What's Your Deal? - Insights on Business Acquisitions and Management for Smart Investments

In this episode, Matt sits down with longtime friends Steve and Michele Sullins — two powerhouse restaurateurs who've built, bought, and sold multiple restaurants and retail stores over the past 35 years. Michelle started with a coffee cart in Sedona and grew it into a thriving restaurant empire, while Steve worked his way up from dishwasher to opening restaurants for major resort brands like Hyatt and Loews. Together, they've mastered the balance of systems, leadership, and partnership — both in business and marriage. From promoting employees into management to scaling multiple locations at once, they share how they've built lasting success in one of the toughest industries around. Now, they're taking that experience to Prescott with The Copper Note, their newest concept bringing elevated, scratch-made "world comfort food" to the downtown Prescott area.   Timestamps:  0:00 – Intro and why Steve & Michele chose restaurants in the first place   3:34 – Michele's first restaurant purchase in Sedona   4:25 – How she knew it was time to sell   5:09 – Building a 6–7k sq ft restaurant from scratch   8:10 – Opening restaurants inside major resorts (scale, budgets, staffing)   10:14 – Bringing corporate systems into a mom-and-pop shop   11:46 – Launching a business together (and becoming partners)   13:40 – How they work as a married team without clashing   16:33 – Running multiple restaurants and multiple retail stores at once   17:51 – Their leadership structure and how they build a team   20:13 – Promoting from within vs. hiring outsiders   22:58 – How they train and grow future managers   25:30 – Selling Sedona locations and moving to Prescott   28:02 – Why they bought (not built) the new Prescott location   30:39 – The Copper Note: concept, menu, and "world comfort food"   31:12 – Reusing what works from past successful menus   32:35 – Why location matters more than most buyers realize   34:31 – The lifecycle of a restaurant and when to rebrand   37:16 – Is year one really the "best year" for a restaurant?   39:25 – Their full pre-opening / relaunch process (mock runs, critique, soft open)   44:38 – Who gave them a hand up and shaped how they lead     Resources & Links   Connect with Michele and Steve on Instagram: @thecoppernote    Connect with Matt:    Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com  

Matt shares the origin story behind his career in business brokerage and ownership: growing up with a single mom working seven days a week, taking third-shift janitorial work at 13, and starting his first company at 17. A shop teacher's nudge ("why not start a business doing what you already know?") led to a janitorial company that scaled from one account to 40 employees across New Hampshire and Massachusetts.   That first exit came with hard lessons—especially around reading P&Ls and not letting the business "run" the owner. The sale also revealed a bigger truth Matt has seen for 27 years: buying a good business can change a family's trajectory overnight. Since then he's completed over 800+ deals, evaluated thousands more, and taken ownership stakes in 35+ companies (about 20 active today), partnering with "boots-on-the-ground" operators and stepping in most deeply when there's a fire to put out.   Matt talks balance, rhythm, and family. Ownership gives freedom to choose where to spend time—but responsibility can't be delegated. Matt's vision for Amped Success is simple: turn 27 years of lessons into one-to-many education so buyers and sellers avoid preventable pain and make better, faster decisions.     Timestamps:     02:00 – Early Work Ethic — Single-mom household, third-shift janitor at 13     05:03 – First Company at 17 — Teacher's advice, starting a janitorial business     07:45 – Scaling & Lessons — From 1 account to 40 employees; P&L wake-up call     09:08 – First Exit & Insight — Corporate buyer "buys a job"; why buying works     10:45 – 27 Years Brokering — 800+ transactions, 35+ ownerships, 20 active     13:50 – What Brokers Actually Do — Valuation, financeability, structure, licenses     17:20 – One-to-Many Vision — Why Amped Success exists     20:50 – Partnership Model — Boots-on-the-ground operators, when Matt dives in     26:30 – Hardest Seasons — 2008–10 crash, inventory vanishing mid-deal     29:30 – Emotions in a Deal — Families, kids on payroll, employment agreements     33:50 – Favorite Win — From no cash to multi-business millionaires in ~10 years     36:50 – Balance & Rhythm — Boundaries, identity, responsibility vs. authority     46:55 – Why Amped — Giving back; education that prevents costly mistakes     50:00 – Mentors & Inflection Points — Teachers, Tony Robbins, sobriety decision     Resources & Links     Connect with Matt:    Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com  

