, our guest combines cross-functional knowledge and expertise to guide companies through crucial decision-making processes.
Beginning a career in finance and management in 1996 at ALDI, a leading German supermarket chain, Gerhard swiftly moved to a startup in the biomaterials industry in 1999. There, he played a pivotal role in building the finance organization from the ground up and successfully navigated the company through to its acquisition in 2003.
As Global Controller for several divisions of the Fortune 500 company Heraeus, our guest provided invaluable support to businesses across Europe, Asia, and North America, mastering financial strategies and cultural nuances alike. His excellence in finance led to a promotion as General Manager and Vice President of Finance at Heraeus Materials Technologies in Chandler, Arizona, followed by a role at the company’s Santa Fe Springs location in California.
In 2015, our guest founded Kratzer Consulting LLC, a firm dedicated to transforming complex financial data into clear, actionable insights that drive profitability and improve cash flow. Tune in to hear how he helps businesses make informed decisions and succeed in today’s dynamic financial landscape.
DOWNLOAD THE CHECKLIST: https://foundersguidepost.com/2024/04/09/20-issues-you-should-consider-when-planning-for-the-sale-disposition-or-succession-of-your-business/
In episode #40 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast, I'm joined with my business partner, Tom Marki, to talk about the 20 issues business owners should consider when planning for the sale, disposition or succession of their business. This is a checklist we use with clients and founders to skillfully navigate the intricacies of selling, disposing of, or stepping away from their business.
Throughout the episode, we tackle several pivotal areas, such as:
- The role key individuals play in ensuring the continued success of the business after its sale.
- The variables of planning for family succession.
- The process of business valuation and appraisal.
We also discuss the importance of addressing any potential liabilities and the need for competitive compensation packages before standing in front of potential buyers.
What we're really stressing here is the importance of early and thoughtful planning.
Exiting a business isn't just a financial or legal maneuver; it's a process with moving variables. Our aim with this episode is to equip founders with the insights and tools they need to navigate these complexities, ultimately ensuring the best possible outcome for everyone involved.
What You’ll Learn:
- Learn to Plan Like the Best: Learn the roadmap for business founders considering the sale or transition of their businesses.
- Key Focus Areas for Business Exit Strategies: The core elements vital for a smooth business exit.
- The Critical Importance of Early and Comprehensive Planning: Learn the absolute necessity of initiating the exit planning process early and adopting a thorough approach.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Find Tom on LinkedIn
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
In the #39 episode of the #FoundersGuidePost, I had the pleasure to talk with Sharon Lechter, where I was really struck by how dedicated she is to boosting financial literacy and business skills for everyone, from individual savers to big-time business owners.
Sharon isn't just any expert — she's a well-respected author and a powerhouse in the world of financial education. She talks about a bunch of crucial issues, like how important it is to teach financial basics in schools, the best ways to get a business ready to sell by making sure its systems and team are top-notch, and how crucial intellectual property is to a business's value.
What really stood out to me was Sharon's belief in financial literacy as a tool for empowerment, helping people take charge of their money instead of being overwhelmed by it. She shared some strategies on managing and passing on wealth in smart ways.
Through her work, Sharon is on a mission to not just inform but truly inspire people toward financial freedom and success, pushing for changes in how our schools teach finance and championing the growth of individuals and businesses alike. Our discussion was a powerful reminder of her passion for making a real difference in people's financial understanding and capabilities.
What You’ll Learn:
- Commitment to Financial Literacy: The importance of incorporating financial education into the school curriculum and highlights her mission to inspire and educate individuals toward financial independence and success.
- Strategies for Business Preparation and Valuation: Sharon introduces the "Six Ps" as essential components for business success and discusses how leveraging intellectual property can significantly enhance a business's value and reach.
- Educational and Personal Growth: Her discussion on wealth management, intellectual property, and the challenges and opportunities presented by technology like AI encourages us to advocate for change and continually seek personal growth.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Learn more about Sharon on her website - Sharonlechter.com
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Sharon Lechter:
Sharon Lechter is an esteemed entrepreneur, international speaker, best-selling author, mentor, and philanthropist with over 35 years of experience as a licensed CPA and a Chartered Global Management Accountant. Known for her expertise in financial literacy and entrepreneurial success, Sharon has significantly impacted the electronic book industry and personal finance world. Co-authoring the international bestseller "Rich Dad Poor Dad" and contributing to the Rich Dad series, she has played a crucial role in developing a leading personal finance brand. Sharon has also collaborated with the Napoleon Hill Foundation, releasing bestsellers that rejuvenate Hill's teachings, and she’s recognized for her participation in the movie "Think and Grow Rich: The Legacy."
Beyond her writing, Sharon is a revered mentor who has advised major brands and served two U.S. presidents on financial literacy. As CEO of Pay Your Family First, she focuses on financial education projects to boost financial IQ and empower individuals to create legacies. Following a period of reflection after her son’s unexpected death in 2012, Sharon has reignited her mission with the Play Big Movement, encouraging others to transcend past limitations and achieve significant impact.
Residing in Paradise Valley, AZ, with her husband Michael Lechter, an expert in Intellectual Property and Organizational Architecture, Sharon finds balance in philanthropy, volunteering, and retreating to their dude ranch, Cherry Creek Lodge, for rejuvenation. Her life’s work and personal journey exemplify her commitment to empowering others financially and leaving a lasting legacy.
In the #38 episode of the #FoundersGuidePost, I had the pleasure to sit down and chat with Brian J. Burt, Chair of Emerging Business Group at Snell & Wilmer. We cover why it's super important for business owners - who are even just starting to think about selling their businesses - to get a head start on planning.
Brian talked through how the process is packed with potential headaches and pitfalls, and why it's a game-changer to have seasoned pros like legal advisors and intermediaries in your corner. Brian shares his approach to supporting businesses at every turn of their journey, emphasizing the need to address any possible issues before putting the 'For Sale' sign up.
This forward thinking approach doesn't just smooth out the sale process but also significantly ups the exit value you can get from a deal. Brian's insights highlight the crucial steps of: - Thorough preparation - Wise legal counsel - Strategic adjustments
essential for maximizing financial gains, and ensuring a seamless handover of your business. Whether it's moving to new hands or staying within the family.
What You’ll Learn:
Early and Proactive Planning is Essential: By starting the planning process early, owners can identify and resolve potential issues, ensuring a smoother and more profitable sale process.
The Role of Professional Guidance: Their expertise is pivotal in avoiding common pitfalls, ensuring that the business is presented in the best light to potential buyers, and in securing a deal that aligns with the seller’s expectations.
Comprehensive Preparation Covers Many Aspects: Planning not only helps enhance the value of the business but also in protecting the owner's interests throughout the sale process and beyond.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Reach out to Brian!
BBURT@SWLAW.COM
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Brian Burt:
Chair of Snell & Wilmer's Emerging Business Group. Brian Burt advises entrepreneurs and emerging growth companies in all stages of development, from formation to liquidity. He also represents banks, financial services companies, private investors, and venture capital funds. He has extensive experience in corporate organization, reorganization and governance; private equity and debt financing; shareholder/owner relations, buyouts and disputes; employment and consulting agreements; employee incentive programs; general contract negotiation; supplier/manufacturing agreements; securities regulation; technology transfer and licensing; joint ventures and strategic alliances; fund formation; cloud computing; corporate asset protection and succession planning; and mergers and acquisitions. Brian represents clients in a wide variety of industries, including banking and financial services, biotechnology, capital investment, consumer products and services, education, entertainment/media, healthcare, high tech, Internet, manufacturing, marketing/public relations, medical device, nutraceuticals, outdoor, professional services, real estate development, renewable energy, and software and information technology.
