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Buying a business is an amazing path for many successful entrepreneurs. Learn how to buy a business from the entrepreneurs who have already done it. 2x per week: stories, insights, & valuable advice about acquisition entrepreneurship. Hosted by Will Smith, who is on his own path to acquire a business.
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Also on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@AcquiringMinds
Sign up for episode summaries at:
https://acquiringminds.co
349 Episodes
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Register for the webinar:Should You Buy a Business? A Live Panel with Lab Members - Wed Apr 23rd - https://bit.ly/3EBvXvNJoe Ziolkowski found the deal of a lifetime — a $10m manufacturing business — by expanding his filters on BizBuySell.Topics in Joe’s interview:Investing with a friend in real estateBacking out of a Mr. Rooter dealAcquiring a restoration businessDealing with insurance in restorationMaking a bad operations hireSelling the business at a profit after 6 monthsAcquiring a wood veneer manufacturing companyGetting a great deal on both businessesSeller’s daughter staying on as VPWhy it’s impossible to start a wood veneer businessReferences and how to contact Joe:LinkedInjoe@woodlandface.comWoodland FaceWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinar:Licenses & Regulatory Issues in Acquisitions - Thu April 17th - https://bit.ly/4i7vsY5With 300 employees across 5 companies, the holdco that Chris Fredericks is building has an uncommon feature at its core.Topics in Chris’s interview:What is an Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)?Finding purpose and meaning at workConcept of dignity at workWhat ESOP employees do and don’t vote onUsing an internal podcast to communicate about employee ownershipMitigating risks in ESOPsEmployee reactions to being acquiredSelling employees on the ESOP conceptHis role as investor, not operatorKeeping a bad hire for too longReferences and how to contact Chris:LinkedInEmpowered VenturesThe Empowered Owners PodcastThe Great Game of BusinessGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinar:Licenses & Regulatory Issues in Acquisitions - Thu April 17th - https://bit.ly/3G9vf9FAdam Goldberg had to adapt his corporate approach after buying a nearly-closed manufacturer whose sales were down 80%.Topics in Adam’s interview:Building & exiting a wholesale costume jewelry businessDeciding he was too young to retireAcquiring a small, distressed candle businessNever go into business with friendsMistakes in over-hiringTrying to be an absentee ownerApologizing to his teamWhy he prefers small business to corporateExpanding beyond candlesCarving out their brand storyReferences and how to contact Adam:LinkedInSeraconGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Pioneer Capital AdvisoryLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinar: 5 Stages of the Business Buying Process - Fri Apr 11 - https://bit.ly/4ljGigoKeegan Dum wound down his search fund after 2 years without a deal, but he went on to acquire & create a great outcome. Topics in Keegan’s interview:Choosing traditional searchNo deal after 2 years of searchingSelling the business after 18 monthsFinding a business on his own through consultingRole of software in car washes & auto shopsRenegotiating terms with previous investorsLow churn for you means low churn for your competitorsThe “always on” nature of running an essential businessSpreadsheet vs reality of operating the businessProfitable exit after 18 monthsReferences and how to contact Keegan:LinkedInMatt Bauer & Chris Hartman on Acquiring Minds: Exited but Tired: 5 Years in a Hard Business Get a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinar: 5 Stages of the Business Buying Process - Fri Apr 11 - https://bit.ly/4ji2UMuKen Eyjolfson looked at tons of businesses before deciding on a mattress outlet with $500k SDE and 700 5-star reviews. Topics in Ken’s interview:8 years with the Soccer Shots franchiseSpending too long searching for the perfect dealBuying a discount mattress retailerHow the Canadian mattress industry worksBuying from a “shady seller”Getting the lowest wholesale mattress pricesStarting with a large Facebook followingExpanding through pop-up shopsPrivate equity acquiring mattress companiesFinancing without the SBAReferences and how to contact Ken:ken@mrliquidator.caLinkedInMr. LiquidatorBuilt to Sell by John WarrillowSeller’s reality TV show The LiquidatorGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinar:5 Steps to the Business Buying Process - Thu April 10th - https://bit.ly/41RC4oNAfter his foray into SMB ownership went well with FedEx routes, Matt O'Brien bought & doubled a $2.5m fencing business. Topics in Matt’s interview:Buying and expanding FedEx routesNuances of buying a FedEx routeSelling his routes at peak value during CovidAcquiring a commercial fencing businessKeeping the seller’s son on as presidentInjecting more money for working capitalImpact of equipment on debtTrucking acquisition that failedWhere he finds high quality employeesPrivate equity in the fencing industryReferences and how to contact Matt:LinkedInProfessional Fence Co.Chris Edwards on Acquiring Minds: Buy, Grow, Exit for a 24x Return in 3.5 YearsBrett Kennedy on Acquiring Minds: Reflections on 2 Years in the Knife FightSam Rosati on Acquiring Minds: How to Become an Independent SponsorWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