Today we welcome Dana De Vito, a longtime business owner, franchise operator, and co-founder of Elite Performance Associates. From owning Jack in the Box and Scooter's Coffee franchises to coaching business leaders, Dana shares his insights on responsible growth, the difference between consulting and coaching, and why defining a desired end statematters more than tactics. This conversation digs into lessons learned from franchising, building culture, and balancing ambition with life outside of business.     Timestamps:    00:01 – Intro & welcome to the show     00:32 – Meet Dana De Vito: from teacher-track to consulting     03:02 – Moving to Prescott & buying Jack in the Box franchises     04:55 – Lessons from fast food ownership & team development     06:03 – The ups and downs of franchising relationships     07:36 – Why Scooter's Coffee: leadership culture & systems     10:10 – Consulting vs. coaching: the real difference     13:38 – Why some owners act—and others never do     18:14 – Crisis survival: losing 97% of revenue & bouncing back     20:50 – Expanding reach: writing books & people-first profits     24:30 – Speed kills: when growth gets ahead of control     27:48 – Start with desired end state, not tactics     28:50 – Matt's personal lesson: ambition vs. family balance     38:15 – Who believed in Dana: lessons from his parents     43:33 – Closing thoughts & how to connect with Dana     Resources & Links   Connect with Dana:    Instagram: @dana_devito   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-devito/   eliteperformanceassociates.com   Dana@eliteperformanceassociates.com     Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess 📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In part two of our series on preparing your business for sale, Matt is once again joined by Lindsay Denton. Together they dive deep into the often-overlooked details that can make or break a deal: commingled entities, lease negotiations with landlords, environmental and maintenance concerns, and the importance of correctly titled assets. Packed with real-world stories, hard-earned lessons, and practical strategies, this conversation is a must-listen for business owners looking to maximize their exit value — and for buyers who want to understand the hidden risks behind the numbers.     2:25 – Preparing for sale: beyond financials into entity structures     3:45 – The problem with commingled entities (and how it kills deals)     7:20 – Real-life examples: when businesses can't be valued or financed     10:00 – How separation delays, amendments, and CPA involvement stall deals     12:00 – The effects of messy financials and tax returns     16:05 – Landlord dynamics: renewals, greed, and lease assignments     19:10 – How one owner lost a million-dollar asset to a landlord decision     21:00 – Securing leases: timing, documentation, and buyer confidence     25:15 – Environmental concerns, site visits, and being "guest ready"     26:50 – First impressions matter: maintenance, lighting, and presentation     29:40 – Titling of assets: vehicles, real estate, and estate issues     32:30 – Costly mistakes when titles aren't transferred properly     34:30 – Education and preparation: why the little things matter most     37:00 – Closing thoughts and preview of the buyer-preparation series       Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess 📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Part 1 of a two-episode series on preparing your business for sale. Today, Matt is joined by Lindsay Denton (Financing Specialist at WCI Business Brokers) to break down what sellers must have dialed in before they list.   Timestamps:  1:00 – Why seller preparation matters   3:10 – Business financing vs. home financing   5:50 – The importance of organized financials   7:55 – Real-world examples of deals derailed   15:10 – When sellers change their minds mid-process   19:30 – Hidden obligations & underlying debt issues   23:15 – Momentum: keeping deals moving forward   26:30 – Seasonality, stale financials & timing mistakes   32:30 – P&L vs. tax return mismatches   36:45 – Inventory adjustments & self-induced problems   41:00 – Add-backs 101: what counts and what doesn't   46:00 – Non-bankable expenses (ads, trade shows, etc.)   48:50 – Off-books income & why it destroys value   51:30 – Gratitude question & Lindsay's story     Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess 📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with Cristian Cruz, a former Miami firefighter who walked away from a secure career and pension to pursue entrepreneurship and business ownership. Cristian shares his bold decision to leave behind stability for opportunity, his first steps into startups, and why he's now focused on buying an established business instead of building from scratch. This candid conversation dives into risk, motivation, family legacy, and how Cristian is approaching his first acquisition with patience, direction, and clarity. If you've ever wondered what it takes to leave the safety of a W2 job and step into the uncertain but rewarding world of business ownership, you'll find inspiration and practical lessons here.   