Having previously founded, raised capital for, and run his own company, Brian brings a unique "real-world" perspective to his business practice.
In episode #37 of the Founder's Guidepost Podcast, I sat down with Tony Wiedenski, founder of RevUp Sales, who talks about how to improve sales processes and collect data for growth.
Tony explains why it’s important to track the right metrics in order to make data-driven decisions.
Then Tony walked us through his sales audit process which allowed him to identify improvement areas, and focus on skill development to meet modern buyer expectations.
This episode will teach you how to take an efficient approach to sales improvement using data analytics, strategic planning, customer value understanding, and continuous skill development for business success.
What You’ll Learn:
-
The Importance of Data and Analytics in Sales: A deep understanding of key metrics, such as customer acquisition costs and market size, is essential for making informed decisions that can lead to sales improvement.
-
Strategic Approach to Sales Improvement: How to understand why existing customers remain loyal and how this insight can be used to attract new customers.
-
Skill Development and Coaching for Sales Teams: The importance of a coaching culture within sales teams is emphasized, drawing parallels with professional athletes who benefit from specialized coaching and continuous practice.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Reach out to Tony on LinkedIn
TonyW@revup-sales.com Preserve Your American Success Story! Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Tony Wiedenski: Tony Wiedenski is Founder and CEO of RevUp Sales. Throughout his 15+ year career in sales and sales leadership, he developed a passion for helping sales people and sales teams operate more efficiently and effectively. Tony’s revenue growth experience spans across SMB, Mid-Market and Enterprise in a variety of different industries. His passion for sales enablement grew from a time he was asked to start a sales enablement function to support a sales organization of 150+ sales people. He grew the enablement team to five enablement professionals supporting more than 200 sales people around the world. Tony's experience includes being a top-performing sales rep and sales leader. This includes working for established teams and startups, and leading GTM for a new, disruptive SaaS product.
In episode #36 of the Founder's Guidepost Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Harold J. Faig, who brought his extensive experience in global corporate strategy to the table.
Harold shares why owners need to prepare before selling their businesses. He highlights the role of professional advisors in helping with the sale process and the importance of a long-range plan that showcases the business's future. Harold also touched on the need for a strong organizational structure and the right team for a successful transition.
Ultimately, our discussion underscored the value of preparation, strategic clarity, and seller readiness in successfully selling a business.
What You’ll Learn:
Understanding Business Value and Organizational Structure: Harold shares the importance of internal reviews, strategic positioning, and evaluating the company's leadership to ensure a successful transition to new ownership.
Role of Professional Advisors: The necessity of engaging professional advisors, not just for legal and financial aspects but also for understanding and articulating the business's value to potential buyers. Advisors play a key role in guiding the seller through the process, avoiding common issues like deal fatigue.
Preparation and Strategic Planning: This includes understanding the buyer's mindset, having a clear strategy and objective, and developing a long-range plan that outlines the future potential of the business.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Reach out to Armando if you have any questions for Harold! Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Harold Faig:
Harold J. Faig, a distinguished leader in the plastics and healthcare industries, co-founded MedPlast, Inc. in 2008 alongside Baird Capital. As CEO until its 2016 sale to JLL Partners and Water Street Healthcare Partners, he drove MedPlast’s transformation into a global provider of custom plastics solutions, now operating as Viant with twenty-three facilities worldwide. Harold’s strategic leadership extended beyond MedPlast; he advised River Cities Capital on acquiring Q’Apel, where he remains a stockholder. Prior to MedPlast, Harold enhanced his portfolio with significant roles, including non-executive Chairman of Xaloy, Inc., and President and CEO of The Tech Group, Inc., which was sold to West Pharmaceutical in 2005. His career began at Milacron, retiring as President and COO in 2003 after extensive service in various capacities. Educationally, Harold holds an MBA from Xavier University, along with undergraduate degrees from the University of Mount Saint Joseph and the University of Cincinnati. A prolific innovator, he has been awarded several patents in plastics and control systems. Harold's commitment to industry excellence is evidenced by his leadership roles within the Society of Plastics Industry and his induction into the SME College of Fellows in 1998.
In Episode #35 of the Founder's Guide Post Podcast, I had the opportunity to sit down with Mark Young, an Investment Banker and Management Partner of CKS Advisors. We talked about his expertise in guiding first-time business sellers.
Mark holds a strong background in investment and commercial banking, focusing on preparing entrepreneurs for the complexities of selling their businesses. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and navigating the sale process, aiming to reduce surprises and ensure sellers are comfortable and informed.
A key part of his approach is a thorough assessment of the business, including:
Its financials. Team dynamics. Owner involvement.
to make it appealing to potential buyers.
Mark’s approach is geared towards making the transition as smooth as possible for first-time sellers, acknowledging the emotional weight of selling a business often regarded as a personal legacy.
What You’ll Learn:
Guidance for First-Time Business Sellers: The importance of educating first-time sellers about the sale process to minimize surprises and make them feel comfortable and informed.
What’s Involved in a Business Assessment: The importance of a comprehensive assessment of the business, including financials, team dynamics, and the owner's role, before engaging with potential buyers.
Importance of Confidentiality: Mark highlights the importance of maintaining confidentiality throughout the sale process, using tactics like anonymous teasers and non-disclosure agreements to protect the seller's identity and interests.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Reach out to Mark!
myoung@cksadvisors.com
cksadvisors.com
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Mark Young:
Mark brings more than 35 years of combined experience in investment banking (M&A), corporate finance, and leadership roles to his Clients. His expertise includes structuring company sale transactions, capital raises, debt placements, LBO’s and ESOP’s.
Prior to joining CKS, Mark held executive positions with money center financial institutions including Merrill Lynch and US Bank, as well as several regional financial institutions. During his career, he has successfully structured, negotiated and closed a wide range of transactions amounting to more than $2 billion in value.
Mark is a member of The Alliance of M&A Advisors, M&A Source, and Association for Corporate Growth (ACG).
Professional Licenses: Mark is registered with FINRA as a Limited Representative – Investment Banking Series 79, and Series 63.
Education: Mark received his MBA from Portland State University and a BA in Accounting and Finance from Lewis and Clark College.
In Episode #34 of the Founder's Guide Post Podcast, I had the opportunity to sit down with John Chionchio, an Exit Planner and Partner of Wealthpoint, and talk about Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). John, drawing from his entrepreneurial experience, highlighted ESOPs as more than just tools for ownership transfer. They're complex, versatile, and crucial for shaping a company's future and enhancing employee engagement.
John touched into the mechanics of ESOPs, like how trusts buy businesses and the role of employees as beneficiaries. He cleared up misconceptions, especially around taxes and financial disclosures to employees. A key point was the strategic use of warrants, allowing owners to benefit from future growth after selling their shares.
He emphasized the need for detailed planning in setting up an ESOP, ensuring its success and the importance of clear communication with employees to maintain morale during transitions. John warned against pursuing ESOPs solely for tax benefits, stressing their alignment with long-term employee and company interests.
Overall, John’s insights underlined the significance of ESOPs in keeping companies locally owned, preserving culture, and contrasting with changes seen in larger entity acquisitions. His main message: understand ESOPs' complexities and choose the right professionals for effective implementation and best outcomes.