You thought the internet killed them off, but the travel agency Jared Benoff bought does $1m SDE by dominating a niche.Topics in Jared’s interview:His 9.5 year stint at Twitter/XHelping his dad with the family businessBuying his parents’ destination wedding businessEvolution of travel agenciesHis dad’s successful YouTube videosAdvantages of buying the family businessStanding out with customer serviceThe pain of 4-star reviewsWorking with a loan brokerBuying for 2x SDEReferences and how to contact Jared:LinkedInTwitterVacationeezeShell Zhang on Acquiring Minds: Awakening to Entrepreneurship to Buy a Not-Boring BusinessJordan Evans on Acquiring Minds: White Collar Roll-Up from $700k to $12mLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Initially drawn to buying a business, Kevin Moyer instead decided to start a project-based blue collar business instead.Topics in Kevin’s interview:Is the franchise fee worth it?Buying 3 de novo Smash My Trash territoriesHis appreciation for reversible decisionsA small business is an extension of the ownerRecurring revenue is overratedSimple is nice, but complexity is a moatStarting a business with his friendAdvantages of having a business partnerResiliency of physical world businessesSimplicity of a binary outcome businessReferences and how to contact Kevin:LinkedInTwitterSmash My TrashGolden Home AccessNick Haschka on Acquiring Minds: Building a $10m EBITDA Leader in a Fragmented SpaceKevin’s substackKevin’s substack post: Changing My Mind & What’s NextJohannes Hock on Acquiring Minds: Buy and 3x a Project-Based Business in Just 2 YearsGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSSmithlist is a job board for leadership roles at small businesses. If you're not ready to buy a business but want to lead one:Smithlist - Operate & Lead a BusinessConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinar: How to Reduce Surprises with Operational Diligence - Wed Mar 26 - https://bit.ly/4hxp0tj Seeking a fit with his industrials experience, Adam Salmen bought an 8-figure business with locations around the world.Topics in Adam’s interview:Looking beyond “arts and crafts” businessesPartnering with Novastone to search and acquireAcquiring a multinational industrial companyChina's dominance in steel productionTariffs and the steel industryCrowdfunding attempt that failedDon’t buy a PowerPoint presentationFalse summits in business ownershipBeing inspired by Naval RavikantPutting your name on a businessReferences and how to contact Adam:LinkedInNovastoneCliff & Christine on Acquiring Minds: Behind Every Great Searcher: A Wife’s Journey with SearchDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton Rohozov.Produced by Pam Cameron.
Register for the webinar:How to Reduce Surprises with Operational Diligence - Wed March 26 - https://bit.ly/4igNOqzAfter his acquisition failed, Jed Morris connected with dozens of others who'd experienced the same. There are patterns.Topics in Jed’s interview:Pivoting from Air Force to techInterning for the company he boughtAcquiring 2 landscaping companies a few weeks apartInsurance cost increased 30% after acquisitionPros and cons of long-term employeesMisjudging his employability Going out of businessHis upcoming book about business failureWhat bankruptcy really looks likeTop 3 reasons businesses failReferences and how to contact Jed:LinkedInTwitterGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinar:How to Reduce Surprises with Operational Diligence - Web March 26 - https://bit.ly/4kVYn3URecently laid off and a baby on the way, Shaugn Lindley pivoted into SMB ownership by buying a business with $550k SDE.Topics in Shaugn’s interview:Getting laid off from techReaching out to 600 local landscaping companiesFinding a mentor through Acquiring MindsWhy he decided against landscapingAcquiring a forklift repair businessThe importance of follow upBeing the second best optionChallenge of hiring techniciansStanding out from the competitionGetting the business listed on GoogleReferences and how to contact Shaugn:TwitterLinkedInR&R LiftMike Loftus TwitterAdrian Pinto & Mike Botkin on Acquiring Minds: One Acquiring Minds Guest Buys AnotherMatt Bauer & Chris Hartman on Acquiring Minds: Exited but Tired: 5 Years in a Hard BusinessGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSListen to Meeting of the Minds, our new sister podcast about independent sponsors and deal-by-deal private equity:YouTube, Spotify, AppleGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for:Employee Issues & Non-Competes When Buying a Business - Thu March 13th - https://bit.ly/41vg9SLThe live Q&A with Harley on March 27th - https://bit.ly/43vYX24Harley Sitner bought a struggling VW van repair shop for $100k in 2013. Today it's an 8-figure business and brand.Topics in Harley’s interview:His career in softwareFirst business acquisition: West Coast NurseriesSean buys a VW Camper Van"I'd rather hug 100 people than serve a billion"Irrational passion of VW van ownersOverpaying for a failing auto repair shopVW Van cultureThe value