Timestamps 0:16 – Introducing guest Cristian Cruz and his background   1:49 – Becoming a Miami firefighter at 21 and "winning the lottery" career   4:02 – Starting his first business in credit repair   5:26 – Jumping from a secure W2 to entrepreneurship   6:32 – Understanding risk: firefighting vs. business ownership   8:10 – Hitting the career ceiling and choosing entrepreneurship instead   10:00 – Why Cristian shifted from startups to buying an existing business   12:14 – The overwhelm of too much information when starting the search   13:43 – Discovering the cleaning industry as a realistic acquisition target   14:50 – Matt explains the Buyer's Acquisition Formula   16:46 – Learning to compress timelines by asking questions and seeking mentors   18:32 – Realizing acquisitions take longer than expected   20:00 – Avoiding deadline pressure and rushed decisions   21:47 – How Cristian is sustaining himself financially during the search   23:29 – Different circumstances: supporting a family vs. pursuing solo   24:50 – Why Cristian prefers direct outreach over online business listings   28:56 – Stacking capital and preparing for a larger acquisition   30:10 – Matt shares his roots in the janitorial industry and how it led to brokerage   31:20 – The role of family and parents' sacrifices in Cristian's motivation   36:40 – Biggest lesson learned: not every "guru" is worth listening to   38:34 – Compressing time by learning from others' mistakes     Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess 📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com  

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with longtime client and friend Chad Cook—a true serial entrepreneur who has started, grown, and sold 12 businesses over the last 34 years. From his humble beginnings running a paper route and selling donuts to owning large-scale Family Fun Centers and a statewide Dippin' Dots distribution business, Chad shares the real stories behind his business ventures, including the wins, the lessons, and the near-bankrupt moments. Matt and Chad discuss the strategic mindset required to build sellable businesses, the importance of family support and faith, and how Chad's ability to maintain calm and rhythm through both recession and rapid growth has led to a fulfilling life—personally and professionally. Whether you're an aspiring business owner or seasoned operator, Chad's story is a blueprint for creating legacy, freedom, and peace through entrepreneurship.   00:16 – Meet Chad Cook: 12 businesses, 34 years, and one donut-selling paper route   01:13 – How Chad built trust and relationships with buyers over the years   02:51 – Why Chad started his first business without a safety net   03:41 – Navigating weekends and family time in a Family Fun Center business   04:45 – A rundown of Chad's business ventures over the decades   06:49 – Building and operating Castle Golf and Freedom Station   08:21 – Making big financial commitments in capital-heavy businesses   10:40 – What is a game route business and why it's nearly passive   12:17 – Why game routes are one of the most passive models Chad's found   13:15 – Involving the kids: How Chad built family into his businesses   14:40 – Strategy or opportunity? How Chad chose his businesses   18:20 – Designing businesses to be sellable assets   19:18 – How Chad and Brenda decide when it's time to sell   20:50 – Why selling a business takes years—not months   24:38 – Treating businesses like kids: Chad's approach to growth and exits   25:44 – The importance of relationships in business and family   27:41 – Chad's toughest business challenge: The Great Recession   30:40 – Surviving on credit cards—and the decision to go debt-free   33:15 – How income-producing debt differs from consumer debt   35:50 – Selling a business to his son—and watching him scale it fast   39:00 – Balance or rhythm? Chad's approach to work-life integration   44:01 – Who gave Chad a hand up? The mentors and loved ones who believed in him       Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess 📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler sits down with David Davis—an academic-turned-entrepreneur who transitioned from a PhD and professorship in hospitality to launching not one, but three service-based businesses. David shares his real-world startup journey, including the shift away from higher ed, the grit it took to build Fuse Topline Solutions, Boundless Hospitality, and a commercial laundry operation, and the financial realities of building a business from scratch. This conversation is packed with wisdom on balancing family and business, managing investor relationships, and knowing when to pivot.      Timestamps:    00:01 – Introduction to David Davis and his extensive academic background   01:13 – David's early struggle with college and how it led him into hospitality   03:47 – Why academia lost its appeal and why he transitioned out   06:26 – The organic beginning of his first business   11:17 – How he manages his business today and its current success   12:13 – The second startup and the impact of economic shifts   14:46 – Why he pivoted into commercial laundry—and what makes the model viable   16:46 – Lessons learned from launching multiple startups   21:39 – What a realistic startup phase looks like   23:34 – The importance of involving your spouse and lessons from personal relationships   26:48 – Creating a family business dynamic and including his wife in key decisions   30:27 – His 12-month goals: profitability, expansion to Tulsa, and a scalable vision   33:20 – Why he's not chasing ambition but rather building resilience into his businesses   35:48 – His relationship with his investor and what a "strategic investor" really means   38:52 – Why banks weren't the answer and what he learned about funding   39:45 – Balancing time, family, and leadership—why intentionality matters   42:03 – Defining purpose and building accountability into your work   43:17 – Who helped him get here: from his parents to professors, bosses, and peers   47:20 – Final thoughts and appreciation for the power of team support   Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess 📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

