In this Business Breakdown Live episode, Brad and I sit down with the incredible Jackie Hirsch, a veteran business broker who’s seen hundreds of deals go right—and plenty go wrong.

We dive deep into one of the most under-discussed but critical topics in business: integrity. Whether you’re buying, selling, or partnering, Jackie shares how to recognize red flags early, trust your intuition when something feels off, and protect yourself with data and due diligence.

We swap wild stories—from fake bank statements and shady buyers to deals saved by gut instinct—and break down the fine line between taking a risk and ignoring your better judgment.

Jackie also shares her best insider tips for first-time buyers and sellers: how long deals really take, what to look for in an attorney, and why preparation is everything.

Key Takeaways:

- Integrity over income. No amount of money is worth compromising your values.

- Trust your intuition. If something feels off—even without data—it probably is.

- Back it up with data. Gut feelings matter, but always verify through research and documents.

- Beware of fake funding. Confirm proof of funds directly with a lender before wasting time.

- Preparation wins deals. Show up with your bio, financials, and a clear understanding of your experience.

- Find the right legal help. Work with attorneys who specialize in business transactions, not generalists.

- Play the long game. You’re not just closing deals—you’re building a reputation and lifelong relationships.

Final thought:Business moves fast, but integrity lasts forever. Trust your instincts, do your homework, and remember—a deal that doesn’t feel right is one you don’t need to chase.

👉 Stop playing small, book a call! Link in bio 👉 For more information visit https://www.austinlinney.com/ 👉 The @constructyourlifepodcast is available on ALL platforms More Resources: Discover Proactive Operators at https://www.proactiveoperators.com/. We’re not just coaches—we’re operators and investors with real skin in the game. Our battle-tested strategies come straight from our own businesses. No theory, just execution.No theory, just real execution. Book a call and let’s make things happen! #MINDSETPODCAST #BUSINESSPODCAST #REALESTATEPODCAST Powered by https://www.podcastproducer.com/