of the brandBuilding 6 different lines of businessThe app he's developing for VW ownersReferences and how to contact Harley:LinkedInPeaceVansharley@peacevans.comInstagramLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comAttend SMBash in Dallas, April 2-4, to meet fellow business buyers, operators, and investors:SMBash.comConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for:Employee Issues & Non-Competes When Buying a Business - Thu March 13 - https://bit.ly/3F6dasGThe live Q&A with Nick on March 25th: https://bit.ly/3DoZfgDIndustry outsider Nick Munsee bought a traffic engineering firm for a good price, carefully de-risking the acquisition.Topics in Nick's interview:Managing from out of stateThe white whale: a deal that almost happenedLessons from a failed acquisitionFinding Hales EngineeringUnderstanding the traffic consulting businessNavigating lender challengesIncentivizing key employeesChallenges in consulting business growthProject-based revenue insightsThe abrupt customer hand-offReferences and how to contact Nick:LinkedInHales Engineeringnick@saltbros.coWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinars:5 Stages of the Business Buying Process - Thu March 6 - https://bit.ly/3QEgIoAEmployee Issues & Non-Competes When Buying a Business - Thu March 13 - https://bit.ly/4koXrFbLive Q&A with Sean Daly - Tue March 18 - https://bit.ly/41yzjZ7Day 1 changes? Yes please. Sean Daly brought a spirit of experimentation, iteration, and speed to a small HVAC business.Topics in Sean’s interview:Founding and exiting his own companyGoing hard with cold outreachHiring an offshore assistant to source dealsEntrepreneurs are risk reducersBuilding an offshore back of house teamPaying mostly in cash for the businessHis decisive leadership styleETA is salesTreating his low-SDE business like a start-upFailed experiment with outbound marketingReferences and how to contact Sean:LinkedInIce C CoolAttend SMBash in Dallas, April 2-4, to meet fellow business buyers, operators, and investors:SMBash.comGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for:Live Q&A with Jonathan Bournigal - Thu March 19 - https://bit.ly/41lwPwcWebinar: 5 Stages of the Business Buying Process - Thu March 6 - https://bit.ly/41m0o0iJonathan Bournigal returned to his native Dominican Republic to buy a business. He found a small one and has 6x'd it.Topics in Jonathan’s interview:Boomer-owned businesses vs family-run businessesAvoiding the label of “tire kicker”Searching in a country the size of Rhode IslandWhy multiples are higher in the Dominican RepublicSelling when your life depends on itReal estate: own or rent?Venture capital vs. growth equity vs. LBOGrowing the business without debtPros and cons of dominating the market in a small countryHow to structure investor terms in markets where exits are rareReferences and how to contact Jonathan:LinkedInBUNKERCarabela Search and ManagementGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
1Register for the webinar:5 Stages of the Business Buying Process - Thu March 6 - https://bit.ly/435spfeBarker Squire has grown his crane servicing business gradually over 6 years. Now he turns his attention to what's next.Topics in Barker’s interview:Leading teams in the Marine CorpsGetting a conventional loan instead of SBAKeeping his ears open in seller meetingsPros and cons of government contractsEmployees walking outStaying safe in a dangerous jobThe owner staying as an employeeGrowing revenue 3x in 6 yearsHis vision to build a holdcoPromoting an employee to CEOReferences and how to contact Barker:LinkedInBarker's album on Spotify Craneworks, Inc.John GilsonGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinar:First 100 Days: Survive & Thrive as a New Business Owner - Wed Feb 26 - https://bit.ly/4hFqGle24 hours into Jack Carr's ownership of a tiny HVAC business, disaster struck. Just 2.5 years later, it did $3m in sales.Topics in Jack’s interview:All HVAC techs quit on the first dayBuying an HVAC business with no physical locationWhy he feels like his 2x multiple was too highTeaching himself HVAC skills via YouTubeHow he prices a book of businessHis process for retaining customers after acquisitionValue of a business owner communityHow Google reviews keep the phone ringingUnderstanding the risk of buying smallListening to your employees without being held hostageReferences and how to contact Jack:LinkedInTwitterOwned and OperatedPete Ciaverilla on Acquiring Minds: Bullseye: Buying a $1m SDE Business in a Hot IndustryGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Houston on May 3rd:https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSListen to Meeting of the Minds, our new sister podcast about independent sponsors and deal-by-deal private equity:YouTube, Spotify, AppleGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinars:Using a Sale-Leaseback to Buy a Business - Thu Feb 20 - https://bit.ly/3QjGZYRFirst 100 Days: Survive & Thrive as a New Business Owner - Wed Feb 26 - https://bit.ly/4hCxC2GSubscribe to the new podcast, Meeting of the Minds:On YouTubeSpotify & Apple links coming soon!Lucas Philips bought a niche manufacturer with $200k SDE, aiming to make it an ecommerce/DTC business. It's working.Topics in Lucas’s interview:How his startup mindset influenced