What happens when a former Microsoft exec trades the corporate fast track for small business ownership? In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt sits down with long-time friend and client Tim Lewis to explore his journey from tech giant to serial entrepreneur. Tim shares how he left a thriving career at Microsoft, launched a consulting firm, built and scaled a web design agency using international talent, and ultimately found financial freedom by acquiring a niche e-commerce business serving veterans and military families.     Timestamps:  02:10 – Early career at Microsoft and discovering business ownership   05:00 – Leaving corporate life for Arizona and small business consulting   05:50 – Launching a web design agency without knowing how to code   08:15 – Scaling using offshore talent and building a global team   11:30 – Acquiring a business to grow fast   13:00 – Burnout, customer service issues, and quality-of-life tradeoffs   16:00 – Selling the web company and taking time off   17:00 – Evaluating businesses and what made him say no   19:30 – Buying the military decal business and scaling it   21:00 – Why reviews and customer service mattered more than tech   24:10 – Using automation and AI to streamline production   25:44 – Starting vs. buying a business: which is better?   27:50 – Advice on higher education and surviving AI's impact   30:00 – Work-life balance, flexible hours, and redefining success   34:40 – Who helped him most in his career   38:00 – His #1 rule for success: say yes and figure it out later   Resources & Links   Military Grapics - https://militarygraphics.com   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess 📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode, Matt talks with Michael Yarnes about how he and his wife went from waiting tables to managing 750 rental units and owning 27 of their own. They cover starting during the 2008 crash, building a property management company with high standards, mentoring young entrepreneurs, and finding balance as a business-owning couple. A real conversation on grit, systems, and staying grounded while scaling.   Timestamps:    00:28 - Meet Michael Yarnes     4:35 – First rental property   8:25 – Establishing duplication    12:39 - Starting in property managemnt    14:08 – Client standards and turning down business   25:09 – Mentoring young entrepreneurs   30:00 – Climbing gyms and real estate ownership   38:15 – Hiring an operator and stepping into CEO role   40:00 – The Launch Pad and youth mentorship   43:30 – Navigating marriage and business together   47:00 – People who gave him a hand up   Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess 📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this powerful follow-up episode, Dr. Mark Costes returns to unpack what happens when overachievers can't stop grinding—even when they've already "made it." Matt and Mark dive deep into the danger of moving the goalpost, why burnout is often disguised as ambition, and how business owners can either scale or stall based on their ability to let go. From lessons learned in private equity boardrooms to the truth behind blue-collar business rollups, this conversation blends hard-won wisdom with actionable insight. If you're building, buying, or thinking about exiting a business—this episode is for you.   Timestamps:  00:18 – Recap of Part 1 & Self-Reflection as a Superpower   01:50 – Seasons of Business and Life: When to Grind vs. When to Let Go   03:50 – Story: The Business Owner Who Couldn't Stop (Even on His Deathbed)   05:31 – The Trap of Moving the Goalpost   06:40 – Why High Achievers Fear Reaching the Finish Line   09:37 – Grinding vs. Doing the Hard Mental Work   10:56 – Single Point of Failure: Why It Hurts Business Value   12:15 – Two Big Mistakes Owners Make Before Selling   14:26 – What Businesses Get the Highest Valuations   16:03 – Private Equity Boardrooms & the Scale Game   18:17 – Mike Rowe, Blue Collar Wealth & Trade-Based Rollups   20:00 – Matt's Personal Journey: From No Degree to Business Owner   22:20 – The Power of Real Estate & Organic Growth   22:50 – What's Next for AMPED Success   25:20 – Scaling Beyond Coaching Through Community & Courses   27:10 – Passing It On: Who Helped You Along the Way   28:24 – Where to Find Matt & Dr. Costes Online     Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   Connect with Dr. Mark Costes  Instagram @drmarkcostes 📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com  