What You’ll Learn:
Complexity and Versatility of ESOPs: Leveraging his experience as an entrepreneur, highlights the complexity and high configurability of Employee Stock Ownership Plans. John emphasizes that ESOPs offer more than just a means of transferring ownership; they bring a range of benefits including tax efficiency, enhanced employee engagement, and the ability for owners to maintain control over their business after the transition.
Strategic Use and Planning of ESOPs: John discusses the detailed process involved in setting up an ESOP. This includes addressing financial mechanics, clarifying misconceptions (especially around taxation and employee financial disclosures), and strategically using tools like warrants. These warrants allow owners to benefit from future growth, even after selling their shares. He underscores the importance of detailed analysis and planning to maximize the benefits of ESOPs.
Importance of Communication and Timing in ESOP Transition: Emphasizing the importance of timing and preparation in planning for a business exit, John advises on the need for clear communication with employees during the ESOP transition to maintain morale and ensure smooth changeover. He also points out the potential pitfalls of pursuing ESOPs for the wrong reasons, such as solely for tax benefits, and stresses aligning them with genuine benefits for employees and the company's long-term goals.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Reach out to John!
(541)-450-5060
Johnc@wealthpoint.net
https://www.wealthpoint.net/
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About John Chionchio: Whether on the racetrack, the golf course or serving his clients, John’s analytical mind and focus on excellence and outcomes is what drives him. After building and successfully selling his electronics companies to a Fortune 100 company, John retired at age 37 and began consulting with business owners to help them better understand the true value of their enterprise and to run it so it better served their lives. After 16 years of retirement, John started and grew a Business Advisory practice with Northwestern Mutual then sold it to join WealthPoint to better serve the needs of the affluent market.
In Episode #33 of the Founder's Guide Post Podcast, I sat down with Richard Dickens, founder of Dickens Quality Demolition, to explore his experience with selling his business. Richard highlighted how personal life changes and the increasing demands of the business, along with his family's influence, especially his wife's, guided his decision to sell. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a 'clean' operation, separating personal and business finances, making the company attractive to buyers. Richard’s strategic selection of a broker, focusing on industry knowledge and alignment with his business goals, was a key part of the process.
He underscored the necessity of professional guidance in navigating the complex sale process and the emotional impacts on himself and his employees. Our discussion also covered the critical role of legal and financial planning, including philanthropy and tax considerations. Richard shared insights on the importance of planning for post-sale life and keeping the family involved in philanthropic efforts. This episode provided a wide view of the multifaceted nature of selling a business, blending practical, emotional, and financial perspectives.
What You’ll Learn:
-
It’s Okay for you to Sell Your Business because of the Demands from your Personal Life and other Businesses: Richard Dickens' decision to sell his company, Dickens Quality Demolition, was significantly influenced by changes in his personal life, including his family's evolving needs, particularly the role of his wife and the desire to slow down as his daughters started their own lives.
-
Professional Guidance and Strategic Planning is Critical: The process of selling the business involves strategic planning, including maintaining a 'clean' separation between personal and business finances and choosing the right broker with industry knowledge and alignment with business goals. The role of professional guidance in navigating the complex sale process was emphasized.
-
Post-Sale Planning and Family Involvement: Richard highlighted the importance of legal and financial planning in the context of the sale, including considerations for philanthropy and tax planning. The involvement of family in these decisions and planning for life after the sale, including philanthropic activities, was also discussed as crucial elements.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
https://www.dickensquality.com/
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Richard Dickens:
With over a 30 years in the industry, Mr. Dickens has taken Dickens Quality Demolition to be the premier demolition contractor in the state. Mr. Dickens started in demolition as lead man trainee; working his way up from foreman to Vice President at a large, Phoenix based, demolition contractor. Mr. Dickens is a native Arizonan with strong business and personal ties to the community. In 1997, Mr. Dickens felt it time to establish himself in the industry. With 80 hour work weeks, and some sound investment planning, Dickens Quality Demolition was created. Now in our 24th year of operations, Dickens Quality Demolition averages over 150 employees.
Management – Extensive background in estimating, budgeting, operational supervision, and business operations throughout the demolition industry.
Revenue generation – Proven ability to recognize potential clientele and develop existing clientele. Gross revenues have grown from six figures to $15+ million a year on average for the company
Employee Development – Dedicated leader experienced in recruiting, hiring, and training highly qualified and diverse candidates.
Asbestos Recognition Course 1993/E.P.A. Hazardous Material Course 1997, MSHA Certifications, 30 Hour OSHA
In episode #32 of the Founder's Guide Post Podcast, I had a conversation with Gaurav Sud, who works at Lockton Companies with a lot of experience in mergers and acquisitions.
He's an expert in a special type of insurance called representation and warranty (rep and warranty) insurance, which is really important for business sales. Gaurav explains how rep and warranty insurance helps handle risks when selling a business. It's a better way than the usual methods because it makes things easier and more financially beneficial for everyone involved. We talked about how this insurance takes into account the risks known and unknown in a business deal, moving these risks from the people in the deal to the insurance company.
Gaurav also shares how both buyers and sellers gain from this insurance. For sellers, it means they can get all their money from the sale without having to wait, and buyers still get to keep their safety net.
He mentions that these insurance plans are based on the due diligence done by the buyer, which makes things less complicated for the seller.
The discussion covers how the cost of these insurance policies can change based on different factors like the state of the market and how complex the business is.
What You’ll Learn:
-
Role of Rep and Warranty Insurance: This insurance addresses the risk allocation in business transactions, transferring these risks from the involved parties to the insurance market.
-
Benefits for Buyers and Sellers: Sellers can immediately receive full sale proceeds, avoiding escrow, while buyers maintain their protective coverage.
-
Understanding Insurance Policies: The pricing of these policies generally ranges between 2.5% to 5% of the insured amount.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
https://global.lockton.com/
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Gaurav Sud:
Gaurav joined Lockton’s Transaction Liability Practice in 2021 and serves as a Partner and Co-Practice Leader within the market-leading team. He specializes in brokering deals in the technology industry. Gaurav has more than 15 years of experience in the M&A world. He began his professional career as a Paralegal at Wachtell Lipton in their M&A group, a firm ranked consistently at the top of the M&A category by Vault. Next, Gaurav practiced at Shearman & Sterling, where he worked in their M&A group, dealing with distressed M&A deals from 2007-2011. After moving to California in 2011, Sud started at Fenwick & West, where he worked on deals involving private equity, M&A, venture capital financing and corporate governing. Gaurav joined Aon three years later as a Senior Vice President before his promotion to the role of Senior Managing Director.
In episode #31 of the Founder's Guide Post Podcast with Paul Smiley, CEO and founder of Sonoran Technology, we talk about how Entrepreneurs can be more successful if they find a genuine market need when starting a business rather than just focusing on profits. Drawing from his military background, he linked leadership skills to effective business management, emphasizing the critical role of leadership in complex situations. Our conversation covered various topics, including discipline, trust-building, and mentorship, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Paul also shared key tips on building relationships with banks and offered advice on reducing perceived risks. He emphasized the importance of patience, perseverance, and fostering a culture of respect within a company. The episode ends with Paul talking about why Entrepreneurs need to do succession planning and train young leaders to leave a legacy of effective leadership and make a positive impact in business and beyond.
What You’ll Learn:
-
Addressing Genuine Market Needs: Paul emphasizes the importance of entering the business world with a genuine market need in mind, focusing on long-term sustainability rather than just profits.
-
Building Bank Relationships: Paul shares insights on nurturing strong relationships with banks to secure working capital, emphasizing becoming "bankable" and establishing trust over time.
-
Leadership and Succession: Paul highlights the significance of leadership and succession planning, stressing the need to develop young leaders and ensure business continuity.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
https://www.sonorantechnology.com/
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Paul Smiley:
Paul A. Smiley is the Founder and President of Sonoran Technology and Professional Services located in Goodyear Arizona. Sonoran Technology was recognized as one of the most successful and fast-growing small businesses in the U.S. providing professional service support to the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Army, and other federal agencies. By the end of 2022, Sonoran Technology will have over 250 employees working in 20 states and at overseas military bases. Mr. Smiley volunteers his time as an active and highly engaged board member for U.S. Small Business Administration’s “Boots-to-Business" Program, Estrella Mountain Community College President’s Advisory Board, West Valley Defense Alliance Board, at-large contributor to the Arizona Chapter of the Tuskegee Airman. Mr. Smiley is a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel with over 1,900 flying hours in the E-3 AWACS aircraft. He is a combat veteran of OPERATION DESERT STORM, served twice as a Squadron Commander, Deputy Group Commander, and Pentagon action officer. Lt. Col Smiley is a graduate and former instructor at the Air Force's prestigious Fighter Weapons School.
In this episode with May Lu from Tiffany and Bosco P.A., In this interview, May and I dive into various aspects and considerations when it comes to selling a business.
She highlights the significance of confidentiality through non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), distinguishes between different types of buyers, emphasizes careful information sharing, and stresses the need for assembling a professional team to assist with the sale process.
May Lu's insights also touch on the role of business intermediaries, provide contact information for further assistance, and offer valuable guidance into the complexities involved in selling a business. Overall, May Lu provides a comprehensive guide for business owners looking to effectively navigate the process of selling their businesses in this podcast.
What You’ll Learn:
- Confidentiality and considerations matter.
- How to maximize business value.
- Due diligence correlating to the sale timeline.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Email May Lu - MLU@TBLAW.COM
Tblaw.com
Connect with May on LinkedIn
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About the Guest:
May Lu serves the transactional needs of businesses and their owners by assisting them with business formations, joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, recapitalizations, succession strategies, general business planning, and other business agreements. She also provides guidance to businesses concerning disputes among owners and related fiduciary duties. In addition, May assists clients with regulatory and governance issues related to the U.S. Small Business Administration and other federal, state, and local programs.
May has been recognized as one of the Super Lawyers Southwest Rising Stars for 2012-2017 in the area of mergers and acquisitions. May’s commitment to giving back to the community includes her involvement on the Board of Directors and as pro bono General Counsel of ACLU-Arizona and in volunteering with the ASU Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law’s Business Legal Assistance Program, for which she was awarded the 2011 Outstanding Volunteer Lawyer. She is also an alumna of the 2011-2012 Class of the Bar Leadership Institute sponsored by the State Bar of Arizona. Additionally, she is in her second term on the State Bar of Arizona’s Arizona Attorney Magazine Editorial Board.
Upon graduation from the U of A James E. Rogers College of Law, May served as a Law Clerk for the Honorable Lawrence F. Winthrop, of the Arizona Court of Appeals, Division One. While in law school, May was a Managing Editor of the Arizona Journal of International and Comparative Law.
Prior to law school, May’s interest in assisting businesses motivated her to attend Arizona State University and its Barrett Honors College on a National Merit Scholarship to study economics, international business, and Spanish.
In this episode with Mike Olson from WealthPoint, we talk about how crucial it is for business owners, including founders and those thinking about selling their businesses, to have customized financial and insurance plans.
Mike highlights the importance of creating solutions that fit each individual's unique needs. He also emphasizes the significance of having open and thorough discussions with financial experts rather than rushing into decisions.
Mike points out that it's essential to consider the broader context and thoroughly understand the specific goals of each client. As well as discussing a range of financial and insurance strategies tailored to different stages of a business owner's journey, all aimed at providing guidance and helping them make well-informed choices.
What You’ll Learn:
- The importance of crafting personalized financial and insurance plans tailored to the unique circumstances and goals of business owners, including founders and those planning to exit their businesses.
- The significance of involving financial professionals, business partners, and experts.
- How to avoid hasty decisions and embrace flexibility.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
mike@wealthpoint.net
https://wealthpoint.net/
Connect with Mike on LinkedIn
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Mike Olson:
Mike Olson is a Partner and one of the original founding members at WealthPoint. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Mike has cultivated a profound expertise in collaborating with ultra-affluent families, business owners, and their teams of advisors. His primary focus lies in helping them assess, structure, and optimize insurance portfolios within the context of their comprehensive financial plans.
Originally hailing from Akron, Ohio, Mike pursued a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Miami University of Ohio before relocating to Arizona, drawn by the enticing weather. Since 1998, he has been happily married and is a proud father of three daughters. Beyond his professional pursuits, Mike dedicates his free time to participating in and training for triathlons and biathlons. He also finds enjoyment in the thrill of mountain biking adventures.
In this episode with Jerry Foster from Resolute Commercial, we learned about their vital role in assisting businesses with significant problems. Jerry emphasized the core values of "Grace" and "Transparency" in addressing challenges.
He spoke about the significance of early intervention, establishing clear guidelines, and understanding business pitfalls. Our conversation also touched on the dynamics between businesses and lenders, and the importance of navigating legal challenges effectively.
What You’ll Learn:
- The vital principles of "Grace" and "Transparency" in aiding distressed businesses.
- The importance of early detection and intervention in business challenges is underscored.
- Emphasis is placed on transparent relationships with lenders and expertly navigating financial and legal challenges.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
jfoster@resolutecommerical.com
https://resolutecommercial.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/resolutecommercial/ Connect with Jerry! (Linkedin)
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Jerry Foster:
Jerry is best described as a serial entrepreneur who achieves success by infusing vision and leadership into gaps observed within target markets. Whether contributing significantly to the growth of a startup from a handful of employees to a $100M NASDAQ IPO (IGOI) or establishing his own technology company that was later acquired, Jerry is fueled by the exhilaration of fostering prosperous ventures. His career spans technology, manufacturing, commercial real estate, and commercial turnarounds and workouts. He is skilled in devising relationship-based sales and marketing strategies with a sharp business acumen.
In this episode with Michael Montelongo, we explore the intricacies of governance in banking and finance. Michael emphasizes the importance of boards in ensuring ethical business practices and highlights the recent challenges faced by Silicon Valley Bank and First Republic Bank.
He stressed the need for selecting board members aligned with a company's vision and underscores the professional responsibilities of a director. Our conversation emphasized the pivotal role boards play in bolstering a nation's economic health.
What You’ll Learn:
- Corporate governance is vital for the smooth and ethical operation of organizations.
- How to create a board of directors that are aligned with your vision.
- The importance of continuous learning for the board of directors.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Connect with Michael! (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-montelongo/
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Michael:
President/CEO of GRC Advisory Services, LLC. Board governance advisor and audit committee financial expert serving on several boards. Frequent board governance speaker/panelist and faculty for the NACD, the LCDEF BRI, and the TLDG. Former presidential appointee and Senate-confirmed official. Cross-domain fluency in business, national security, and civic affairs.
In this episode I talk to Steve Boatwright, an attorney specialized in mergers and acquisitions, to discuss the complexities business owners face when selling their ventures.
We emphasized the importance of having a proficient team of professionals to navigate the legal, financial, and operational intricacies of the sale process. We talk about the benefits of thorough preparation and the right professional guidance in ensuring a favorable sale outcome.
This discussion aims to provide a well-rounded perspective on achieving a smooth and successful business transition while selling a business.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why having an M&A attorney on your side can save you money in the long run.
- The paperwork involved in a merger or acquisition.
- The role of an M&A attorney when it comes to assembling a team of advisors.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
steve.boatwright@gknet.com
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Steve:
For more than three decades, Steve has handled public and private business mergers and acquisitions for buyers and sellers of businesses of all kinds, and advised companies raising private equity and public financing. Whether seeking initial funding, expanding the business through follow on funding or acquisition, or pursuing an exit strategy through an asset/stock sale or public offering, Steve offers each client the veteran experience, practical judgment, and seasoned know-how to realize even the most lofty goals in all phases of financing and growth.
On today’s show I have business valuation expert, Lynton Kotzin of JS Held. We talk about the intricacies of determining a company's worth, emphasizing a multi-faceted approach that considers economic trends, company specifics, and three primary valuation methods: asset, market, and income approaches.
Lynton highlights the distinction between financial and strategic buyers, noting that the latter may offer a premium due to envisioned post-acquisition synergies. He advises business owners to enhance value by maintaining clean financial statements, establishing management depth, and diversifying their customer base.
Sellers are urged to understand their company's real value and not rush sales, considering engaging brokers or investment bankers to optimize sale outcomes.
In this episode you’ll understand that proactive asset management and expert valuation are vital for estate planning, especially in light of changing estate tax thresholds. In transactions, due diligence is paramount, and sellers should seek specialized professionals to ensure deals are legally sound, tax-efficient, and reflective of the company's true value.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why the valuation process is so important.
- The team of Advisors you must have on your side.
- The approaches to a business valuation.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Call Lynton! 602 544 3552
lkotzin@jsheld.com
jsheld.com
Preserve Your American Success Story! https://www.axiomcorp.com/
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Lynton:
Lynton has also performed extensive industry and financial analysis and developed valuation models across a broad spectrum of industries. In addition, he has valued intangible assets for purchase price allocation and licensing transactions.
His diverse industry experience includes manufacturing, retail, wholesale, service companies, healthcare, professional practices, and real estate.
Prior to joining J.S. Held with the acquisition of Kotzin Valuation Partners, he was a Director in the Corporate Value Consulting Group of a Big 4 consulting firm.
Lynton has been a guest speaker for the State Bar of Arizona and made numerous presentations and written several articles on business valuation and related topics. He has provided expert testimony in deposition and trial and been admitted as an expert in the field of business valuation, forensic accounting, and economic damages calculation.
If you're a business owner thinking about an exit strategy, consider an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) as a serious option before going the conventional route of outright selling your company. In this episode with Abran Villegas, we talk about how ESOPs offer a multitude of benefits, including potential tax-free sales, as opposed to conventional methods that can tax you up to 25% on the sale of your business. Additionally, ESOPs provide financial flexibility; you can choose your own exit timeline, receiving payments over a span of three to five years, which ensures a smooth transition.
Beyond the financial perks, ESOPs also offer benefits that can be invaluable for someone who has spent years or decades building a company. These plans allow you to preserve the company's culture and legacy, keeping the business local and preventing out-of-state takeovers.
A staggering 75% of business owners regret selling their companies; ESOPs allow you to maintain a connection with the company and its employees, which mitigates that sense of loss. Plus, employees benefit too, becoming more productive co-owners, which makes your company more attractive for talent recruitment and retention.
So, if you're looking to exit your business, an ESOP might just be the ideal way to do it, both for you and your employees.
What You’ll Learn:
- The advantages of ESOPs for the business owner and employees.
- How ESOPs actually work.
- Why planning ahead is so important.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Lazear Capital
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Abran:
Abran Villegas is a native of Albuquerque and has spent the last 23 years in banking. His focus is on finding creative, capital solutions for his clients. Areas of expertise include Solar, Tax Credits, Owner Occupied Real Estate, Contractors and Middle Market Businesses.
He holds a Bachelor’s from Georgetown and an MBA from Thunderbird School of Global Management. He plays in a mariachi and also serves on various nonprofit boards. Charitable work includes the Maricopa Community College Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, Tiempo, Inc. and SW Center for HIV and Aids.
In this interview, I talk to asset protection attorney, Ike Devji, about safeguarding assets, particularly after selling a business. Ike stresses the necessity for business owners and individuals to robustly secure their assets. He introduces a layered asset protection approach, starting with compliance and clean living, progressing to insurance, and finally making use of legal instruments and know-how. Ike's expertise offers listeners a clear roadmap to understand and apply protective strategies. This episode delivers crucial advice for those wishing to ensure their assets' long-term security, whether they've sold a business or are just aiming to shield their wealth.
What You’ll Learn:
-
Insights of asset protection planning and why it is crucial for business owners.
-
The potential risks that business owners face after the sale of their business.
-
The significance of safeguarding the proceeds from the sale of your business in the long term.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Pro Asset Protection
Asset Protection 101
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Ike:
Ike Devji is the Founder and Managing Attorney of Pro Asset Protection and has nearly two decades of legal practice experience devoted exclusively to Asset Protection, Risk Management and Wealth Preservation for some of the most successful people in America, and those who are on their way to being there.
Sandra Etherton is on the show to discuss the importance of protecting intellectual property for business owners. She explains that intellectual property, which includes trademarks, contracts, trade secrets, copyrights, and patents, holds significant value and can greatly impact a company's success and longevity. She highlights the crucial role of trademarks, contracts, trade secrets, copyrights, and patents in safeguarding a company's unique assets and competitive advantage. Sandra emphasizes the value of conducting an IP audit and seeking advice from professionals to optimize intellectual property protection.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to protect your unique business ideas or processes.
- How intellectual property can drive up your business worth.
- The world of intellectual property defenses including patents and trademarks.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
https://www.ethertonlaw.com/
602-681-3331
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Sandra:
Sandra is a registered US patent attorney with over 25 years of expertise identifying and protecting intellectual property (IP) to facilitate business growth. Her practice primarily involves hands-on U.S. patent and trademark preparation and prosecution and coordinating the same in over 70 other countries. Representative technologies include medical devices, agricultural products, watercraft products, electromechanical devices, data processing systems (including banking and telephony), SaaS and mobile apps.
She has extensive experience negotiating and drafting technology-related contracts, including patent and trademark licenses, non-disclosure agreements, and manufacturing agreements, along with providing risk management advice including patentability, freedom-to-operate (clearance), and infringement opinions. She advises corporate management about complex intellectual property matters and explains the risks and alternatives available - without legalese.
If you're feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the uncertain future of your family and business, despite your efforts to protect them, then you are not alone! Despite taking measures like creating a will or implementing security systems, you may still be exposed to risks that could jeopardize your loved ones and your hard-earned business.
My guest today is Richard Keyt, a seasoned estate planning professional. Richard is well-versed in the complexities of securing both businesses and personal estate. His understanding of wills, trusts, and estate planning documents is unmatched. Richard has guided countless entrepreneurs to establish comprehensive plans that have safeguarded the future of their families and business. Time and again, his thoughtful advice has brought peace of mind to his clients, and his knack for navigating the complexity of estate planning makes him a sought-after authority in the field.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why Estate Planning?
- How Wills and Trusts should fit into your exit plan.
- Why it’s important to separate your assets from your personal life.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Call Richard: 480-664-7472
Keyt Law
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Richard:
Attorney Richard C. Keyt prepares Wills & Trusts and estate plans and practices business law, contracts, entity formations, probate law, and nonprofit corporation and charitable organization law. Richard prepares IRS Form 1023’s, the application for tax exemption and assists nonprofit corporations in becomes tax exempt charities. Richard was a lecturer on Arizona LLCs at Arizona Summit Law School during the 2013-2014 and the 2014-2015 school years.
Richard’s father is Richard Keyt, is the founder of KEYTLaw, LLC, and an Arizona attorney. Richard is co-author with his father of a book called “Family Asset Protection, which people say is a great way to learn about Wills, Trusts and estate planning. This free eBook is full of helpful illustrations. Its purpose is to teach people how to protect their most valuable asset – their loved ones – from their death or incapacity.
Richard is licensed to practice law in Arizona and California. He is a former Arizona Certified Public Accountant who worked for a national accounting firm for three years before going to law school.
Do you want to successfully transition out of your business and sell it for a substantial profit? Are you looking for a solution to navigate the complex process of selling your business? Join us as we uncover the key strategies and insights to help business owners over achieve their desired outcome - a seamless and profitable sale of their business. My guest, Jim Afinowich, will be sharing his expertise and proven techniques to ensure that you can smoothly transition into the next phase of your life, while maximizing the value of your business. Get ready to unlock the secret to a lucrative business sale!
What You’ll Learn:
- Elevate your understanding of the intricate process of business selling, equipping you to navigate this course prudently.
- Uncover meta techniques to identify beneficial timings to plan your business exit.
- Develop a knack to enhance your business's desirability in the market, attracting potential buyers.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Call Jim: 480-327-6610
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Jim:
A nationally honored industry leader and a multi-year "Az Business Leaders" selectee by the publishers of AzBusiness magazine, Jim has developed and presented classes for regional and national trade associations for nearly 20 years. He has also provided expert witness services in cases relating to brokerage practices and standards of care.
Jim is experienced in business. He has owned 15 businesses in industries from manufacturing to publishing, foreign trade and aviation (visit our sister company, FBO Sales), having launched multiple businesses domestically and internationally. Jim has employed hundreds of people and, like his clients, experienced the joys and challenges of business ownership.
Jim sold several businesses for himself before starting to sell privately held firms for others. Jim has worked as a mid-market M&A advisor and business broker for over twenty years. His career led to his business philosophy, "Although the type of business may vary the best results for the client always come from the utilization of a proven process, executed completely in a planned and deliberate manner. There are no short cuts.
Jim is a lifelong Arizona resident. His two passions, after family, are business and aviation. He has held advanced ratings for ultra-light aircraft and hang gliders, as well as conventional aircraft.
Have you heard the myths about selling a business? Many business owners fall prey to the common misconceptions surrounding the legal considerations of selling their company. Myth #1: Only large corporations need legal advice when selling. Myth #2: Selling a business is a simple process that can be done quickly. Myth #3: The buyer will take care of all legal paperwork and due diligence. The truth is, proper legal planning is crucial for a successful and lucrative exit. Our guest, Phil Guttilla, will share his expertise on the legal considerations that all business owners should know before selling. Don't fall for the myths - join us to learn the truth.
What You’ll Learn:
- Understand how being proactive in planning can lead to a successful business sale.
- Examine estate planning and tax considerations when transferring business ownership.
- Detect potential challenges and methods to prevent them in M&A activities.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Polsinelli.com
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Phil:
Phil is a deal lawyer. Whether it is a business sale or purchase transaction with a short timeline or a must close financing, he brings practical solutions and creative thinking to get to closing. As a Certified Public Accountant and Chartered Financial Analyst, Phil takes a multidisciplinary approach to serving his clients.
Private equity and strategic acquirors work with Phil for buy-side legal representation because he understands deals in the larger context of his client’s business and he deploys a project management approach to M&A that reduces costs and delivers economies of scale for clients executing roll-ups or growing through serial acquisitions.
Business owners seek out Phil for his experience and dedication to his clients. He and his team work to negotiate the best possible terms. He understands that a business sale is a life-changing event for most business owners that they may only experience once. He draws on his tax and accounting background and over 25 years of experience to guide his clients through the deal process.
Phil delivers what he expects from his team – thought leadership and creative solutions with superior responsiveness. Phil values his clients and builds deep relationships; many of his client relationships go back decades. He is a trusted adviser who strives to help his clients minimize taxes, maximize their business enterprise value and keep the larger picture in focus.
Do you want to secure the highest possible value for your business while also finding the best-suited capital partner? As a business owner looking to transition out of your company, this is a crucial goal. I am here with Lena Dalbey to share with you the solution to achieving this result. By understanding the difference between valuation and transaction when selling your business, you can negotiate a peak valuation and find the right capital partner. Join Lena and I as we delve into the intricacies of these two concepts and equip you with the knowledge necessary to help you have a more successful exit.
What You’ll Learn:
- Become more informed handling company transitions and capital partner collaborations for business expansion.
- Grasp the crucial distinction between valuation and transaction consideration to facilitate the selling process.
- Understand how investment bankers can bolster your business value through strategic planning, open communication, and competitiveness.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
linkbig.net
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Lena:
Lena Dalbey founded LINK in 2019 to bring a unique and differentiated investment & merchant banking firm to the Arizona marketplace. With more than 25 years of investment banking experience, Lena’s expertise was honed at leading global investment banking firms in San Francisco and New York. Lena has served exceptional companies in her native state of Arizona since 2007.
Prior to forming LINK, Lena was a Managing Partner at JDB Capital Partners (“JDB”). During her decade of commitment to JDB, Lena grew the firm from a start-up into one of the most well known and respected investment banking firms in the region. Her focus was senior relationships and extraordinary transaction outcomes for a wide range of middle market clients and companies.
Do you strive to cultivate a thriving organization with significant progress? Are you looking for a way to establish an elite business with substantial growth? If so, this episode with Michael Erath has the solution you need to create a successful enterprise with meaningful advancement. Discover how to develop a top-tier company that experiences significant expansion and fulfillment.
In this episode, Michael uncovers the ironies of the business coaching industry, shares his inspiring journey of building a better business after losing everything, and reveals the five obsessions to help entrepreneurial leaders achieve a meaningful return on life.
What You’ll Learn:
- The five obsessions for business greatness: Great People, Inspiring Purpose, Optimized Playbooks, Culture of Performance, and Growing Profits & Cash Flow.
- How to implement personalized approaches as a Sherpa-like guide to help catapult your business to the next level.
- How to achieve a meaningful return on life without compromising personal well-being and relationships.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
startclimbing@nextlevelgrowth.com
Next Level Growth
The Business Health Checkup
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Michael:
In the first 15 years of his career, Michael took over an $8M family manufacturing business which he grew to $45M in revenue with over 200 employees during his 15 years as President & CEO.
Being tied closely to the housing market and due to a significant betrayal from a business partner who eventually served prison time for embezzlement and fraud, during the financial collapse of 2009 Michael lost it all.
Late in 2010, Michael leveraged all that he had and started a new business. It was during the startup of his new business that Michael was introduced to the book Traction®. In Traction, Michael found many of the same tools he had implemented in the past, but this time as part of a more holistic system that filled in many of the missing gaps he experienced when he had tried the “do-it-yourself” route earlier in his career.
Shortly thereafter, Michael began implementing EOS® as the basic foundation in his new business. With EOS® as the foundation, Michael then used his past experience with other systems to plug the holes that exist in EOS®, layering on strategy and cash management tools from Scaling Up; recruiting and hiring A-Player playbooks from Topgrading; and other advanced business tools he had learned over his career and from his time in YPO. This customized approach allowed him to grow the business rapidly and in 2015 make the Inc. 5000. Running the business on a complete and custom-tailored system gave Michael the entrepreneurial freedom to eventually exit the business and focus on his true passion: Taking all that his entrepreneurial life has given him, sharing it openly and vulnerably, and in doing so giving it all back as a full-time business guide.
Since 2015, Michael has been a record holding Certified EOS Implementer®, a Certified Scaling Up Coach and a Certified Pinnacle Business Guide. As the only business guide in the US to have simultaneously held all three certifications, Michael shares from his vast knowledge as well as his more than 20 years of experience in the trenches of the entrepreneurial world to help his clients bring their dreams to reality. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, Michael guides them in implementing a customized, holistic operating system that can only be done by someone who has lived through it all.
In 2017 Michael wrote about his incredible journey from success, to collapse, to rebuilding based on lessons learned in what has now become an Amazon Best-Seller. His book, RISE: The Reincarnation of an Entrepreneur, is available in print and audio on Amazon.
In this episode of the Founders Guide Post Podcast, Bill Koenig shares his expertise on the process of selling a business. From understanding motivations for selling to the importance of a solid management team, Bill offers valuable insights for first-time sellers.
Bill is the knowledgeable Senior Director of Montminy & Co, who specializes in the world of mergers and acquisitions. Bill's expertise in understanding the crucial factors that determine a business's value, such as recurring revenue and the quality of its management team, makes him an invaluable ally for any entrepreneur looking to sell their company. With his warm and easy-going manner, Bill is the perfect guest to share his insights and help guide business owners on their journey to a successful sale.
What You’ll Learn:
- Delve into the motives behind sellers and how recognizing value-driving forces benefits your business.
- Explore the crucial aspects that contribute to a business's valuation, like dependable revenue and leadership competence.
- Grasp the importance of investment bankers in steering the sales course and attaining the best possible outcomes.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
602-769-4501
Montminy & Co.
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
About Bill
Bill Koenig has over 25 years of diverse financial services experience in the areas of corporate banking; leverage finance; subordinated debt financing; equipment leasing; commercial real estate finance; and both primary and secondary loan syndications and trading. Mr. Koenig has completed over $1.5 billion in both senior and subordinated debt/lease transactions encompassing management led buyouts; M&A international financings; complex commercial real estate; and various structured debt transactions.
Before joining Montminy & Co., Mr. Koenig was the CEO and Director of Northwest Bank where he was responsible for leading the growth and setting the strategic direction of a 3-state, privately owned $500 million asset sized bank. Previously, Mr. Koenig was an Executive Vice President with Western Alliance Bank (NYSE: WAL) in Phoenix, Arizona where he managed various specialty banking groups including corporate finance, leverage finance, equipment leasing, municipal finance, resort finance, and the Bank’s equity investments in several SBIC funds.
Are you weary of trying to figure out the best way to exit your business tax-efficiently and benefit your employees? You could be overlooking the invaluable advantages of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). In this episode, you'll discover how to unlock the powerful potential of ESOPs with little-known tax benefits, the perfect combination of bank loans and seller notes, increased employee motivation and productivity, and the key elements of timing, planning, and culture fit. Equip yourself with the knowledge to conduct ESOP feasibility studies and engage expert advisory teams for seamless execution.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
- Uncover the secret to structuring ESOP sales with bank loans, seller notes, and no employee equity.
- Learn how ESOP-structured companies experience increased employee motivation and productivity.
- Unveil the hidden importance of timing, planning, and culture fit in successful ESOP transactions.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
dgleeman@mboventures.com
(646) 734-2035
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
A successful business exit requires optimization in several key areas, including stability, intrinsic value, and capital efficiency. By focusing on these areas, business owners can maximize their company's value and prepare for a smooth sales process. This involves ensuring a steady stream of revenue, investing in the growth and development of the company, and keeping costs low while maintaining high production quality. By doing so, entrepreneurs can attract a wider range of potential buyers and secure a competitive offer for their business. As Joyce Hrinya addressed in the podcast, to achieve stability in a business, owners should prioritize profitability, consistent growth, and monthly recurring revenue. For intrinsic value, factors like a diversified customer base, long-term contracts, and proprietary products and services add worth to the business. Lastly, capital efficiency can be boosted by minimizing labor costs and capital expenditures while also having a solid management team in place to execute the business's strategic plan.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
- How to master the process of readying businesses for maximum value and smooth transitions.
- Recognizing the significance of enlisting knowledgeable and experienced investment bankers.
- How to achieve financial clarity and eliminate low-profit margin offerings in your product suite.
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Email Joyce!
Acquireretain.com
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
Henry DeSpain is a retirement plan expert who specializes in helping business owners with their retirement planning. He works to maximize tax savings and retirement contributions for individuals and businesses.
Henry has many years of experience in the Valley. He helps clients understand how to plan for their retirement, whether they are selling their business assets or their business stock. He explains the advantages of setting up an Exit Focused Retirement Plan to be able to defer taxes on any income that is generated from the sale of the business.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
-
How can a retirement plan be used to purchase out someone from their ownership in a business?
-
What are the tax savings implications of retirement plans?
-
What is the difference between a defined benefit plan and a cash balance plan?
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Mgks.com
602-944-1515
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
Donald Laughlin is an experienced consultant and author of four books on leadership, strategic planning, operational excellence, and finance and capital planning. He specializes in helping businesses prepare for an exit and manage the two paradoxes of structural alignment and dynamic alignment. Donald Laughlin started Edgy and has discovered that true leadership requires more than complacency. He began to help organizations through the process of change and growth, and developed specialized tools to assist them.
As a CFO, Donald used his expertise to write four books on different aspects of the business world, like leading a company through a capital raise, cash assessment, and strategic planning. Through his consulting work, he realized the importance of leadership in an organization and developed an assessment to help build strong leaders. Despite the current chaos in the world, Donald is helping companies reach their goals and gain new liquid capital.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
- How Do You Prepare a Company for a Capital Raise and What Do You Do Afterwards?
- What Is the Foundation of Leadership and How Do We Build Up That Foundation?
- How Can Business Owners Manage Uncertainty and the New Normal of the Economy?
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
LINKS & RESOURCES:
Email Donald! donald@edgy.us
Preserve Your American Success Story! https://scottsdalefoundersforum.com/
Find Armando on LinkedIn
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
Tabatha Lavoie is a corporate attorney who specializes in helping business owners navigate the complexities of selling their business, from corporate documents and contracts to intellectual property and liens. She often deals with clients who are looking to plan for succession, sell their business, or enter into some other stage of business.
She stresses the importance of having the proper corporate documents and contracts in place when selling a business, such as articles of incorporation, bylaws, shareholder agreements, partnership agreements, operating agreements, and minutes. In addition, she looks for assignable contracts, any potential triggering events, liens, and titles to property. Finally, she looks for any potential problems with intellectual property, such as domain names, telephone numbers, and websites.
What You'll Learn:
-
What happens when a buyer discovers corporate documents are missing when a business is being sold?
-
What potential issues can arise when a business owner has not completed corporate formalities such as annual minutes?
-
How can a business owner ensure they have clear title to assets that they are selling as part of their business?
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
Lavoielawfirm.com
Tabatha@lavoielawfirm.com
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
Ryan Weissmueller founded Fintrepid Solutions with the mission of helping entrepreneurs build and maximize their businesses. Through their process of financial storytelling, Ryan and his team help business owners present their business in the best way possible to buyers. Ryan understands the importance of making a good first impression and helping his clients understand potential risks and opportunities. To maximize the value of a business, Ryan and his team provide guidance on how to make a business more valuable, profitable, and sustainable. With an understanding of the buyer's needs, Ryan and his team work to create a well-rounded story that takes the objections off the table before they're raised. By living sale ready, Ryan and his team help business owners maximize their value and find the perfect strategic fit for the business.
What You’ll Learn:
-
What strategies and processes can be used to make a good first impression during a sale process?
-
What financial storytelling is and how it can be used to support and defend a company's value?
-
What are the risks to consider when a business is undergoing a sale process and how can they be mitigated?
LOVED this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/founders-guide-post/id1648393214
Links & Resources:
www.fintrepidsolutions.com,
Tel (602) 675-7452
email growboldly@fintrepidsolutions.com
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
Heidi Berger has spent years in finance analysis, strategic planning and operations. She specializes in helping companies become more efficient and better at what they do, by identifying, documenting and improving their core processes.
She realized that companies needed to document their processes in order to scale and grow. Heidi created a workshop to help businesses identify and document their core processes. She noticed that customers often pointed out inconsistencies in their experience, and she developed a method to help identify and bridge those gaps. Through her workshops, she found that companies experienced a 1% return on their bottom line, and could also scale and sell their businesses more effectively. She encourages businesses to create systems that are dependent on processes, not people.
What You'll Learn:
- How is it possible to increase a company's bottom line by 1% simply by documenting and implementing business processes?
- How can companies benefit from documenting their processes in order to make their business more system-dependent and less people-dependent?
- What are the different methods of documenting processes, and how do they differ for different departments such as accounting, sales, and operations?
Links & Resources:
Process Optimizer
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
Delilah Panio is the Vice President of US Capital Formation for the Toronto Stock Exchange and TSX Venture Exchange. She travels around the US discussing the options available to high growth companies looking to IPO on a US exchange, in particular, the benefits of going through the Canadian Capital Markets. She explains that the biggest reason to go public on the Canadian market is to maintain control of the company, with only 20% of the company being floated in the public. The Canadian capital markets have been around for centuries and have diversified to include technology, life sciences, and more. Additionally, the Multi Jurisdiction Disclosure System adds the convenience of using the disclosure documents from the Canadian market when applying to the US exchanges.
What You'll Learn:
- What are the different options in North America for growth capital, specifically for US high growth companies?
- What is the value proposition of going public in Canada for US. companies?
- What is the “four Rs” approach to determining if a company should go public?
Links & Resources:
Us.tsx.com
Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn!
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
Jessica Holsapple is a business guide and consultant who helps business owners who are looking to exit. She has hired and trained thousands of people and led elite teams of up to 250 people across the US and abroad. She specializes in helping struggling locations improve their systems, helping business owners find fulfillment in their business, and getting them get a meaningful return on their investment. Through her work, she helps them build elite teams, create the right culture, and optimize their performance. Ultimately, she helps them to achieve their dreams, including a successful exit.
What You'll Learn:
- The importance of culture in the success of a business.
- How the right team can bring a business to the next level.
- What business owners do to ensure they get a meaningful return on their investment.
Links & Resources:
Next Level Growth
Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn!
Preserve Your American Success Story!
Find Armando on LinkedIn
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
When selling your business, if you have charitable goals, tax reduction goals, retirement income goals, family sticking together and next generation goals, listen to this conversation for tidbits to consider that may help you in reaching those goals and have an even greater long term impact on your family and the community at large.
What You'll Learn:
- An overview of the 501c3 organization and what that means for tax benefits.
- How Kimberly helps clients find clarity on where they want to contribute to their community.
- How to set up annual donations rather than donate all at once.
Contact Kimberly by telephone (602) 682-2030 or kkur@azfoundation.org
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
Your family-owned business has challenges that only a family owned business faces. Resolve those challenges before selling or transitioning the company to the next generation.
Listen to this conversation with Leslie Dashew to get a glimpse of her 40 years of insight into navigating family-owned business perils and successes.
What You’ll Learn: • How a parent can set the stage for an adult child to take over.
• What is a family constitution and why it’s important to a family business.
• How to overcome disagreements regarding the future of the business.
Links & Resources:
Aspen Family Business
Lesliedashew.com
You may reach Leslie at Ldashew@gmail.com, or telephone (480) 419-4243.
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
Thinking of selling your business? You owe it to yourself to listen to this conversation with Dan Schweiker about his business exit from China Mist Tea Brands, a company that he and his co-founder sold after 30 years growing the business into an international high end tea company, creating a new category along the way.
You will know Dan’s lessons learned about interviewing and hiring a professional investment banker to sell the business, how a company scrap book and community involvement helped build the brand and helped them sell it, and the importance of having life outside of the business for the day after the sale.
What You’ll Learn: * Dan’s experience with an Investment Banker. * Why Dan decided to sell. * How a “company scrap book” helped China Mist Tea Brands in the selling process.
JOIN THE SCOTTSDALE FOUNDERS FORUM (scottsdalefoundersforum.com)
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
When Selling Your Business, Conversation with John Farr Investment Banker. When you sell, you are up against professional buyers. Get a professional seller on your team. Get Expert help. Listen and learn from John's experience.
Contact John Farr at jfarr@columbiawestcap.com or telephone (480) 664-3949.
JOIN THE SCOTTSDALE FOUNDERS FORUM (scottsdalefoundersforum.com)
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
"Rally the hearts and minds of your team and maximize your business value." --Katina Koller
Your business has challenges, as do all businesses.
Resolve those challenges before selling or transitioning the company to the next generation.
Listen to this conversation with Katina Koller to get a glimpse of her insight into navigating challenges with candor and curiosity to help reach your goals.
JOIN THE SCOTTSDALE FOUNDERS FORUM (scottsdalefoundersforum.com)
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.
On today’s show we have Mike Patterson to talk about considerations when selling your business. Mike Patterson is an Arizona Attorney that specializes in Mergers and Acquisitions.
Making sure that you are able to exit your business with all the chips on the table is crucial. In this episode Mike explains the entire due diligence process that a buyer will take including:
- Are all employee’s getting paid market rate?
- Does this business have any long term commitments to contractors?
- What are the owners personal guaranty’s?
- and a lot more
Understanding the mind of a buyer can help you make adjustments in the company before you sell, which will overall increase the sale price of your business. Ensure that you walk away from your business after building it for so many years with the confidence that your business is in the right hands.
What You'll Learn:
- How to find the right attorney to help you with your exit
- What role an attorney plays in the M&A game
- The engagement you should expect with you attorney
The Founders Guidepost provides conversations with experts to help you, the Founder, have a more successful exit from your business, to help preserve your American Success story.