his acquisitionBuying a super-niche manufacturer at age 23Motivating staff (or not) with $3/hr raisesLearning to fire and trust his instinctsModernizing the businessAdvantages of buying a business youngAnxiety issues post-acquisitionHow bolt-ons have lengthened the J curveExpanding into the Porsche marketLooking ahead to using AIReferences and how to contact Lucas:LinkedInlucas@newarkauto.comNewark AutoBenjamin Ross GroupBen Jasper on Acquiring Minds: Factory Life: Buying a Manufacturer with $1m SDEThe Founder's Dilemmas: Anticipating and Avoiding the Pitfalls That Can Sink a StartupWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinars:Using a Sale-Leaseback to Buy a Business - Thu Feb 20 - https://bit.ly/3X1BqSQSubscribe to the new podcast, Meeting of the Minds:On YouTubeSpotify & Apple links coming soon!Cliff & Christine Nelson navigated him buying a big but remote business while she was pregnant, then a first-time mom.Topics in Cliff and Christine’s interview:Highs and lows of the 2-year searchCliff quitting his job right before CovidBecoming parents and closing on a business the same weekWhat Cliff liked about the traditional search modelAcquiring a business with 100 employeesBeing alone in an unfamiliar city as a new momChristine getting very sick during the moveFeeling like a bad father and a bad CEO at the same timeExperiencing the J curve“I wouldn’t live through it again, but I’m glad we did it.”References and how to contact Cliff and Christine:Cliff LinkedInChristine LinkedInPsychoGeriatric ServicesLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinars:Legal Aspects of Debt Financing - Thu Feb 13 - https://bit.ly/4aOwtlMUsing a Sale-Leaseback to Buy a Business - Thu Feb 20 - https://bit.ly/4hQbn9eIt took Alex Holley a few months of daily meetings to find a $4.5m home services business in his local Louisville, KY.Topics in Alex’s interview:Networking through 100 meetings in 4 monthsBuying 2 businesses at onceLearning how to run a crewGoing on jobs to learn about the workLeaving consulting for blue-collar industryOwning weather-dependent businessesTaking on a friend as a silent partnerA close call with payroll the first weekBuilding rapport with the employeesHaving a blast in home servicesReferences and how to contact Alex:LinkedInBDry Systems of LouisvilleRamJackAdam Duggins on Acquiring Minds: From Determined Searcher to $75m Accidental HoldcoBen Rizzo on Acquiring Minds: How a First-Timer Did a Turnaround (Including an Exit)Get complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterCredits:Produced by Pam CameronEdited by Anton Rohozov
Register for the webinars:Legal Aspects of Debt Financing - Thu Feb 13 - https://bit.ly/414vOtcUsing a Sale-Leaseback to Buy a Business - Thu Feb 20 - https://bit.ly/42I4dPYFormer guest Chris Edwards has sold the $1.7m flooring business he bought with $200k of his own money and an SBA loan.Topics in Chris’s interview:Why he chose to sell his flooring businessDeciding not to rebrandOwning and operating in a small, isolated townA countertop acquisition that went southHow a holdco is different from running one businessFetal positions and sleepless nightsImproving their customer serviceWhy he might build his next business from scratchLosing clients to a former employeeGrowing EBITDA from $500k to $1.1MReferences and how to contact Chris:TwitterLinkedInchris@sanitasequity.comChris’s first appearance on Acquiring Minds: How to Survive Acquiring a $3.5m Flooring BusinessChris’s second appearance on Acquiring Minds: Would They Do It Again? 1 Year Later with 5 Early GuestsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterCredits:Produced by Pam CameronEdited by Anton Rohozov
Register for the webinars:5 Stages of the Business Buying Process - Thu Feb 6 - https://bit.ly/4aNHmEzLegal Aspects of Debt Financing - Thu Feb 13 - https://bit.ly/3PXBEX6Industry-agnostic Trip Biesanz brought his sales skills to a glass fabrication & install business doing $3m in revenue.Topics in Trip’s interview:Being a franchisee for 7 yearsNetworking through MBBI and XPXWorking with Calder Capital to find a businessNarrowing down his search to constructionValue he saw in long-term employeesManaging cashflow in constructionRelying on his team in an unfamiliar trades businessCompetitive nature of constructionHighs and lows of running a businessFranchising compared to owning an independent shopReferences and how to contact Trip:LinkedInG&C Glass, Mirror & ConstructionMBBIXPXGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinars:5 Stages of the Business Buying Process - Thu Feb 6 - https://bit.ly/3En1vFuLegal Aspects of Debt Financing - Thu Feb 13 - https://bit.ly/3EjjOex7 months into ownership of a $2m fencing business, Kirk Olson is learning how to manage culture, tech, and cash flow.Topics in Kirk’s interview:Achieving financial independence, but deciding not to retireBuying a business for a total life upgradeNegotiating with very difficult sellersStructuring real estate into the dealReturning after the first deal diedSales dropping after the transition Learning to calculate the cost of a jobIntroducing a CRM and ditching the faxMaking Mike’s Fencing a great place to workTurning on digital marketingReferences and how to contact Kirk:kolson@mikesfencing.comMike’s FencingJohn Murphy’s episode: The Double Life of Owning a Business 2.5 Hours AwayGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinars: Legal Preparation for Your Search - Thu Jan 30 - https://bit.ly/4hlhlic5 Stages of the Business Buying Process - Thu Feb 6 - https://bit.ly/3QautetWhen Shell Zhang recognized her own tolerance for risk she stepped off a linear path to buy a $600k SDE travel business.Topics in Shell’s interview:Buying a group tour businessOvercoming key-person riskGoing from a regional company to a national companyAvoiding “boring businesses”Paying over asking price for the businessWhy payment processors consider her business “high risk”Starting from zero with online marketingWhat her clients love about the businessPossible areas for growthHer goal of redoing the websiteReferences and how to contact Shell:LinkedInNada’s ItalyLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR:From this page or contact mark@aspenhr.comConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinars: Legal Preparation for Your Search - Thu Jan 30 - https://bit.ly/4heHi355 Stages of the Business Buying Process - Thu Feb 6 - https://bit.ly/4h7HOQjRay & Dana Chery sensed a need for change in their careers. A 26-year-old portable sink manufacturer was the answer.Topics in Dana and Ray’s interview:Going all-in as a couple buying a businessHow they beat out 50 other buyersMoving from the finance world to manufacturingBuying a portable sink manufacturerHow Ray applies his banking skillsRevamping the website and logoOpportunities to sell to more school districtsChallenge of prioritizing tasks at the businessTheir vision to grow the company to 8 figuresWide variety of use cases for portable sinksReferences and how to contact Dana and Ray:Ray’s LinkedInDana’s LinkedInMonsam Portable SinksWill Gano on Acquiring Minds: After 4 Years of Part-Time Searching, SuccessWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinar: •Legal Preparation for Your Search - Thu Jan 30 - https://bit.ly/3CbswuPMonths into his ownership, Ayo Phillips realized his industry was fatally flawed. He survived and 5 years later, exited.Topics in Ayo’s interview:Acquiring with funding from a family officeBuying a declining business in a competitive industryUnethical practices within his industryBeing honest about your motivation to buy a businessLosing 19 employees who became competitorsTreating his business like a startupPivoting from countertops to drivewaysThe toll the business took on his familySuccessfully exiting the businessHis 16 Commandments of SearchReferences and how to contact Ayo:The 16 Commandments of Acquisition EntrepreneurshipLinkedInTwitterOperators CoachTwitter threadLP First CapitalThomas InceGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterCredits:Edited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron
Register for the webinars: •Is It a Fair Multiple? The Art of Making Your Offer - Wed Jan 22 - https://bit.ly/4asGoxw •Legal Preparation for Your Search - Thu Jan 30 - https://bit.ly/3CbswuPAbhi Ravishankar & 3 partners devised a novel holdco structure to prioritize flexibility, cash flow, and the long term.Topics in Abhi’s interview:Going from BCG partner to small business buyerStarting a holdco with 3 friendsTheir primary and secondary partner modelSetting up contingency plans in their operating agreementGoal of spending more time with familyNot taking on investorsQuickly learning about potential industriesClosing on a pool business in 6 weeks4 add-ons in 18 monthsAcquiring 2 ShelfGenie franchise locationsReferences and how to contact Abhi:LinkedInTwitterMarc Nzojibwami’s episode: The Model for a 3-way Longterm HoldcoGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Mike Heath bought a garage door installer from owners who didn't use email. He grew sales fast, but profits came harder.Topics in Michael’s interview:Passing on a commercial cleaning businessAcquiring a garage door business with silent partnersInstalling an operator on day oneMessy, unkempt books from the sellerHitting a cashflow crisisBringing in a consultant and keeping her on full-timePaying off the SBA loan earlyDoubling their gross marginSplitting revenue across 3 partnersAcquiring 2 pool businessesReferences and how to contact Michael:LinkedInStateline Products of MissouriFlorida Pool and SpaPool King RecreationGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Sale-leaseback and asset-based lending enabled Carlo Santelli to acquire and own 100% of a $3.5m EBITDA manufacturer.Topics in Carlo’s interview:Applying 3x to Columbia before getting inLeaving a finance career to buy a businessWhy he only buys proprietary, not through brokersMaintaining deal momentum when a seller is very busyThe power of asset-based lendingThe power of a successful sale leasebackBeing comfortable learning as you goHow he thinks about riskClosing on 4 businesses this yearHis ambitious goal for next yearReferences and how to contact Carlo:LinkedIncarlo.santelli@gmail.comCortina Capital PartnersGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Pete Ciaverilla bought a $12m HVAC business, then grew earnings 50% in 3 years. His timing couldn't have been better.Topics in Peter’s interview:Combining households with his parents while searchingUsing a buy-side advisorFunding less than 5% of the deal himselfTransitioning the seller’s family out of the businessBuying a company with 65 employees, $12M in revenueAdvantages of buying a bigger companyBalancing commercial and residential HVACImpact of seasonality on revenueWhy private equity likes HVACFeeling comfortable with taking on a large loanReferences and how to contact Peter:LinkedInTwitterLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Michael Jacobson bought his uncle's barely-profitable 45-year-old flower shop in LA. In 4 years he's grown it 16x.Topics in Michael’s interview:Revamping his uncle’s flower shopReplacing the overpriced phone systemBuilding custom software for the floral industryWhy flower shops are hard to runHow “wire services” like 1-800 Flowers workSwitching to Google Ads for better ROIDoubling revenue with a new websiteOperating as a digital-first brand with physical locationsBecoming the French Florist franchiseWhy he’s not interested in private equity moneyReferences and how to contact Michael:LinkedInmichael@frenchflorist.comFrench FloristWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Tim Lahey has doubled the $1.6m company he bought, and buying small has prepared him well for the next phase of growth.Topics in Tim’s interview:Being inspired by Doug CookLooking for a “dusty, not rusty” businessPartnering with an M&A firm to searchAcquiring a home technology companyGetting bitten on a cashflow crunchHandling customer complaints as the ownerCulture of small businessesChanging too much too fastListening for what customers wantChallenges of buying smallReferences and how to contact Tim:LinkedIntimlahey@rhometech.comr:homeThe Trusted AdvisorGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Nick Molina on how he found, acquired, & plans to manage a 275-employee business in Minneapolis from his home in Miami.Topics in Nick’s interview:Taking his first company public in 1998His unwillingness to retireThe tremendous cost of start-upsWhich state he won’t do business inBuying a business he doesn’t have to operateImportance of listening in salesLiving in Miami while owning a business in MinneapolisWhat makes a good property management businessUsing a loan broker Appeal of keeping a business in his familyReferences and how to contact Nick:LinkedInTwitternick@endangeredinvestments.comEndangered InvestmentsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
After buying then exiting a 12-unit franchise portfolio, Alicia Miller became expert on how to attract private equity.Topics in Alicia’s interview:Leaving her corporate career to buy a franchiseAcquiring a portfolio of Sylvan Learning CentersTurning around unprofitable locationsHer tips for negotiating an acquisitionHow private equity has impacted franchisingAcquiring existing franchise locations vs. de novo developmentWhich brands attract private equity and whyNew brands that are disrupting their industriesWhy Subway has value despite closing locationsHow emerging franchise brands change as they growReferences and how to contact Alicia:LinkedInBig Money In Franchising by Alicia MillerGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Dismissed by brokers, Simon Plummer bought & grew a manufacturer 75% in 3 years. Today he's building a long-term holdco.Topics in Simon’s interview:Creating the “BizBuySell” of AustraliaBuying a manufacturing businessDifficulty of acquisition in AustraliaRunning the machines himself for 18 monthsLearning from his cashflow mistakesLaunching their brand in the UK, US, and CanadaHow a bricklaying YouTuber skyrocketed salesFinding and hiring a CEOAnxiety of owning a small businessBuilding a long-term holding companyReferences and how to contact Simon:LinkedInArbor Permanent OwnersBT Engineering USABT Engineering AustraliaRowan GrantJason AndrewLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Josh Key partnered with a master plumber from his church to acquire a plumbing business doing $1.25m. It ended badly.Topics in Josh’s interview:Buying a plumbing business with a partnerQuitting his job to go all-inInadequate due diligence on his partnerHis partner’s wife getting involved in the businessEmotional outbursts and threats from his partnerEmployees and clients leaving due to the partnerClosing the business and filing for bankruptcyWhat he learned about due diligenceHow his mindset is guided by his faithWhat he wants to do nextReferences and how to contact Josh:josh@castlekeyholdings.comLinkedInWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Tom & Dawson Matter bought a vent cleaning business operating out of a parking lot. The transition has been interesting.Topics in Tom and Dawson’s interview:Teaming up to acquire Pro Duct CleaningThe nocturnal, detailed, messy nature of the workTom keeping his W-2 while Dawson runs operationsMaintaining a 42% marginLearning to deal with angry customersUpgrading the equipment and facilitiesHiring Dawson’s wife to help with operationsSwitching from Google Calendar to a real CRMTrouble communicating with employeesChasing down payment from clientsReferences and how to contact Tom and Dawson:Pro Duct Cleaninginfo@pdcleaning.comDan Tagliatela on Acquiring Minds: Reward for a Brutal Transition: $760k EBITDA on 3 Hours/WeekGeorge Vallone on Acquiring