Description: In this powerful first part of a two-part series, Matt sits down with Dr. Mark Costes—dentist, entrepreneur, and founder of the Dental Success Institute and Dental Success Network. Mark shares the raw and inspiring journey from starting a small practice in Prescott Valley, Arizona to owning 16 dental offices. But this isn't just a success story—it's also a cautionary tale about burnout, loss of balance, and the wake-up call that changed everything.   You'll hear how Mark rebuilt his life and business after reaching his financial goals but feeling unfulfilled. He dives into the systems he created to regain health, family connection, and purpose—including his Four Futures framework that evaluates success beyond just the bottom line.   Whether you're a entrepreneur, or someone chasing success, this episode delivers real, practical insight about scaling, failing, and ultimately finding alignment.   Tune in next week for Part 2, where we go deeper into leadership, systems, and sustainable business growth.    Timestamps:    00:15 - Meet Dr. Mark Costes and His Journey from Dentist to Business Leader   01:55 - Building a Life in Prescott and Powerful Local Connections   03:26 - Reflecting on Family, Fatherhood, and Entrepreneurial Growth   05:00 - Mark's Start in Dentistry and Buying His First Practice   06:04 - Why He Chose Prescott Valley and the Strategy Behind It   06:30 - Scaling to 6 Practices and the Cracks That Emerged   07:15 - Losing Key People and Realizing He Wasn't Systemized   10:00 - From 6 to 16 Practices: What Worked and What Didn't   10:20 - Launching the Podcast and Building the Dental Success Empire   11:00 - Stats and Reach of Mark's Podcast After 10 Years   13:58 - Mark's First Business: Tacos, Cheeseburgers & an MBA   17:15 - Learning from Mistakes and Collapsing Time for Others   18:35 - Entrepreneurship, Burnout, and the Myth of Balance   20:00 - Hitting Financial Goals and Still Feeling Empty   21:45 - The Four Futures: Mind, Meaning, Muscle, and Money and How to Measure and Improve Each Quadrant   25:23 - Knowing When You're Out of Alignment and Resetting   26:50 - Outro and What's Coming in Part 2   Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   Connect with Dr. Mark Costes  Instagram @drmarkcostes 📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this powerful episode, Matt sits down with longtime friend and business partner Jay Koller to unpack one of the most dramatic comeback stories in business ownership. Jay shares how he acquired Vision Collective — a high-stakes event production company — in late 2019, only to watch the entire industry collapse months later as COVID made live events illegal overnight. What follows is a raw and inspiring look at survival, leadership, and the power of company culture. Jay opens up about losing over $4 million in business in a single week, the emotional weight of leading a team through crisis, and the creative pivots — from holographic graduations to trucking logistics — that kept Vision Collective alive. He also shares how their values-first culture not only brought employees back, but turned key team members into owners and helped the business exceed its $10M goal in under five years. If you've ever questioned whether you have what it takes to weather the storms of entrepreneurship, this one's for you.   Timestamps: [0:01] – Matt introduces guest Jay Kohler and their partnership     [2:50] – Jay's background in entertainment and theater     [4:01] – How Jay approached and acquired VX3 (roll-up acquisition)      [8:00] – COVID hits: $4M in lost events and a full business shutdown     [15:30] – SBA loan pressure and building an ownership group     [17:31] – Survival mode: pivoting into virtual events and cloud production     [23:45] – Pivoting into trucking and creative partnerships     [23:23] – Hosting concerts, benefit events and holographic graduations during COVID     [31:05] – Free rent, lender negotiations, and strategic financial moves     [35:00] – Jay's emotional burden as a leader during crisis     [41:15] – Vision Collective hits and exceeds the $10M goal     [42:23] – Jay's plan to strengthen the company for the future     [44:35] – Succession planning: giving ownership to key employees     [48:09] – Reflections on those who supported him during adversity     [50:15] – Jay's first business: burrito sales at 15 after crashing a car     [56:00] – Final reflections on passion, people, and showing up for your work         Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Today, I'm flying solo to walk through a question I get all the time:   "Should I leave my job and become a business owner?"   Or…   "Can I keep my W-2 job and run a business on the side?"   This episode is an honest gut-check — not just to motivate you, but to help you avoid buying a business that might not fit your lifestyle, income needs, or stress threshold.   Key Insights from the Episode   ✅ Being Self-Directed Is Non-Negotiable When you're the owner, the buck stops with you. If you can't manage yourself or push through without someone else setting your goals, business ownership might not be the right next step.     ✅ Business Owners Work Hard — in a Different Way You may already work hard in your W-2 job, but as an owner, it's different. You don't just put in hours — you pull the right levers at the right time. You're responsible for direction, results, and outcomes.     ✅ Know What You Need to Earn — Not Just What You Want to Earn A business has to meet your income needs. Many buyers don't actually know their minimum income requirements. Without clarity, you risk buying a business that can't sustain your life.     ✅ Financial Ability Goes Beyond the Down Payment Down payment is just step one. You'll also need post-closing liquidity, working capital, and a plan for rainy days. Too many people buy businesses they can't afford to weather for more than a few months.     ✅ You Can't Delegate Responsibility You can delegate tasks — but if something breaks, you're still on the hook. Stress doesn't disappear in business ownership; it just shows up differently than in a corporate job.     ✅ Family Support Is a Game-Changer If your family isn't behind you, business ownership will be a much harder path. You need people in your corner when the unexpected hits — and it will hit.     ✅ Management and Financial Skills Are Essential You don't need to be a CPA or MBA, but you do need to understand your financials and manage people effectively. If you've never done that before, get help or get educated — before you close.     Final Thought   You don't need to be perfect. You don't need to have it all figured out. But you do need to know what you're stepping into. This episode is meant to help you determine if business ownership aligns with your life, values, and capacity — before you make a move you regret.     🎓 This Episode is an Excerpt from an Upcoming Course   This bonus episode is a sneak peek from a full course launching in the next few weeks! If you want to go deeper — and learn how to buy the right business for you — email us at admin@ampedsuccess.com and we'll get you on the early interest list.   Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In Part 2 of this two-part story, Matt returns with Sarah Rainwater to unpack how a struggling assisted living facility—purchased just before COVID—was transformed into a thriving, stable business. This episode covers the power of persistence, smart partnerships, creative deal structuring, and the invaluable impact of boots-on-the-ground leadership. You'll also hear how one employee's relentless commitment led to her becoming an owner. If you're exploring semi-absentee ownership or looking to build strong business partnerships, this episode is packed with actionable insight.   Timestamps   [0:15] – Matt introduces Sarah Rainwater, who hosts this episode, and the focus on a business turnaround story   [1:02] – Recap of Part 1: COVID, partner departure, and survival mode   [4:35] – The importance of boots-on-the-ground leadership and how Matt stepped in   [9:55] – Operating partner files bankruptcy; Matt begins restructuring the ownership   [12:10] – Introduction of new partners and creative partnership structure   [17:00] – New partners bring leadership, remodel the facility, and raise care standards   [24:55] – Business status in 2025: stabilized, thriving, and nearly full occupancy   [27:00] – Key takeaways: partnerships, presence, capital, and communication   [36:00] – Emotional conclusion: Matt gifts ownership to the loyal long-term manager   [38:50] – Final reflections on resilience, leadership, and team success   Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

In this episode of What's Your Deal?, Matt Uhler takes the guest seat as his business partner, Sarah Rainwater, hosts a revealing conversation about one of the toughest deals he's ever faced—an assisted living facility bought just months before the pandemic hit. With a proven track record, experienced staff, and a strong ROI projection, it looked perfect on paper. But then everything changed. From key partner exits to devastating COVID losses and financial restructuring, this story unpacks the brutal truth about semi-absentee ownership, partner responsibilities, and how even the best deals can be stress-tested. This is Part 1 of a two-part series, showing how deep knowledge, leadership, and relentless problem-solving can turn a struggling business around.   [0:01] – Intro – Matt introduces the show and the unique format for this episode   [2:30] – Overview of the assisted living facility deal, including purchase date and initial setup   [6:40] – Breakdown of financials: business vs. real estate, SBA loan, operating capital, and ROI   [8:20] – Discussion of why this deal looked solid and was considered a "Deal"   [10:44] – Early red flags with the operating partner and her eventual resignation   [14:30] – Transition plan post-resignation – assistant manager and advisory team step up   [18:27] – COVID hits hard – staffing, resident care issues, and facility lockdown   [20:45] – Matt becomes more involved – from absentee to actively managing weekly   [23:45] – Creative problem solving: infrastructure issues and operational grit   [28:30] – Interest rates spike, further financial strain on the business   [29:50] – Original operating partner files bankruptcy – impact on loan and technical default   [33:15] – Matt negotiates limited guarantor role with lender to keep business afloat   [37:00] – Purchase of the bankrupt partner's interest from the court   [40:26] – Timeline recap: 2.5 years of loss, turning the corner in Spring 2024   [42:25] – Why Matt didn't give up – the importance of reps, resilience, and responsibility   [46:30] – Closing thoughts – Part 1 ends with a transition to the success story in Part 2   Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com

Today, I'm flying solo to address one of the biggest questions I get as a broker and educator: "Why buy a business when you can just start one?"   At first glance, starting a business seems cheaper and more exciting — but from experience, I've found that buying is almost always the smarter play. Less risk, faster results, and more predictable income. In this bonus episode, I'll walk you through the real reasons why buying often beats starting.   Key Insights from the Episode   ✅ Financial History Creates Predictability When you buy a business, you can (and should) look at 3–5 years of financial history. That lets you see how stable the business is and forecast what to expect — unlike a startup, where nothing is proven yet.   ✅ Trained Staff and Existing Customers = Immediate Revenue A running business has trained employees and customers on day one. You're stepping into something already working. Starting from scratch means hiring, training, and finding customers — all of which delay profitability.   ✅ Established Systems and Location Advantage Businesses come with processes (a recipe) — from opening and closing to customer service — and often locations that are already generating revenue. Even if the location isn't perfect, you're not starting from zero.   ✅ Financeability Makes Buying Smarter Most buyers use financing. Buying a business means buying an income-producing asset, which lenders often support. Starting from scratch means using cash or borrowing for something unproven — much riskier.   ✅ Instant Revenue vs. Uncertainty When you buy right, you make money the day after closing because the business is already running. When you start a business, you don't know when the first dollar will arrive.   ✅ Saleable Asset Adds to Net Worth An existing business, even if not liquid, is a saleable asset — building your wealth over time.   Final Thought Buying a business, if done right, it's often the faster, smarter, and more reliable path to success. Starting from scratch is exciting — but buying gives you a huge head start and mitigates risk.   🎓 This Episode is an Excerpt from an Upcoming Course This bonus episode is a sneak peek from a full course we'll be launching in just a few weeks! If you're interested in going deeper into this subject learning everything you need to confidently buy the right business for YOU, email us at admin@ampedsuccess.com and we'll make sure you're on the early interest list.   Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com  

In this third and final installment of our Combat Sports x Business crossover series, Matt and 10x Martial Arts Hall of Famer John Potenza dig into "the event"—the moment when preparation meets pressure. John shares real-world strategies on how elite fighters (and business owners) manage high-stakes situations, recognize the right opportunities, stay calm under fire, and know when it's time to push forward—or walk away.   Episode Timestamps:   [0:15] – Intro to John Potenza & Series Recap   [2:35] – Preparing for "The Event" — How Fighters (and Business Owners) Get Ready   [4:50] – Managing the Mental Fight: Excitement, Fear, and Pressure   [8:55] – Base Hits vs. Swinging for the Fences (Choosing Manageable Risk)   [9:42] – Choosing fights wisely. Building a Career: Why the Early Wins Matter   [11:12] – Embracing risks   [13:30] – Playing checkers or chess   [15:45] – Understanding Your Opponent   [17:00] – The Importance of Rest and Recovery Before a Big Event   [20:15] – Knowing When to Take (or Walk Away From) an Opportunity   [23:00] – Managing Energy and Staying Calm During the Event   [24:55] – How to Handle Anger Without Losing Control   [29:00] – The Power of Focus: Story of Winning a Fight After Being in Over Your Head, Relying on Strategy   [35:06] – Learning from Adversity: Why Losses Make You Stronger   [36:15] – How to Move On from Defeat Without Letting It Define You   [39:15] – When It's Time to Walk Away — From a Fight or a Career   [43:00] – Why Coaching and Mentorship Are Critical for Success   Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com     Connect with John:    Facebook     Facebook Freedom Ranch Farm Animal Sanctuary     https://www.facebook.com/share/15PZR5TZhR/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Facebook John Potenza     https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ygg5ZnX5J/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Facebook Average Joes MMA     https://www.facebook.com/share/16XzPtUhKH/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Facebook Old School Grappling Catch Wrestling Association     https://www.facebook.com/share/1GFBcqkzAy/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Instagram Average Joes MMA     https://www.instagram.com/average_joes_mma?igsh=MW92ZmJidTRkNXNrcA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr  