Minds: When Buying Small Goes Right (3x Growth)Get a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinar:Where Searchers Go Wrong, Part 2 - Thu Dec 12 - https://bit.ly/3VtCvC1Fred McGill liked the trades and zeroed in on electrical. The $3.2m business he bought is likely to grow 25% in year 1.Topics in Fred’s interview:Founding a real estate start-upComparing rental income to small businessAcquiring an electrical companyReassuring employees during transitionLearning how to hire electriciansCompensation in the electrical industryGrowth through digital marketingMiscalculating working capitalImportance of making the phone ringHelping searchers through Blue Collar AdvisoryReferences and how to contact Fred:LinkedInTwitterBray Electrical Servicesfred@bluecollaradvisory.comLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinar:Where Searchers Go Wrong, Part 2 - Thu Dec 12 - https://bit.ly/4igqBVQJordan Dubin and his partners are rolling up a home services industry. They blew by their 5-year goal in the first year.Topics in Jordan’s interview:Partnering with his 2 friendsHand writing 200 letters to potential sellersBuilding a platform of garage door businessesMaintaining local brandsWhy private equity hasn’t picked over the industry yetHow they chose the garage door marketBuilding trust through honestyHitting $20 million EBITDA in the first yearBeachhead and tuck-in strategiesThe role of timing in acquisition successReferences and how to contact Jordan:LinkedInGuild Garage GroupGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinar:Where Searchers Go Wrong, Part 2 - Thu Dec 12 - https://bit.ly/41ivxUlFragmentation & an enormous TAM drew Jonathon Tupper to buy a 30-year-old business in the asset-based lending industry.Topics in Jonathon’s interview:Moving from politics to investment managementImportance of liquidityFactoring: a form of asset-based lendingWhat kinds of businesses benefit from factoringBuying a factoring businessAcquiring without an SBA loanPaying 2x EBITDACompeting with banks and other lendersRunning a Houston business from Southern CaliforniaChallenge of hiring good employeesReferences and how to contact Jonathon:LinkedInJobe Services Inc.jonathont@jsifactoring.com Get a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinar: • Where Searchers Go Wrong, Part 2 - Thu Dec 12 - https://bit.ly/4f0320CMichael Johnson started searching in April. Today he's having the time of his life as owner of a $1.2m printing business.Topics in Michael’s interview:Marine Corps experience in IraqAcquiring a vending machineFrustration with his W-2 jobAcquiring a SpeedPro locationUps and downs of negotiation and fundingFrustrating first day as ownerHigh demand for printing car wrapsEmpowering employees to be autonomousHiring his wife to work in the businessWhat he loves about the franchise modelReferences and how to contact Michael:LinkedInThe one-pager Michael used during outreachSpeedPro NW RaleighDominick Blue on Acquiring Minds: Buying & Growing a Business While Keeping a Day JobJesse Safir on Acquiring Minds: Surviving the Nightmare: Sales Plunge 95%Dan Verboski on Acquiring Minds: Candid Reflections on 7 Years of SMB OwnershipJarett Berke on Acquiring Minds: When a Restaurant is a Great Business to BuyAdam Markley on Acquiring Minds: Getting Reps: Helping Others Look at Deals Led to a HoldcoGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Link Moser built a nearly-passive business portfolio by acquiring tiny web design & hosting shops on favorable terms.Topics in Link’s interview:Learning to build websites in the 90’sStarting a web design/hosting businessSending out letters to target businessesAcquiring other digital marketing agencies nearbyIntegrating the businesses he boughtCustomer attrition rates during transitionGetting bored with passive incomeConsidering buying a traditional, non-digital business Willingness to sell his own businessPros and cons of remote workReferences and how to contact Link:LinkedInWindhill DesignGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Derek Croft bought a $1m SDE business with a national footprint in an unusual niche. Just don't call him The Lice King.Topics in Derek’s interview:Leaving Bain to search for a businessAcquiring LiceDoctorsWhy it’s good for a profitable business to be imperfect Personal satisfaction from helping customersPayroll emergency on day 2Competition in the lice removal industryHigh staff turnover despite good paySpeeding up their response timeRaising public awareness of their serviceHis goal to double in 5 yearsReferences and how to contact Derek:LinkedInLiceDoctorsETA CircleWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinars: • Understanding the Waterfall - Thu Nov 21 - https://bit.ly/3AMj6FkFrancisco Del Rio & Diego Silva are 5 acquisitions into a venture to consolidate veterinary practices in Chile & beyond.Topics in Francisco & Diego’s interview:Vetting each other before partneringTeaming up to roll up vet clinics in ChilePitching themselves to clinic ownersSearching during strict Covid lockdownsEducating owners about business valuationUnderstanding the seller’s perspectiveMaking variable compensation workTeaching receptionists to use sales scriptsFinding investors and growing the businessVision to expand to neighboring countriesReferences and how to contact Francisco & Diego:Diego Silva LinkedIndiego@latamvet.comFrancisco del Rio LinkedIn francisco@latamvet.com Latam VetGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinars: Where Searchers Go Wrong - Thu Nov 14 - https://bit.ly/3O0im2aLegal Office Hours: Understanding the Waterfall - Thu Nov 21 - https://bit.ly/3O3zqo2Sam Rosati & partners built the Sunbelt's largest commercial fencing contractor in 3 years. But the origins were modest.Topics in Sam’s interview:His background in accounting and lawBeing inspired by Chenmark and Brent BeshoreAcquiring Alpha Dumpsters with his brotherBirth of SMBashOrigin story of SMB LawHow an independent sponsor differs from a self-funded searcherInvesting in a commercial fencing businessThe role of luck in successAcquiring and consolidating fence businesses Partnering with private equityReferences and how to contact Sam:LinkedInTwitterSMBootcampChandler Reed on Acquiring Minds: Boom, Bust, Boom: Buying a Whiplash BusinessJohn Hubbard on Acquiring Minds: Why Buy a Small Manufacturing Business? and Time to Sell? Growing EBITDA from $750k to $2m Get a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinars:Where Searchers Go Wrong - Thu Nov. 14 - https://bit.ly/40HZtZKLegal Office Hours: Understanding the Waterfall - Thu Nov 24 - https://bit.ly/4hEzVThThe story behind "Rick & Royce", who've probably done more to grow entrepreneurship through acquisition than anyone.Topics in Rick and Royce’s interview:How they met in academiaGrowth of their ETA class at HarvardUnexpected success of their bookSatisfaction of changing students’ livesThoughts on their sons searching for businessesPartner/family perspectives on searchValue of learning about failed acquisitionsHow attitudes about small business have transformedUsing their podcast to educate about small businessThoughts on pursuing wealthReferences and how to contact Rick and Royce:The book: HBR Guide to Buying a Small BusinessThe podcast: Think Big, Buy SmallGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
When he realized he was willing to do the work himself, Matthew Railla bought a $500k SDE termite inspection business.Topics in Matt’s interview:His family’s culture of entrepreneurshipHis background running a wineryBecoming a business brokerBuying his own listingBuying a tough-to-sell business Getting an SBA loan using the new partial buyout rulesCrawling under houses himself to learn the tradeSeller agreeing to teach him for 2 yearsThe 3 branches of pest controlHis plan to expand the businessReferences and how to contact Matt:LinkedInmatt@toptermiteco.comhttps://www.toptermiteco.comLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Iris Levine bought a 30-year-old construction firm just steps from the rough Nashville neighborhood where she grew up.Topics in Iris’s interview:Working 3 jobs to pay for collegeBackground in high-growth startupsForming her own acquisition mastermind groupFinding an unlisted business through a brokerBuying a porch construction companyPutting 5% down without outside investorsChoosing to forego a quality of earningsAdding technology for project managementMotivation to find work-life flexibilityPossibility of expanding their offeringsReferences and how to contact Iris:LinkedInEpisode #233 with Alan LochridgeWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinar: How to Run a 2-Year Search in 2 Months - Nov 1 - https://bit.ly/48sjkh9Seattle-based Dan Drake & his wife wanted to raise their kids in Bend, Oregon. Buying a business allowed them to do it.Topics in Dan’s interview:His search in Bend, OregonUnderstanding negotiation tacticsBundling the real estate with the businessHis seller-financed dealRenegotiating after sales dipped 20%Pros and cons of having experienced staffExplaining balloon paymentsGiving back to Central OregonMeeting with top customers to understand their needsImproving inventory management and websiteReferences and how to contact Dan:LinkedInIndustrial Applied ElectricNegotiate Without Fear by Dr. Victoria MedvecGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact mark@aspenhr.com or visit Aspen HRConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
Register for the webinar:How to Run a 2-Year Search in 2 Months - Friday, Nov 1 - https://bit.ly/3YEN9YEWhen, at age 29, Gat Caperton bought a furniture maker in his native West Virginia, he was also buying himself a career.Topics in Gat’s interview:Working for the legendary Sam ZellAcquiring a furniture manufacturer in 1996You’re better off with smart competitors than dumb competitorsCutting his lead time in half the first yearImplementing lean manufacturingOwning the business with his dadChina devastated US furniture manufacturingJoining John Bassett to sue China for breaking trade lawsThe evolution of “Made in America”How to evaluate a furniture manufacturerReferences and how to contact Gat:LinkedInGat CreekFactory Man by Beth MacyThe Goal by Eliyahu Goldratt and Jeff CoxWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at nick@inzotechnologies.com, and tell him you’re a searcherGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring MindsConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter
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