In this powerful second installment of the 3-part series, Matt and John Potenza dive into the mental side of both combat sports and business. With 45 years of martial arts experience and 10 Hall of Fame inductions, John has battled fear, overconfidence, and high-stakes pressure—both in the cage and as a business owner. This episode is all about mindset. From managing paralyzing fear and anger to building real confidence through preparation and reps, John breaks down what it takes to stay mentally strong when everything is on the line. Matt connects these lessons directly to the world of entrepreneurship, highlighting how breathing, backup plans, coachability, and courage are just as critical in business as they are in the ring. Timestamps:   [0:17] – Intro to Part 2: Why mindset matters in business and combat   [2:00] – Mental game in a fight   [2:45] – Fear can be a good thing. It keeps you alive and keeps you sharp. The key is to channel fear into preparation and confidence   [6:39] – Channeling the fear of failure into confidence   [8:35] – John's story of overconfidence, ego, and losing a match   [10:40] – Why fear is necessary for sharpness and growth   [12:50] – What to do when fear becomes paralyzing   [16:00] – Reps, reps, reps: building confidence in high-pressure situations   [18:00] – Why anger kills performance   [20:30] – How to deal with aggressive energy   [22:00] – Breathing: a fighter's secret weapon for clarity   [24:15] – Difference between courage and confidence   [26:20] – Preparation is key   [30:18] – Getting inside the fighter's mind   [32:45] – Coaching yourself through fear   [37:30] – Knowing when it's time to walk away   [39:45] – John's journey from competitor to coach   [42:40] – Freedom Ranch: rescuing animals, restoring peace   Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com     Connect with John:    Facebook     Facebook Freedom Ranch Farm Animal Sanctuary   https://www.facebook.com/share/15PZR5TZhR/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Facebook John Potenza   https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ygg5ZnX5J/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Facebook Average Joes MMA   https://www.facebook.com/share/16XzPtUhKH/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Facebook Old School Grappling Catch Wrestling Association   https://www.facebook.com/share/1GFBcqkzAy/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Instagram Average Joes MMA   https://www.instagram.com/average_joes_mma?igsh=MW92ZmJidTRkNXNrcA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr    

In this first episode of a 3-part series, Matt dives into the unexpected but powerful parallels between preparing for combat sports and preparing for business. His guest, John Potenza, is a 10-time Martial Arts Hall of Fame inductee with 45 years of experience, multiple world titles, and a long history of coaching elite fighters. But beyond his physical credentials, John brings something every entrepreneur needs: mental discipline, adaptability, and leadership under pressure. In this episode, they break down how success in both arenas—combat and business—comes down to how you prepare. From creating backup plans (A, B, and C) to staying calm under pressure, to knowing when to walk away from a fight (or deal), the principles are strikingly similar. Whether you're in the ring or the boardroom, the lessons here will help you get ready to win. Timestamps: [0:16] – Intro to John Potenza: 45 years of combat experience & business ownership   [4:20] – Childhood inspiration: backyard fights & DIY training   [4:55] – Early obsession and formal martial arts training begins   [9:45] – From two mats and $800 to multiple schools & world titles   [11:45] – Managing fighters: leadership, honor, and real mentorship   [14:00] – Pushing yourself to improve—and why someone wants to fight   [17:20] – Fighting for self-perfection (and how that compares to business)   [19:00] – Business vs. fighting: learning to take a hit and recover fast   [20:40] – A/B/C plans: muscle memory in the ring = backup plans in business   [23:25] – A/B/Cs in business: adapting fast when things go sideways   [25:10] – Taking on measured risks in both fighting and business   [29:00] – Why good coaches say NO: protecting your team from the wrong fight   [35:00] – It's a team sport: how real fighters (and business owners) build support   [39:20] – Coachability and mental discipline: the foundation of real growth   [43:20] – Visualization, repetition, and training to win     Resources & Links   Want to be a guest on the show, or have a deal that you would like for us to evaluate? Apply here   Follow Us on Social Media   Instagram: @AmpedSuccess   LinkedIn: Amped Success   Tiktok:  @Ampedsuccess   YouTube: @AmpedSuccess   📧 Contact Us: For inquiries, reach out at admin@ampedsuccess.com     Connect with John:    Facebook     Facebook Freedom Ranch Farm Animal Sanctuary https://www.facebook.com/share/15PZR5TZhR/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Facebook John Potenza https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ygg5ZnX5J/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Facebook Average Joes MMA https://www.facebook.com/share/16XzPtUhKH/?mibextid=wwXIfr       Facebook Old School Grappling Catch Wrestling Association https://www.facebook.com/share/1GFBcqkzAy/?mibextid=wwXIfr     Instagram     Instagram Average Joes MMA https://www.instagram.com/average_joes_mma?igsh=MW92ZmJidTRkNXNrcA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr