Acquiring Minds

David Graf went after a business that had sat on the market, acquiring $750k of EBITDA for 2.7x. It's going well. Register for the webinars:  Negotiating Working Capital in SMB Acquisitions - TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/4a2ozGeNew $10m Limit for SBA Loans: What You Need to Know - Thu, May 28 - https://bit.ly/49j3V4tTopics in David’s interview:  Drive to earn money as a kidChoosing to skip business schoolAdvantages of acquiring in TexasPreparing his case to convince his wifeWorking full time while searchingGrowth is often underpricedWholesaling real estate he didn’t wantHow to decide whether to keep an employeeJoining a group for manufacturing ownersNear-crisis days before closingReferences and how to contact David: LinkedInDanhardRand LarsenScalepathGet a Grip by Mike PatonWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit for acquisition diligence or post-close transition. Visit inzotechnologies.com/eta.Get a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Truc Nguyen has acquired 2 nail salons, an overlooked but fragmented industry where businesses trade at low multiples. Register for the webinar: Negotiating Working Capital in SMB Acquisitions - Tue, May 26 - https://bit.ly/4eQfCTRTopics in Truc’s interview: Why she chose the nail salon industryHer vision for a rollupAnalyzing a current nail salon business listingLow multiples in the nail spaceBargaining power of good nail techsSquare footage and number of chairs mattersDocumenting SOPs for her first salonStaffing a 7-day-a-week businessCreating a great company cultureThe changing face of nail salonsReferences and how to contact Truc: LinkedInSarah Romer on Acquiring Minds: How to Buy a Salon as an Industry Outsider (and Survive)Get 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 AdvisoryThe ecosystem for serious acquisition entrepreneurs—education, capital, community, and post-close support to buy and grow a business: 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 and produced by Pam Cameron

Gant Elmore and Matt Moldenhauer each bought $2m businesses they built over years. Today their holdco does over $200m.  Register for the webinar: Revenue Recognition & Quality of Revenue in SMB Deals - TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/4dMvx4wTopics in Matt & Gant’s interview: 3 generations of acquisition entrepreneursMatt started as operator, became partnerBain mentors warned Matt not to do ETAGoal of owning 50 companies by 2050Being the Ferrari in a price-competitive industryWhy they prefer holding to exitingChallenge of giving control to an operatorGant and his dad teach ETA togetherWar stories from small business operationsDemand exceeds supply of great businessesReferences and how to contact Matt & Gant: Elmore [email protected]’s LinkedInGant’s LinkedInDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit for acquisition diligence or post-close transition. Visit inzotechnologies.com/eta.Connect with Acquiring Minds: See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Zack Mutnik thought he bought a $1.5m electrical contracting business for 2.3x. The numbers weren't what they seemed. Register for the webinar: Kill It Early: Spot Red Flags Before Spending on Diligence - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/4eBVO6ETopics in Zack’s interview: Learning leadership in the NavyManaging chaos with ADHDUndisclosed surprises after acquisitionReplacing 8/10 employeesHeavy emphasis on company cultureDeciding to change the business nameTraining his employees to be independentGrowing revenue despite a rocky startMarketing is not a quick fixFinding employees in a rural marketReferences and how to contact Zack: TikTokFacebookLinkedInGet a complimentary IT audit for acquisition diligence or post-close transition. Visit inzotechnologies.com/eta.Download the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Alicia Powers wanted to buy a general contractor but understood the risks in such businesses and negotiated accordingly. Register for the webinar:  Kill It Early: Spot Red Flags Before Spending on Diligence - Thu, May 14 - https://bit.ly/4wqiYU3Topics in Alicia’s interview: Air Force construction experienceCorporate job at an elevator companyLeading a shower remodeling startupLayoff motivated her toward acquisitionWhy franchising isn’t for herAcquiring a small construction businessGetting her general contractor licenseSpecializing in home additions/ADUsTailwinds in the San Diego areaSurprisingly long sales cycleReferences and how to contact Alicia: LinkedInPrice BuildersGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsThe ecosystem for serious acquisition entrepreneurs—education, capital, community, and post-close support to buy and grow a business: The Acquisition LabWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Brendan Duebner's goal is to build a healthy, long-term business of 20-40 people. Buying a $1.2m MSP was his first step. Topics in Brendan’s interview: Learning to lead in the ArmySummer internship with Josh MedowCold calling is unpleasant but effectiveLiving and acquiring in the Bay AreaWorking in the business before closingSigns of seller integrity85% seller note with no personal guaranteeImplementing EOS himselfChoosing to only hire localHis mission of building a tribeReferences and how to contact Brendan: LinkedInIT Total CareJosh Medow on Acquiring Minds: How to Unlock Growth in a 40-Year-Old Business You BuyAbhi Ravishankar on Acquiring Minds: The $50m Lifestyle HoldcoWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 [email protected] with Acquiring Minds: See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Andrew Blazenko has made 6 acquisitions over the last ten years. Pairing businesses with operators is key to his model. Topics in Andrew’s interview: Background as a business brokerWanted the exit joy for himselfDanger of low barrier to entryFinding great operators to run his businessesBusiness acquisition requires repsExecutive in Residence programRequiring operators to invest in the businessDifficulty of raising equity in CanadaShipping costs as a natural moatLiving as a “gentleman of leisure” References and how to contact Andrew: LinkedInProSafeEterna EquityTrueFoamThe ecosystem for serious acquisition entrepreneurs—education, capital, community, and post-close support to buy and grow a business: The Acquisition LabGet a complimentary IT audit for acquisition diligence or post-close transition. Visit inzotechnologies.com/eta.Get a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Dan Burnside thought he got a great deal on an $800k SDE business. Instead he'd bought bad faith and years of struggle. Register for the webinar:   Add-Ons and Carve-Outs: How to Get Banks on Board - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/4sO0MAtTopics in Dan’s interview: Buying in a small, rural areaDiscovering seller fraud after acquisitionKey employee leaves and starts competing businessWorking to integrate himself into the communityHVAC techs resisted technology changesWife and kids unhappy in the new placeGetting his Master Mechanical Contractor licenseCustomers not paying their invoicesHiring challenges in rural areasBankruptcy and his new AI ventureReferences and how to contact Dan: LinkedInJan Roll on Acquiring Minds: 21 Months to Stability Buying a $1.2m SDE BusinessGet 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsThe ecosystem for serious acquisition entrepreneurs—education, capital, community, and post-close support to buy and grow a business: 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 and produced by Pam Cameron

Jeff Flannery is a great example of how franchising complements ETA, having rolled up 17 units since starting in 2019. Register for the webinars:  Advanced Deal Mechanics: NWC, Net Debt & Purchase Price Adjustments - TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/4u9KyD6Add-Ons and Carve-Outs: How to Get Banks on Board - Thu, Apr 30 - https://bit.ly/3OpzRgxTopics in Jeff’s interview: Difference between a practice and a business18 years of running a procurement recruiting firmAcquiring a failing Hand and Stone locationImproving the franchisee playbookAsk franchisees for the actual profit marginsMastering the business from the bottom upWorking 100-hour weeks for yearsImplementing enrollment feesRunning spas in California through CovidBuilding an inbound and outbound offshore call centerReferences and how to contact Jeff: [email protected] & StoneDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit for acquisition diligence or post-close transition. Visit inzotechnologies.com/eta.Connect with Acquiring Minds: See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Nicolás Lulli bought a document storage business in Peru. 6 years later, it is a $25m leader in the Andean region. Register for the webinar:  Advanced Deal Mechanics: NWC, Net Debt & Purchase Price Adjustments - Tue, Apr 28 - https://bit.ly/490Ms0qTopics in Nicolás’s interview: First employee at Relay Investments search fundLaunched Peru’s first search fund, Colca CapitalCovid lockdowns erased profits almost overnightRebuilding the business into a tight submarineFrom $0 EBITDA to $5m in one yearShifted focus toward acquisitions for faster growthRecords storage is a real estate businessInvests in other searchers to pay it forwardThe cradle-to-grave strategy in records managementBuilding a searcher community in PeruReferences and how to contact Nicolás: LinkedInColca CapitalGet a complimentary IT audit for acquisition diligence or post-close transition.  Visit inzotechnologies.com/eta. The ecosystem for serious acquisition entrepreneurs—education, capital, community, and post-close support to buy and grow a business: The Acquisition LabWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Greg Hirsch wants more seasoned professionals to understand how valuable their experience can be to an ETA journey. Topics in Greg’s interview: Fifteen years learning systems at Sysco FoodsFailed startup revealed builder, not founder pathHelped scale trucking roll-up through industry consolidationRevisiting his “heck no” pileInvests in timeless blue-collar essential industriesLate-40s searches benefit from life experienceSpouse alignment essential before risking family securityHis wife’s perspective on the processGrowth comes from removing operational frictionHis wife’s perspective on the processReferences and how to contact Greg: LinkedInHirsch VenturesGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Thanks to strong business-buyer fit, Joe Wynn negotiated great terms to acquire a $600k SDE sales & service business. Register for the webinar:  Real Estate Issues When Buying a Business - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/4smYdoQTopics in Joseph’s interview: Trading a mid–six-figure salary for business ownershipWanting to “build his own ladder” instead of climbing someone else’sBuying a medical equipment distribution and service companyDesigning and outfitting hospital operating rooms45% net margins on $2M in revenueRaising service prices 20–50% in his first six weeksNavigating “lumpy” project-based revenue cyclesStructuring a $1.35M deal with seller financingPutting only $120K down with no personal guaranteeA post-closing banking freeze that forced him to cover payrollReferences and how to contact Joseph: LinkedInSurgical Specialties of GeorgiaIris Levine on Acquiring Minds: $6m Business, 3 Minutes From Childhood HomeBrian Hartman on Acquiring Minds: The Path from $2.5m to $60m in a Tree BusinessThe ecosystem for serious acquisition entrepreneurs—education, capital, community, and post-close support to buy and grow a business: The Acquisition LabGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Constrained in her job and seeking more time for her kids, Ana Lia Barragan bought a $385k/yr, 30-year-old business. Register for the webinars:  Your First Finance Hires After Buying a Business - TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/3OvsNicReal Estate Issues When Buying a Business - Thu, Apr 16 - https://bit.ly/3PYIhf8Topics in Ana Lia’s interview: Wanted flexibility while raising two young childrenHit promotion ceiling in corporate tech ladderJoined Beta Accelerator, buying businesses training programTreat LOIs like conversations, not commitmentsDIY diligence first to avoid costly mistakesSBA rule changes complicated future acquisition financingRecurring revenue lower than seller originally claimedLost major client after leadership cost-cutting shiftBuilt custom AI app for operations trackingBought a job first, business laterReferences and how to contact Ana Lia: LinkedInKelly GreenAna Lia’s LinkedIn post on how the new SBA rules affect herAna Lia’s LinkedIn post on the pre- and post-closing gap in understanding her business Gabe Perez on Acquiring Minds: One Couple, 4 Kids, and a Business 3 Hours AwayDarryl Lindie on Acquiring Minds: Hard but Fun: Transitioning a 77-Year-Old BusinessNick Haschka on Acquiring Minds: How One Small Acquisition Led to 9 More in 5 YearsWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 [email protected] 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

Jenna Whigham and her brother bought a large business for a search fund, then grew it 6x larger over the last 5 years. Register for the webinar: The Operator’s Perspective: Running a Business for an Owner - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/4va4hUmTopics in Jenna’s interview: Investment banking during the 2008 crisisLaunching a traditional search fund with her brotherGolden Retrievers led to an acquisitionAcquiring a $100 million companyFinancial risk of being a “price taker”Expanding through M&ASoftware “Trojan Horse” strategyHow they decide which states to expand toManaging a 25% staff turnover rateRealities of home care and compliance incidentsReferences and how to contact Jenna: LinkedInAbound HealthGet 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Joseph Cruz left a lucrative job in finance to pursue business ownership. Year 1 has gone well (despite losing his GM). Register for the webinars:  What Type of Franchise Is Right for You? - TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/48gn6eHThe Operator’s Perspective: Running a Business for an Owner - Thu, Apr 9 - https://bit.ly/4m7lSZ7Topics in Joseph’s interview: Growing up in a Filipino immigrant familyWhy aging infrastructure creates long-term opportunityThe laundromat that started it allRunning an “oh sh*t” business Construction seasonality in ChicagoLast-minute GM retirement before closingRunning the business while still working his W-2 jobThe scramble to digitize knowledge stuck in employees’ headsBuilding systems, vendor lists, and shared documentationSetting the company’s “emotional temperature” as the ownerReferences and how to contact Joseph: LinkedInA&A LinkedInA&A Equipment and Supply Co. Articles by Joseph: From Spreadsheets to Steel-Toed Boots: Lessons from the First Few Months as an EntrepreneurSmall Businesses are Small for a Reason: What It Really Takes to Modernize a 40-Year-Old Distribution BusinessThe Real Work Begins: Midway Through My First Year as a Business OwnerTop 10 lessons from my first year of owning a businessDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: Pioneer Capital AdvisoryIf you’re serious about buying a business, learn why Acquisition Lab members have a 40% success rate: 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

It took Robin Kovitz fours years to find her business, which she has built into an industry leader and her life's work. Register for the webinar: Quality of Technology (QoT) Report: Protecting Your Acquisition - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/4d9F2enTopics in Robin’s interview: Upbringing in the meat industryEarly career in investment banking and M&AHer 4-year search for a businessAlways visit the competitorsCritique of the 2-year search clock"Long-termism" and becoming a B CorpHer 3 non-negotiablesTurning around the gift basket businessSolving their storage problemThe payoff and price of high ambitionReferences and how to contact Robin: LinkedInBaskitsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherIf you’re serious about buying a business, learn why Acquisition Lab members have a 40% success rate: The Acquisition LabWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Jack Foster & Jake McLaughlin raised $2.8m to buy 10 Meineke stores. That equity has taken them further than expected. Register for the webinars:  Offshore Talent vs. AI for Business Buyers - TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/4bAIbTjQuality of Technology (QoT) Report: Protecting Your Acquisition - Thu, Apr 2 - https://bit.ly/4rUHngLTopics in Jack and Jake’s interview: Childhood friends turned business partnersLeaving Goldman Sachs, KKR, and Baird for entrepreneurshipWhy they chose the franchise roll-up modelConsolidating units within the Meineke systemApplying a first-principles approach to an unfamiliar industryPaying royalties as the price of product-market fitTechnician recruiting advantages of a strong franchise brandWhy they passed on car washes and quick lubeThe real timeline of the EV threat to auto repairBuying real estate and using sale-leasebacks for growth capitalReferences and how to contact Jack and Jake: Jack Foster’s LinkedInJake McLaughlin’s LinkedInMeinekeGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 Rohozov and produced by Pam Cameron

Corey Mullins had worked in the trade over a decade when he bought a tiny, failing HVAC business for its phone number. Register for the webinars: What Actually Makes a Good Deal? Patterns from 1,000+ Transactions- TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/4m4gsy5Offshore Talent vs. AI for Business Buyers - Tue, Mar 31 - https://bit.ly/4uW6rXGTopics in Corey’s interview: His 20-year career in HVACFailed buyout of the family businessSimultaneous launch and acquisitionBuying a truck and a phone numberBuild-to-sell philosophyGrowth through online marketingWaiting too long to hire managersTaking vacations no matter whatEvolution of the “Trade Dad”Exiting to private equity in under 4 yearsReferences and how to contact Corey: [email protected] By DesignPatrick LangePatrick Norris on Acquiring Minds: Buy & Build a Trash Business to a $4.4m ExitWork 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 [email protected], 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 protected] 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

Eric Donahue quickly grew revenue to $6m thanks to operational enhancements, culture tweaks, and a little good luck. Register for the webinar: What Actually Makes a Good Deal? Patterns from 1,000+ Transactions - Thurs March 26th - https://bit.ly/4lT2ajGTopics in Eric’s interview: Navy SEAL career and retirementPerforming the basics at a high levelHis tree service side hustleOld school proprietary searchBuying an off-market paving companyForgoing SBA for a conventional loanWorking in the field to learn the asphalt trade40% revenue growth in 13 monthsSplitting his crew to keep the team productiveUsing his military clearance to win jobsReferences and how to contact Eric: LinkedInPeninsula PavingHunter at Hanger LawLearn 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 [email protected] 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

After 25 years on The Street, Brian Anderson discovered passion in buying small businesses — despite brutal challenges. Register for the webinar: How to Handle Common Employee Issues When Buying a Business - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/4sa946lTopics in Brian’s interview: Career in investment banking/hedge fundsClosure of his firmPursuing small business as an asset classLow multiples are fairly valuedAcquiring in manufacturingLearning every operational function himselfAcquiring with no debtBeing away from his family M-FHis big mistake during CovidSelling to his COOReferences and how to contact Brian: LinkedInHis essay on the experience: Deco Manufacturing Summary and LessonsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 TwitterEdited by Anton Rohozov Produced by Pam Cameron

Naveen Vinta spends weekdays at the business he bought in Milkwaukee, away from home in Virginia. He's making it work. Register for the webinars:  Add-Backs to Cash Flow for SBA Loans - Tue March 17th - https://bit.ly/4luTdgdHow to Handle Common Employee Issues When Buying a Business - Thurs March 19th - https://bit.ly/4dnIwtDTopics in Naveen’s interview: Army experience as a tank mechanicFunding his MBA with his G.I. BillCapitalizing on “onshoring” tailwindsGetting brokers to take him seriouslySearching for a business one plane hop awayAcquiring an aerial work platform businessModifying lifts to make them “explosion proof”9-12 month sales cycleImproving employee moraleBeing away from his family during the weekReferences and how to contact Naveen: LinkedInBailey CranesGet 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 AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

After building a masonry business over 5+ years, Justin Escajeda bought his first company in 2018 and never looked back. Register for the webinars:   From Owner to Owner: Business Transition Lessons - TODAY - https://bit.ly/46K82p5Topics in Justin’s interview: His early career as a stone masonGrowing his side jobs into a companyLiquidating his real estate investmentsFocusing on masonry nichesAcquiring his first business for a 1.3 multipleRecruiting managers based on work ethicHis flat compensation and guaranteed bonus structureHow he prevents fraud and mismanagementKeeping company names the same after buyingThe personal cost of overseeing 11 companiesReferences and how to contact Justin: LinkedInEscajeda HoldingsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherLearn 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 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

After Megan McGee pivoted her search fund to a self-funded approach, she bought a business where she wanted to settle. Register for the webinars:   From Owner to Owner: Business Transition Lessons - Thu March 12 - https://bit.ly/4ctCJCwTopics in Megan’s interview: Family background in pest controlInternship with previous guest Edward McDonnellStarting out in traditional searchInvestors declined to support a deal she lovedPivoting to self-funded searchDeciding not to buy her dad’s businessBuying Virginia Guesthouses without an SBA loanBuying from a young sellerManaging 75 propertiesHer profitable first yearReferences and how to contact Megan: LinkedInTato Corcoran’s recap episode: How to 4x a Small ManufacturerEdward McDonnell on Acquiring Minds: Taking a Single-City Acquisition NationwideMatt Orley on Acquiring Minds: Buying for Brand (Then Growing 4x)GuesthousesGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Jonathan Taylor has quickly grown revenue 40% at his acquisition through digitization, process improvement, and sales. Topics in Jonathan’s interview: Searching while working full-timeHis “now or never” moment approaching 40Restricting his search to Los AngelesOver-equitizing the dealStructuring a forgivable seller noteAccepting 60% ownershipFinding long-term hold investorsBuying from a non-retiring sellerChristian stewardship principlesGrowing revenue 40%References and how to contact Jonathan: LinkedInAEK TechnologyPhil Koller on Acquiring Minds: Comfortable Concentration for a $800k SDE BusinessShaun Stimpson on Acquiring Minds: Started Mid-Career, Grew to $38m in 3 YearsLearn 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 free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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

After his first ownership experience ended badly, Joe Springsteen bought a $3.2m maintenance business that is thriving. Topics in Joe’s interview: Background in law and operationsDivorce as a catalyst for changeAcquiring a biohazard cleanup businessDoing cleanup himselfHis original growth thesis failedSelling the cleanup businessHis “Codie Sanchez phase”Prioritizing geography in his searchAcquiring an exterior cleaning businessBuilding competitive advantageReferences and how to contact Joe: [email protected] SystemsSam Rosati on Acquiring Minds: Shortening Your Search: Big 3 Little 2Work 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Edward McDonnell bought a local services business via traditional search fund and grew it to 8 branches across 5 states. Register for the webinar:  SMB Cybersecurity: Why Operators Need a Risk Assessment - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/4u2GO7dTopics in Edward’s interview: Mechanical engineering at HondaChoosing traditional search for budgetAcquiring an indoor plant/landscaping businessGoing in with no management experienceDigitizing the back officeConstantly repeating the company visionUsing EOS for efficient meetingsGrowing to 8 branches in 5 statesExiting and staying on as CEOSearching for his next business in VirginiaReferences and how to contact Edward: LinkedInBotanical [email protected] 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Scott Crosby weathered the challenges that come with buying a 4.5-employee services business, and Year 2 is looking up. Register for the webinars:  Common Legal Diligence Issues (and How to Handle Them) - TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/3OQhm4lSMB Cybersecurity: Why Operators Need a Risk Assessment - Thu, Feb 26 - https://bit.ly/4bY1KWeTopics in Scott’s interview: His 2 major career-defining moments20-hour days in film productionRisks of buying from younger ownersEconomic development resource centers: a hidden gemLooking for business-buyer fitUsing an analysis tool he found on TikTokFirst-time buyer mistakesReplacing nearly the entire staffUnderestimating the stress of ownershipModernizing dusty operationsReferences and how to contact Scott: [email protected] Services St. LouisScott’s interview prep sheetBuy the deal analyzer spreadsheetDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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 TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron

Tato Corcoran returns with updates on her ownership of a sink maker that had just $400k in revenue when she bought it. Register for the webinar:  Red Flags That Kill or Reshape Deals - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/4rsjvlaTopics in Tato’s interview: Growing her top line revenueFinding a mentor at StarbucksCreating an employee handbookReconfiguring the factory with new equipmentHow she implements extreme ownershipProfit First accountingBeing tied to the real estate marketGoals for her real estate portfolioBeing a woman in manufacturingWhen she may be open to sellingReferences and how to contact Tato: LinkedInBrandt Molded MarbleTato's first interview: When You Buy a Glorified Job, Not a BusinessExtreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif BabinProfit First by Mike MichalowiczGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherLearn 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 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

Don Grigg reflects on the different outcomes for 2 businesses he bought in his 30s, one of which became his life's work. Register for the webinar:  Red Flags That Kill or Reshape Deals - Feb 19th - https://bit.ly/468vw6WTopics in Don’s interview: Discovering his passion for manufacturingSearching for “small, broken companies” to acquireClosing on 2 businesses within 6 monthsHow plastics recycling worksScaling his plastics recycling businessPrivate equity is a poor fit for small business Exiting his business felt like losing familyHis son and daughter’s acquisitionValue of family businessesEntrepreneurship through acquisition as your life’s workReferences and how to contact Don: LinkedInNative WatercraftBonafide Kayaks Enough by John C. BogleGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

In addition to buying his own business, Evan DiLeonardi trades buy-side services for equity in other SMB acquisitions. Topics in Evan’s interview: Entering the Airbnb spaceJoining Ben Kelly’s acquisition groupBuying a commercial cleaning businessBeing a remote “workaholic”Realizing he bought a business in distressFirst year in survival modeGetting a team of great managers in placeHis “Equity in Kind” partner modelEnjoying search more than operationsBuilding a holding companyReferences and how to contact Evan: LinkedInQuality Cleaning ServiceGail Hamilton Azodo on Acquiring Minds: Buying to $4m Across 7 Sites in 3 YearsMeridian Peak CapitalWork 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 [email protected], 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 protected] 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

He started by buying a small flooring business in 2000. Today Paul Lajoie takes home $1m a year and works how he wants. Register for the webinar: Why Deal Flow Isn’t Your Biggest Problem - TOMORROW! - https://bit.ly/4ah8L1ETopics in Paul’s interview: Background in Big Six accountingBuying the first business he looked atPartnering with his brotherDownsizing his lifestyle in the beginningUnderestimating working capital needsDetailed partnership agreementsYou are not smarter than the sellerPivoting to remodeling after 2008 crashAcquisition vs startup success ratesHis BizBuyPro communityReferences and how to contact Paul: [email protected] Today NewsletterConfessions of a MillionaireGobundanceLearn 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 [email protected] 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

Andrew Kurzrok connected with his seller over his manufacturing background, leading to a successful deal and transition. Topics in Andrew’s interview: Background in science and national labsSpending all his time traveling for workWanting to stop traveling when his son was bornStudying management at YaleGaining management experience before searchingMaking a “no” listSuccess with cold calling business ownersPutting down 25% equityRegional moat of sheet metalHis “crawl, walk, run” approach to operationsReferences and how to contact Andrew: LinkedInHopewell Sheet Metal ManufacturingHeather Endresen’s working capital webinar: Working Capital for SMB AcquisitionsGet 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 AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Sensing untapped potential, Ville-Matias Vilén bought a sub-million manufacturer with good IP and global distribution. Topics in Ville’s interview: Desire to “eat what he kills”1990’s Finnish RecessionAversion to solving people problemsAcquiring a cattle brush manufacturerFunding his deal in FinlandPatents as a moatRelocating the manufacturing 5 hours awaySharing ownership with his family’s companyGoal to grow 5x in 5 yearsLong-term holdco visionReferences and how to contact Ville: LinkedInFinnEasyDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron

Despite success in corporate, Jarom Wren wanted more freedom, so he traded 5 figures of salary for 7 figures of revenue. Topics in Jarom’s interview: Realizing he was renting himself to a corporationMid-career risk assessmentSearching for a digital businessChoosing the lowest cost Q of E“Deals want to die”Risks of a 4-year old e-com businessOffering education as well as DIY productsDeciding against using ROBSBuying 70% of the companyHis first year report cardReferences and how to contact Jarom: LinkedInVanlife OutfittersHarley Sitner on Acquiring Minds: Building a Beloved Brand from a Tiny, Dying BusinessGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: Pioneer Capital AdvisoryConnect with Acquiring Minds: See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter

Family planning and entrepreneurship converged as Linh & Leo Van Deibel bought their first (and not last) business. Topics in Linh & Leo’s interview: Making the case for business acquisitionTaking family planning into accountSearching in the UK as a non-citizenBeing taken seriously as an Asian womanTheir goal of building a holdcoThousands of meetings with sellersSearch is a numbers gameBrutal IVF processGiving up on acquiring SaaSBuying an engineering consulting firmReferences and how to contact Linh & Leo: Linh Van Deibel LinkedInLeo Deibel LinkedInTheir acquisition, Infrastructure Design SolutionsLinh Tran on Acquiring Minds: The Dream Outcome: From $300k to $5m EBITDAGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Jacob VosWinkel searched in tertiary markets to find a successful flooring store, his platform to build something big. Register for the webinar: What You’re Really Paying: Net Working Capital & Net Debt Explained - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/49WI4AoTopics in Jacob’s interview: Recommending markets of 50k-100k peopleScraping BizBuySell listingsReaching out to 200 potential investorsRaising $1 million equity in 2 weeksAdvantages/disadvantages of searching under 30Moving across the country for the transitionFlying home on weekendsGrowing to reduce customer concentrationHis responsibility to employeesGrowing 50% in 2 yearsReferences and how to contact Jacob: Jacob’s YouTube channelFloors GaloreLinkedInJordan Dubin on Acquiring Minds: First Acquisition in March, $200m by Year EndLearn 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

George Stern leaned into changing consumer search habits when he bought a digital marketing agency doing mid-7 figures. Register for the webinars:  Which Franchise Industries Make Sense in 2026? - TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/4jQCN0UWhat You’re Really Paying: Net Working Capital & Net Debt Explained - Jan 22nd - https://bit.ly/49mgU5YTopics in George’s interview: Turning around an Amazon seller’s agencyAcquiring 2 small ecommerce businessesLoving the customers more than the productSelling his camping equipment businessAcquiring an SEO agencyExtreme difficulty getting a loanBig banks aren’t always betterChoosing cold calling despite challengesIndustry knowledge is overratedBeing a “recovering, type-A control freak”References and how to contact George: LinkedInGrant and Julia Hensel on Acquiring Minds: Quitting Consulting to Buy a $1m SDE AgencyWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 [email protected] 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

Phil Koller studied the concentration and key man risks in a distribution business well-suited to him — and went for it. Register for the webinar: From W2 to Owner Mindset: How to Think About Your Take-Home Pay - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/4r5RsI3Topics in Philip’s interview: Preferred working in a small companyHis friend talked him into real estate, then ETAInspired by Rich Dad, Poor DadImportance of having his wife on boardPaused search due to upcoming second childBought Roman Enterprises, an automotive paint distributorInherited exactly 1 employeeDid door-to-door sales to learn marketManaged customer and supplier concentration riskDrew perseverance from grandfather’s Holocaust survivalReferences and how to contact Philip: LinkedInRoman EnterprisesBen Jasper on Acquiring Minds: How to Buy a Manufacturer with $1m in Cash FlowJerod Pierce on Acquiring Minds: From SBA Loan to High 8-Figure Exit Download the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Matt Orley wanted to enter the short-term rentals space. Buying a business — and a brand he admired — was his way in. Register for the webinars: DO’s and DON'Ts of the LOI -  TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/3YtLIvpFrom W2 to Owner Mindset: How to Think About Your Take-Home Pay - Jan 15th - https://bit.ly/4qJ1Xk5Topics in Matt’s interview: Investment properties as a side hustleEvolving short-term rental ecosystemDifficult transition with the sellerInfluence of Airbnb on customer expectationsImportance of clear communicationRolling up property management companiesConcentrating on one region of the countryDifference between urban and rural marketsLaunching a membership programPutting the brand first when making decisionsReferences and how to contact Matt: LinkedInInstagramRed CottageGet 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Adam Vandermyde had to be persuaded to acquire the $15m business that he ultimately professionalized and exited to PE. Register for the webinar:  How to Present Your Deal for Maximum SBA Success - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/3KW7aWLTopics in Adam’s interview: Leaving consulting 2 months from making partnerTaking on the CEO role at the target before closingFocusing on EBITDA over revenueA construction mistake that cost the company dearlyParsing data to understand “margin per labor dollar”Advantages of being in a high-growth geographical areaImproving customer service to stand outExiting after 5 yearsAdrenaline rush of sharing his payday with employeesHow it feels to be a millionaireReferences and how to contact Adam: LinkedInGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 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

Joe Odell and his partner acquired a business with over $4m in earnings and lots of green flags. It went sideways fast. Register for the webinar:  How to Present Your Deal for Maximum SBA Success - Jan 8th - https://bit.ly/4snUKHYTopics in Joe’s interview: His blue collar, military backgroundVolunteering without pay for a consulting companyUltimately rejecting the tech industryFinding his search partner at business schoolSeeking out a complex businessDoing traditional search, on his wife’s adviceAcquiring a home health adjacent companyPost-close cash crisisLosing a key sales repFatal “pen stroke risk”References and how to contact Joe: LinkedInGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

The first business Joe Soelberg bought did $400k SDE. The experience and cash flow enabled a second, larger acquisition. Topics in Joe’s interview: Leaving corporate for a chance to manage P&LHis toughest pitch was to his wifeAcquiring a 3D design firmPivoting hard during CovidHiring a manager with a design backgroundAcquiring a branding agencyDifference between branding and marketingRetainer model for recurring revenueOffering less than listing priceHis hand-off relationship with his businessesReferences and how to contact Joe: LinkedInPoint B CommunicationsSONNY+ASHMike Curry on Acquiring Minds: It’s All Your Fault: How to Become CEO of Your AcquisitionJohannes Hock on Acquiring Minds: Buy and 3x a Project Based Business in Just 2 YearsWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 [email protected] 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

Former pro bowler Mike Fagan bought a $2m bowling center with a plan to roll up and rejuvenate these legacy businesses. Topics in Mike’s interview: His professional bowling careerConnecting with a bowling-specific brokerEconomic role of league bowlersThe decline of bowling in AmericaTraditional bowling vs BowleroBuying a traditional, older bowling alleyRunning leaner to pay down debtEmployee resistance to changeSuccess with online bookingsHis goal of managing remotelyReferences and how to contact Mike: LinkedInTenpins & MoreBowling Alone by Robert D. PutnamCarlo Santelli on Acquiring Minds: ​​How to Buy a $13m Business with No PG, No InvestorsWebinar: Using a Sale-Leaseback to Buy a BusinessLearn 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Tato Corcoran packed a lifetime of learning (and tears) into 18 months when she left tech & bought a tiny manufacturer. Topics in Tato’s interview: Connecting with sellers through direct mailHer “Say yes and figure it out later” approachDifficulty in hiring unskilled laborHow she solved her labor issueBeing a single woman in a male industryLearning Spanish to communicate with her employeesHemorrhaging money the first 8 monthsRaising prices 40% without losing customersThe difference between good growth and bad growthDoubling top line revenueReferences and how to contact Tato: [email protected] direct mail piece Tato used to reach business ownersDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 Twitter

The construction services business Christian Bateson bought will do $7.5m in 2024. It also rescued him from the depths. Topics in Christian’s interview: His front row seat to the 2008 financial crisisQualities of a top salespersonBusiness acquisition as a way out of a miserable careerShopping around for an SBA loanChoosing to play to his strengths and outsource his weaknessesDifficulty in hiring for constructionBouncing back and growing after Covid lossesRed flags he ignored when acquiring his second businessHow his finance background benefited himHis $100 million goalReferences and how to contact Christian: LinkedInResolute ServicesGet 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Respected consumer brands are not common in lower middle market acquisitions, but Philip Hussey and Chenmark bought one. Topics in Philip’s interview: Chenmark’s acquisition of Thomas MoserLeading a furniture business as a non-craftsmanChenmark’s hold-forever intentionWait times for custom, hand-made furnitureLong tenure of craftsmenCommitment to world-class qualityGetting away from offering discountsBuilding talent through their woodworker schoolRunning a company with a strong legacy behind itDownside to owning your manufacturingReferences and how to contact Philip: LinkedInThos. MoserChenmarkGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherLearn 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 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

Robert Gayden worked for over a year to buy a home care business. Revenue kept growing but the price remained the same. Register for the webinar:  What Killed Deals in 2025 - TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/44r1pH5Topics in Robert’s interview: Influence of his late fatherThe “go bigger” search philosophyAppeal of the home health care industry17-month acquisition processChoosing to operate “in the weeds” of the businessLeading with high expectationsFocusing on increasing salesAchieving 15% growth in 8 monthsWorking capital dynamics in home careInvesting in employeesReferences and how to contact Robert: LinkedInAizik Zimerman on Acquiring Minds: Founder Mode for ETA $6m to $25m in 3 YearsMorgan McCauley on Acquiring Minds: How to Buy a $2.5m Home Care BusinessDevin Fitzgerald on Acquiring Minds: Buying $5m of Revenue with $50k of EquityRobert Graham & Aaron Blick on Acquiring Minds: How to Build a Roll-Up to $60m RevenueJérôme Bouillon on Acquiring Minds: How to Buy & Double a Home Care AgencyGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Scott Duncan endured brutal ups & downs — and personal depression — during his ownership of a doomed tool & die business Register for the webinar:  How to Model an Investor-Backed Search Acquisition - TODAY! - https://bit.ly/3XysjZBTopics in Scott’s interview: Wishing he had listened to his gutThe risk of EBITDA (vs. revenue) concentrationManaging highly skilled primadonnas Employee theftLosing key employeesLong sales cycles and fixed quotesForced Covid shutdownRazor and blade business modelFacing aggressive creditorsFiling Chapter 7References and how to contact Scott: LinkedInLearn 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 [email protected] 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

Andy Rougeot launched remote territories of the blue collar business he bought, which led to $1.7m of EBITDA and an exit Register for the webinars:  How to Invest In SMBs (Without Buying One Yourself) - TOMORROW!! - https://bit.ly/4rBI4NbHow to Model an Investor-Backed Search Acquisition - Dec 11th - https://bit.ly/4owBkNWTopics in Andy’s interview: His experience as an Army intelligence officerWhen in doubt, do the dirtiest jobThe military concept of “left seat, right seat” trainingSearching from the public libraryVeterans are well-suited to blue-collar leadershipRewards of leading young menGaining warm leads in new marketsHis team’s competitive edgeExiting his business to run for mayor of DenverInvesting in self-funded searchersReferences and how to contact Andy: LinkedInSearch Fund Secondaries GroupAndy’s webinar: Liquidity Options for Search InvestorsWork 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 [email protected], 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 protected] 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

Steve Carroll started as an SBA searcher before pivoting to a PE-backed roll-up. It's gone better than he ever expected. Register for the webinars:  How to Run the SBA Deal Race - TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/3Xh3WQbHow to Invest In SMBs (Without Buying One Yourself) - Dec 9th - https://bit.ly/44Gylv1Topics in Steve’s interview: Experience working for WalMart corporateSearching while working full timeMyth of passive incomeLarge dead deal costs from a failed acquisitionPartnering with his childhood friendUnderestimating working capital needs100-hour weeks away from his familyRapidly scaling through M&ABeware owners who leave quicklyAchieving $1 billion in revenue in 5 yearsReferences and how to contact Steve: LinkedInKelso IndustriesDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron

Jake Bittner bought an unprofitable carve-out doing $3m. A key pivot grew revenue to $20m and got the attention of PE. Register for the webinar:  How to Run the SBA Deal Race - Dec 4th - https://bit.ly/44whqv6Topics in Jake’s interview: Building a nest egg before leaving his jobFallout from his father’s failed businessesCalculating the value of a business losing moneyDisliking the bureaucracy of large companiesJoining his friend to run a distressed companyEmployee war storiesChanging the service they offeredAchieving 60% margins Boosting customer retentionSelling the company for 11x earningsReferences and how to contact Jake: LinkedInMission Support PartnersGet 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 AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Dave Gilbert spent 2 years fixing the model and customer concentration of the $750k SDE family business he bought with SBA debt. Topics in Dave’s interview: Leaving tech to buy a white collar businessMeeting with 120 owners while searchingBuying a business he initially passed onRisks of family members as employeesFinancial surprises after the transitionLosing 23% of revenue when clients leftAccountants do not like changeRecruiting top talentImportance of listening to employeesTransferring his zero-to-one skillsReferences and how to contact Dave: ProvenLinkedInGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Taylor Mattingly found high-quality revenue in an unusual and sizable B2C business that he happened to be a customer of. Topics in Taylor’s interview: Being Co-CEO with his best friendBuying a business he was a customer ofAcquiring a business in his hometownConfusing, deregulated Texas energy marketHow Energy Ogre differs from a typical brokerKeeping his call center in Texas“Set it and forget it” model“Listening tour” in the first 100 daysAdopting the EOS modelHigher leverage deal structureReferences and how to contact Taylor: LinkedInEnergy OgreGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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

From the acquisition of a tiny refrigeration business, Linh Tran has built an enterprise that earns millions annually. Register for the webinar:  What a Good Investor Pitch Looks Like -TODAY!! - https://bit.ly/3LYM4H2Topics in Linh’s interview: The "Three Rs" search criteriaBeing an undercover owner for 18 monthsEliminating 70-hour workweeks for his techsStruggling with work-life balanceImplementing value-based pricing80% rule for delegationWhy he doesn’t want to exitFostering deep employee loyaltyCorporate philanthropy and legacyWhat money can’t buyReferences and how to contact Linh: [email protected] Fund GroupLearn 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 free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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

Greg Geronemus bought a highly-profitable travel business at favorable terms, helping to ensure a great return on exit. Register for the webinar:  What a Good Investor Pitch Looks Like - Nov 20th - https://bit.ly/47YbVXjTopics in Greg’s interview: Challenges of searching in New YorkCobbling together a search fund in earlier days of searchStrategy of cold email outreachAcquiring at age 26Partnering with a friendSignificant challenges of running a tour operatorDigital marketing did not move the needleDirect mail was the silver bulletPartnering with universities and religious groupsExiting after 4 yearsReferences and how to contact Greg: LinkedInFootbridge PartnersKatherine & Rahul on Acquiring Minds: Why Choose Ownership Over Being a CEOWork 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Gail Azodo discovered a method of buying audiology practices with 100% financing. She's moving quickly to buy and build. Register for the webinar: Financing Your Deal: SBA vs. Non-SBA - TODAY - https://bit.ly/4p4J2Q7Topics in Gail’s interview: Managing brands at Proctor and GambleHer vision to run her own companyLife changing power of hearing aidsSwitching her search from Vision to AudiologyConsequences of untreated hearing lossFinancing through hearing aid manufacturersCross-licensing her providers in multiple statesAddressing the Audiologist shortageIntentionally acquiring where she does not live Find what “brings the flies to the honey”References and how to contact Gail: LinkedInReal Hearing USABruce Vann on Acquiring Minds: How to Grow a Manufacturing BusinessDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

After chafing under the constraints of being a CEO, Katherine Butler-Dines & Rahul Desai bought a business of their own. Register for the webinar: Financing Your Deal: SBA vs. Non-SBA - Nov 13th - https://bit.ly/47OQpUATopics in Katherine and Rahul’s interview: Katherine’s early CEO experienceBoard conflicts pushed her toward majority ownershipAcquiring without a traditional bank loanConvincing the seller to do a seller notePaying the seller note with float from advance bookingsRahul built custom software to increase marginsSearching nights and weekends while at their W-2sAffordability of living in the midwestVision of acquiring and integrating more travel businessesLearning to delegate and enjoying free timeReferences and how to contact Katherine and Rahul: Katherine’s LinkedInRahul’s LinkedInAffinity Travel Co.Shell Zhang on Acquiring Minds: Buying a Not Boring Business with $600k SDEJared Benoff on Acquiring Minds: Why Buy a Travel Agency (Because They Can Crush It)Get 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

Clayton Collins acquired HousingWire with a big vision for the small media business. 9 years later, it has come to life. Register for the webinar: Overcoming Risks from a Lender’s Perspective -  TODAY! - https://bit.ly/3WxDKAsTopics in Clayton’s interview: Hire for your skill gapsFlying around the country to meet investorsAsking for warm introductionsSelling investors on his strategic visionWhat to look for in a media companyDirect relationships with advertisers vs. programmatic adsRebuilding the sales team over and overRiding the wave of the mortgage industryMaintaining the magic of annual eventsSelling print ads differs from selling digital adsReferences and how to contact Clayton: LinkedInHousingWireNathan Gregory on Acquiring Minds: Business-Buyer Fit in a 42-Year-Old Media BizGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Both buyer Jared Lenner and seller Dave Serwitz share their perspectives on the acquisition of a 20-year-old business. Register for the webinars:  Investor-Backed Search and SBA: Buy Bigger, Keep Control - TOMORROW! - https://bit.ly/4qABMgnOvercoming Risks from a Lender’s Perspective - Thu Nov 6th - https://bit.ly/4qDoJdVTopics in Jared & Dave’s interview: Jared buying Dave’s tutoring businessDave’s motivation to sellChoosing to work with Search Fund AcceleratorTheir agreement to “assume positive intent”Why Dave didn’t sell to private equityHow the in-person business survived CovidBookkeeper quit right after transition“Other people’s money is scarier than a PG”Competing with AI in the futureHow it feels to sell your companyReferences and how to contact Jared & Dave: Dave Serwitz LinkedInJared Lenner LinkedInGrade Potential TutoringMarc Anderegg on Acquiring Minds: So Much Fun: The Buyer of Choice in a Fragmented IndustryGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: Pioneer Capital AdvisoryConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channel Connect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron

Shaun Stimpson had worked for two decades before pivoting to buying businesses in a different industry. He's moved fast. Register for the webinar:  Tax Issues: Entity and Deal Structuring - TODAY! - http://bit.ly/47CVZuiTopics in Shaun’s interview: Staying in corporate was the riskier choiceCalling 1200 businesses during his searchGoing back to school to learn more about acquisitionAcquiring with his partner, Robert WolfRaising $6m from outside investorsLeaning on his professional networkChoosing his investors carefullyAcquiring in his mid-40’sLong-term hold strategyAcquiring 3 businesses in successionReferences and how to contact Shaun: LinkedInMitten FluidpowerFLN-MARFrank Murken ProductsWork 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Ania Aliev was so eager to buy her business, she worked the deal while in labor at the hospital. It's been worth it. Register for the webinar:  Tax Issues: Entity and Deal Structuring - Thu Oct 30 - http://bit.ly/43tlhIPTopics in Ania’s interview: Rushing to get a deal closed before giving birthUsing her people skills to connect with sellersSearching only in the Eastern USBuying an AED sales and service companyMyths about AEDsFiguring out the best pricing modelLack of competition in the industryDealing with “Mom brain”Willingness to say “I don’t know”Stickiness of customersReferences and how to contact Ania: LinkedinLife Support SystemsLearn 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 free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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

Despite skepticism from her US investors, Ivona Butcher bought (and tripled) a business in her native Czech Republic. Topics in Ivona’s interview: Doing business in a post-Soviet cultureDetermination to acquire in the Czech RepublicBuying a business as a married coupleGetting into exhibition services right before CovidLosing all revenue at onset of CovidPivoting to virtual eventsFinding work for their carpenters and metalsmithsAggressively re-negotiating their loan with the bankBuying back the seller note at a huge discountSurviving Covid and doubling EBITDAReferences and how to contact Ivona: Ivona ButcherCorbin ButcherBeireAdam Rao on Acquiring Minds: Reviving a Covid-Crushed Business: $0 to $6M in 3 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Ruchik Gandhi was a diligence CPA when he decided to get in the game himself. Becoming an owner has been an education. Topics in Ruchik’s interview: India > Australia > US immigrationDiscovery of the wonders of multiple arbitrageReceiving the deal from another searcherPaying a $20k finder’s feeBuying a fabrics and upholstery workroomLearning how to manage a blue-collar workforceMishandling employee relationshipsTaking feedback from his managersEarning the employees’ trustHis plan for growth in a fragmented industryReferences and how to contact Ruchik: LinkedInWindow 25Download the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Undeterred by self doubt, Danyelle Nys bought a $400k SDE business at a fantastic price. She's grown it 25% in year one. Topics in Danyelle’s interview: Working in her family’s asphalt businessLearning about ETA from a masterclassHiring a coach for the search processBuying a business for the price of inventory + working capitalThe seller was running it remotelyRaising prices and salaries after acquisitionDealing with an obstinate commercial landlordMoving 14,000 sq ft of inventory to a new warehouseHiring her mom as the bookkeeper“F*** your mood. Follow the plan.”References and how to contact Danyelle: LinkedInDecorus Home StagingKyle Boyden & Jake Furfaro on Acquiring Minds: Stacking Small Acquisitions to $5m in RevenueGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherLearn 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 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

When his deal died the first time, Kyle Poll was devastated. But then it came back around, larger and more interesting. Topics in Kyle’s interview: Skills he learned on his 2-year Mormon missionGrowing Gympass from $10m to $100mAiming for happiness at work and homeEarning the respect of brokersWatching his deals die and being outbidQ of E that drastically lowered the business valueEmotional rollercoaster of full-time searchCompleting his acquisition as CEO with equityFinding investors who would bet on growthMerging 2 rival companiesReferences and how to contact Kyle: LinkedInGetOutPassThe Mormon Way of Doing Business by Jeff BenedictGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Brian Seeling sought a blue-collar business with a good manager in place. He found exactly that — with $2.6m in revenue. Register for the webinar:  Tactical EQ to Win Over Sellers and Brokers - TODAY! - https://bit.ly/46MlUhCTopics in Brian’s interview: Being an entrepreneurial kidMoving from IT to blue-collarGetting value from SMBootcamp“Riches are in the niches”Satisfaction of developing peopleNot all SBA lending is the same“Billionaires do business with billionaires”Tactfully bringing about changeContinuing the commission-based compensation modelReplacing old tech in the businessReferences and how to contact Brian: LinkedInPGM ServiceWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 [email protected] 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

Nick Keegan owned a struggling software business doing just €1m/yr until an acquisition put it on the path to 9 figures. Register for the webinars:  How PACT Simplifies Investor Deals Using SBA - TOMORROW! - https://bit.ly/42jGpB2Tactical EQ to Win Over Sellers and Brokers - Thu Oct 9th - https://bit.ly/48wqcMPTopics in Nick’s interview: 10 years in the Irish Defense ForcesHis app idea that ultimately failedPivoting his failed business into Mail MetricsSuccessfully competing against larger print companies7 years of slow growthAcquiring 2 large companies simultaneouslyHiring a tutor to teach him basic financeBuying one business in Ireland and one in the UKBorrowing at a very high interest rateIncreasing revenue by $12m in one yearReferences and how to contact Nick: LinkedInMail MetricsLearn 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Onu Okebie and Brian Boland wanted to retain 100% ownership when they began, so they used an SBA loan. It has paid off. Register for the webinars:  The ABCs of Franchise M&A: Deal Sourcing, Diligence, and Integration - TODAY! -  https://bit.ly/481yThOHow PACT Simplifies Investor Deals Using SBA - Tue Oct 7th - https://bit.ly/48FjAvqTopics in Brian and Onu’s interview: Forming a partnership in business schoolSearching for 2.5 yearsClosing on their first business while still in schoolBootstrapping their first acquisitionSacrifice and long commute the first yearWillingness to “be bad at something”Complexity of niche/time-sensitive freightAthletic grit carried them through acquisition challengesLearning to pitch to investors5 acquisitions in less than 5 yearsReferences and how to contact Brian and Onu: Brian LinkedInOnu LinkedInHTL FreightWebinar: Use an SBA Loan to Start a Roll-UpDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Aizik Zimerman bought a home services business to build a consumer brand into his life's work. It seems to be working.  Register for the webinar:  The ABCs of Franchise M&A: Deal Sourcing, Diligence, and Integration - Thu Oct 2nd -  https://bit.ly/46E2uv8Topics in Aizik’s interview: There is endless opportunity in home servicesHis goal of $1 billion in revenueAdvantage of his youthful energyGoing all-in on digital advertisingSmall business = big problemsFounder Mode theoryOrganic growth over acquisitionsYour must earn your right to diversifyWinning on Google with reviewsHiring overseas for auditing and marketingReferences and how to contact Aizik: LinkedInJohn Wilson on Acquiring Minds: Buying Small, Growing Big: From $1m to $26mGet 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

James Bohannon of family office Belzberg & Co. explains the FO world and its untapped potential for searchers & sponsors. Topics in James’s interview: What is a family office?Family office capital sustains private marketsYou may wear jeans, but there are tradeoffsPrivate, insular nature of family officesHow to network with family officesWhen it makes sense to exit to a family officeLong-term holds are a good fitPlaying defense and offense within family officesFamily offices do not need to raise capitalFamily offices may be friendlier to smaller dealsReferences and how to contact James: LinkedInGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 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:  Liquidity Options for Search Investors - Wed Sep 24th - https://bit.ly/48lptOcJack Saville was asked if owning a small business was underutilizing his talents. The question prompted a big decision. Topics in Jack and Sam’s interview: Jack’s motivation to own something and take a riskYou are always buying a jobLinking up with Sam Rosati through SMBootcampBuying a business far from his familyRealizing that he didn’t want to operate a lifestyle businessDifficulties of growing in a tourist townSelling the business to Perimeter Solutions GroupJoining the leadership of Perimeter Solutions GroupContinuously question your whyGetting in the game unlocks opportunitiesReferences and how to contact Jack and Sam: Sam Rosati LinkedInJack Saville LinkedInPerimeter Solutions GroupSam Rosati on Acquiring Minds: How to Shorten Your Search: Big 3, Little 2Sarah Chiles and Matthew Ferguson on Acquiring Minds: Geography as Moat: Building a Hometown HoldcoGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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:  Liquidity Options for Search Investors - Wed Sep 24th - https://bit.ly/41WmQymEmployee Issues & Non-Competes When Buying a Business - TODAY!- https://bit.ly/4nrvvkDMark Anderegg built the largest private daycare business in New England. He loved the model so much he's doing it again.  Topics in Mark’s interview: Raising a search fund himselfBeing the “world’s worst searcher”Acquiring a 16-location childcare networkPressure of running an essential businessThe unsolved staffing conundrumScreening for cultureUnderestimating the cost of new locationsEarning a high-integrity reputationGrowing through acquisitionSelling the business twiceReferences and how to contact Mark: LinkedInLittle SproutsA.J. WassersteinDavid M. DodsonLearn 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 [email protected] 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:  Employee Issues & Non-Competes When Buying a Business - Thu Sep 18th - https://bit.ly/4mbU9EIJerod Pierce bought an HVAC business with $500k of SDE. Five years later, private equity was desperate to buy him out. Topics in Jerod’s interview: Challenging upbringing in foster careAdaptability as a survival skillJoining the investment club in collegeGetting his MBA from Harvard Business SchoolLearning about ETA from Rick and RoyceSearching only in Seattle by cold callingBuying HVAC before it was coolValue of being there every dayExiting for $90 million-ishHis nightmare second acquisitionReferences and how to contact Jerod: LinkedInOlympic Holdings InvestmentsWork 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 [email protected], 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 protected] 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:  Buyer of Choice Series Pt 1: Building Your Personal Buyer Brand (in a Sea of Searchers) - TODAY!- https://bit.ly/46ntJLGDoug Lepisto has partnered with 7 searchers to acquire businesses strictly in Western Michigan. Momentum is building. Topics in Doug’s interview:  Having one foot in academia, one in businessPlace-based private equity modelDelivering returns while elevating Western MichiganCompetitive advantage through building local trust“Find the operator, find the deal” philosophyInvesting in searchers with one-on-one educationThe tide is shifting to long-term hold strategyWestern Michigan students intern at portfolio companies5 elements of his private equity modelPlenty of businesses, shortage of owner-operatorsReferences and how to contact Doug: LinkedInSleeping Giant CapitalCenter for Principled Leadership and Business StrategyGet 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 AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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:  Buyer of Choice Series Pt 1: Building Your Personal Buyer Brand (in a Sea of Searchers) - Thu Sep 11th - https://bit.ly/4pcznI8Jeremy Hunka bought a $2m cabinet business, and year one consumed him. Leadership had to evolve for things to improve. Topics in Jeremy’s interview: Buying a business at age 27Rocky first day as ownerLiving 1.5 hours from the businessEmployees wanting him present every dayTaking too long to fire an employeeWatching sales drop dangerously lowFacing resistance from employeesLearning to balance empathy with boundariesHiring a great sales leaderInstalling a CEO to run the day-to-dayReferences and how to contact Jeremy: LinkedInSummit Mountain CoatingsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron

Register for the webinar:  Love & Leverage: Lessons from Couples Who Acquired Together - TODAY! - https://bit.ly/4mBLyw5Brett Maxam bought a concrete business with high 6 figures of earnings. Despite being a plane ride away, it's gone well. Topics in Brett’s interview: His desire to “run the show” after watching acquisitions up closeInvolving his wife as a sounding boardBuying a business a plane ride awayProactively negotiating for a seller note“Shut up and let them do a little more talking”Using ROBS to fund a 30% down paymentGetting a 70% seller note with a sub 3x multiple13-week cashflow forecast is criticalDelegating management to the local teamDeciding whether to grow the business or acquire againReferences and how to contact Brett: LinkedInGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 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:  Love & Leverage: Lessons from Couples Who Acquired Together - Thu Sep 4th - https://bit.ly/47PpZ6LFelipe Corcuera bought an automation company that didn't offer AI. Since ChatGPT was released, he has had to adapt. Topics in Felipe’s interview:  Imperfect information in the lower middle marketPivoting from investing to operatingFinding a partner with complementary strengthsHow he defines success during searchAI threats to traditional SaaS businessesTesting for seller motivationValuation based on revenueAggressively reinvesting in the businessPros and cons of being an AI companyEconomics of sharing deals for a finder’s feeReferences and how to contact Felipe: LinkedInBeeckerRelay InvestmentsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

About fall conferences:  Southeast Entrepreneurship through Acquisition Conference2025 Buy Then Build SummitMcguireWoods Independent Sponsor ConferenceM &A Launchpad's Fall Show (use ACQUIRINGMINDS for a discount)Despite tight search criteria, Daniel Batista found a business that excited him. The eye-popping margins were a bonus. Topics in Daniel’s interview: His experience in the film industryLaunching a Latino media brandSearching for a fun businessAcquiring an indoor playground LA demographics are perfect for this businessHigh initial installation costs but 50% EBITDA marginsCandeeland Kids’ unique franchising structureSurprisingly low maintenance costsTeenage hourly laborAdding an arcade to his locationReferences and how to contact Daniel: LinkedInCandeeland Kids DowneyShell Zhang on Acquiring Minds: Awakening to Entrepreneurship to Buy a Not-Boring BusinessSam Rosati on Acquiring Minds: How to Shorten Your Search: Big 3, Little 2Work with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 [email protected] 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

About fall conferences:  Southeast Entrepreneurship through Acquisition Conference2025 Buy Then Build SummitMcguireWoods Independent Sponsor ConferenceM &A Launchpad's Fall Show (use ACQUIRINGMINDS for a discount)Kyle Boyden & Jake Furfaro bought tiny cleaning companies, five times. While painful, it taught them ops & integration. Topics in Kyle and Jake’s interview: Leaving a “cushy sales job” to buy a businessDoing no due diligence on the first acquisitionCons of property managementTrading property management for janitorialBuying very small cleaning businessesLosing faith in SBA loan underwritersEducating sellers about valuationSeller financing on all 7 dealsSupport from previous ownersNo more acquisitions for nowReferences and how to contact Kyle and Jake: Kyle Boyden LinkedInRainier Cleaning SolutionsLearn 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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: Overcoming Common Deal Sticking Points - Thu Aug 21st - https://bit.ly/4oB4zAkBryan Houck was fatigued of his search and broken deal costs when he finally closed on an award-winning creative agency. Topics in Bryan’s interview: Losing everything in a startup at 41Discovering his personal talentsUsing a buy-side advisorUps and downs of searchImportance of meeting the ownerBuying an in-person creative agencyThe “Superbowl winning” team at Extra Credit ProjectsTalking to clients about priceBuying a business at 58The “Stoopid Framework” he inventedReferences and how to contact Bryan: LinkedInExtra Credit ProjectsThe E-Myth Revisited by Michael GerberGet 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 [email protected] 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 TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron

Register for the webinar: Overcoming Common Deal Sticking Points - Thu Aug 21st - https://bit.ly/3UrzG3FJeff Horn left a lucrative path to buy a $5m copier sales and service firm. 5 years later he exited for a great return. Topics in Jeff’s interview: Feeling a calling to leadLeaving a high-paying job to searchYou have to check the character boxAcquiring a Xerox dealershipSpending the first 90 days building relationships3 buckets of growthLearning to rely on great employeesChallenges of scalingGrowing revenue from $5m to $30mExiting and becoming an investorReferences and how to contact Jeff: LinkedInMasked Rider CapitalJD Hasley on Acquiring Minds: How to Grow Revenue 50% in Year 1Download the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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

Smithlist 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 BusinessAfter success as a traditional searcher, Eric Calderon started building an industry-focused holding company in 2020. Topics in Eric’s interview: Accepting investment from Rick and RoyceAcquiring through traditional searchCommitment to community banksUps and downs of the oil and gas industry“You gotta tell your story to anyone who’s listening”Emotional challenges of downsizingShared services vs. decentralizationRecruiting patient capital for a long-term holdWhy $1m SDE is the target size for holdco acquisitionsEvolving from operator to investor References and how to contact Eric: LinkedInTXE CapitalRick & Royce on Acquiring Minds: The 2 Professors Who Helped Start the ETA MovementReid PennebakerETA Circle - HoustonGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsLearn 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

Smithlist 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 BusinessWhen Luis Reyes bought a small fire safety business, he saw an opportunity. 24 acquisitions later, he's at $8m EBITDA. Topics in Luis’s interview: Luis’s early careerLaunching a roll-up strategy in SpainIdentifying consolidation opportunitiesFirst acquisitions in poultry distribution and fire safetyBuilding and leading a team for a high-velocity, high-volume roll-upIntegrating operational-complex businesses at scaleLeveraging AI in fire safetySpain’s capital marketsAdapting acquisition criteriaGoal for the platformReferences and how to contact Luis: LinkedInIBVMinds Capital PodcastGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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: The "Plant Your Flag" Strategy: Build an Empire with ETA + Franchising - TODAY - https://bit.ly/3UH3w45After years of corporate success, Jesus Wong yearned for something else. When he discovered ETA, he knew he'd found it. Topics in Jesus’s interview: Childhood in Mexico and CanadaFamily history of entrepreneurshipBuying a Canadian garment repair businessLow capex, high labor costsStructuring his deal without the SBAMitigating the risk of high customer concentrationValue of a high-quality deal teamHigher closing costs in CanadaPaying 5% interest on his loanAnswering the call of entrepreneurship References and how to contact Jesus: LinkedInGear re-StoreVail ResortsPatagoniaScott Walton on Acquiring Minds: Building a $10m Platform from 2 Low-SDE BusinessesAndrew Stordeur on Acquiring Minds: $700k EBITDA with No SBA, No Money DownYan Vinarskiy on Acquiring Minds: From Searcher to Sponsor: How to Buy a $22m BusinessMarc Nzojibwami on Acquiring Minds: The Model for a 3-Way, Long-Term HoldcoHaifeng Hu of Bennett JonesKevin Yu of MNPJoey Tai of Crete CapitalLearn 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 free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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: The "Plant Your Flag" Strategy: Build an Empire with ETA + Franchising - Thu Aug 7 - https://bit.ly/45i7eGeAvery Tomek bought his first little $1m FedEx route with an SBA loan. 3 years later, he has 240 trucks and $600k weeks. Topics in Avery’s interview: Pivoting from real estate to FedEx routesUps and downs of CovidExpanding his fleetRunning his logistics business remotelyEverything hinges on weekly depositsWhat makes a route lucrative (or costly)No marketing or sales. Just operations.Resale value of a FedEx routeDemanding nature of the business“If you’re good, the world will compensate you.”References and how to contact Avery: LinkedInWork 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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

Smithlist 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 BusinessTyler & Zach Gordon's search for an overlooked industry with good prospects led to a franchise system of thrift stores. Topics in Tyler & Zach’s interview: Zach and Tyler’s backgrounds in franchisingLooking for career fulfillmentFormulating a search strategyFocusing on overlooked industriesDiscovering thrift store franchisingEvaluating franchise opportunitiesTransitioning from franchisee to franchisorStructuring the acquisition and partnershipFocusing their marketing on vendorsPrioritizing franchisee success and future growth References and how to contact Tyler & Zach: Tyler’s LinkedInZach’s LinkedInHorizon Point [email protected]@bcfranchise.com Uptown Cheapskate FranchiseKid to Kid FranchiseBuy a Franchise Portfolio: How to Choose a BrandDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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

Smithlist 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 BusinessAnica John bought a print-on-demand business to have more time with her kids without compromising her career ambitions. Topics in Anica’s interview: Experience at Amazon, WalMart, and Disney StreamingChoosing entrepreneurship over returning to officeBuying a publishing company for indie authorsHigh capex = moatDiversity of their genres and clientele Resurrecting a dead dealHow DiggyPOD stacks up to Amazon KDPCarefully planning tech upgradesAward-winning customer serviceRunning a business from out of stateReferences and how to contact Anica: [email protected] 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: Working Capital for SMB Acquisitions - TODAY - https://bit.ly/4kQcGGjAt a low point in life, Raj Kankaria was served papers. But he liked the business and bought a process-serving company.  Topics in Raj’s interview: From investment banking to process serverWhat he liked about process servingBuying the company from his bossBuilding industry relationshipsWhat TV gets wrong about process servingTechnology in process servingMaking changes on day oneCommunicating unpopular changes to employeesTrading a high salary for ownershipVision for business growth References and how to contact Raj: LinkedInLone Star Attorney ServiceGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 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 webinars: The Math & Logic of Deal Making - July 22nd - https://bit.ly/459kJJnWorking Capital for SMB Acquisitions - July 24th - https://bit.ly/4lBEhftEnrique Rodriguez bought a project-based construction business (gasp) with $1.4m in revenue. One year later it's at $4m. Topics in Enrique’s interview: 17 years in project-based constructionGetting his MBA and electrician’s licenseBuying too small for an SBA loanBringing a machine gun to a knife fightInjecting his own money during the J-curveDoing his own quality of earningsHis wife and father’s roles in the businessDisagreement with Walker Diebel Assertiveness in managing employeesCelebrating milestones with his teamReferences and how to contact Enrique: LinkedInMAC GeneralThe ReWild GroupMatthew Pohl on Acquiring Minds: 2 Welders and a Shop... to $3.8m in SalesJustin WillessJustin Willess on Acquiring Minds: Business Collapse After Going All-InGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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: Common Legal Diligence Issues (and How to Handle Them) - July 17th - https://bit.ly/4kwHlbwYan Vinarskiy began as a self-funded searcher but shifted his model mid-search when he found a business too big for SBA. Topics in Yan’s interview: Using a buy-side broker to search and closeBeing inspired to take on a large dealTrade-offs of independent sponsor economicsBoard dynamics and governanceBuilding a pitch deckRefining his investor pitchExpanding the business modelManaging 2 separate businesses References and how to contact Yan: LinkedInFloorguardCalder CapitalNiklas James on Acquiring Minds: Self-Funded Search vs. Independent SponsorshipMike Okhravi on Acquiring Minds: Doing It His Way: First-Timer Buys 2 at OnceLearn 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 [email protected], 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 protected] 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: Common Legal Diligence Issues (and How to Handle Them) - July 17th - https://bit.ly/4lo4SwuAccomplished CEO Marci LaRouech sought to build a business without investor pressure. A sub $1m HR firm was the way. Topics in Marci’s interview: Leading Makai HR through growth and exit as CEO2 reasons she likes project workComparing HR consulting and PEO business modelsAcquiring Seay HR with 40% seller financingLeveraging associations and networks for client growthBuilding a strong team for high-touch HR serviceGrowth in fractional HR workBecoming the leading HR firm for the pest control industryHow AI can be useful for human resourcesEase of hiring in HRReferences and how to contact Marci: [email protected] HRSeay HR ETA for SearchersIris Levine on Acquiring Minds: $6m Business, 3 Minutes From Childhood HomeWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 [email protected] 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

By reconceiving the paint dealership he bought as a marketing & sales organization, Ryan Adams pushed it to new heights. Topics in Ryan’s interview: Transferring from military to businessFocusing on selling one serviceUnderestimating working capital needsThe business tanked after acquisitionRescuing the company by fixing his sales processProperly incentivizing for the outcome he wantsLearning digital marketing himselfCost per acquisition metricWhere he finds good sales guysExpanding his territory by buying a competitorReferences and how to contact Ryan: LinkedInRhino Shield$100M Leads: How to Get Strangers To Want To Buy Your Stuff by Alex Hormozi Download the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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

Adam Rao took a chance on an exhibit production business that had generated zero revenue in 15 months. It's gone well. Topics in Adam’s interview: Discovering impact companiesAcquiring with a business partnerBuying a distressed business during CovidGetting 100% seller financingInheriting an angry, dysfunctional staffA brutal first 9 monthsAcquiring an add-on with an SBA loanHis role as the visionaryAchieving stability by merging companiesReducing waste in a high-waste industry References and how to contact Adam: [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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 TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron

Phil Miller turned a tiny pet shop doing $100k in sales into a regional pet boarding brand — and the ideal PE platform. Topics in Phil’s interview: Pivoting from real estate to the pet industrySlow renovation creating a financial messDelegation is the key to growthThe real cost of a cheap turnaroundBuilding a pet resort brandAccelerating growth with Store CapitalWhy franchising is a poor option in his industryDealing with tire-kicking searchersPartnering with private equityEmotional rollercoaster of combining cultures References and how to contact Phil: LinkedInPawvilleBuy Back Your Time by Dan MartellTaylor Wallace - first appearance on Acquiring Minds: Buying Doggy Daycares After 10 Years in TechTaylor Wallace -  second appearance on Acquiring Minds:Why Sell to Private Equity: Former Guest Has an ExitStore CapitalGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 Offshore in a Blue Collar Business - July 1st - https://bit.ly/406jR5kMatt Brunnig hired aspiring SMB owner Kevin Peer for special projects, strategy & more at his $3m manufacturing holdco. Topics in Matt & Kevin’s interview: Searching for a wife and a businessOvercoming the fear of uncertaintyLocally searching in St. Petersberg, FLLong term payoff of bringing donutsQuickly growing through marketingUsing Pinterest to stoke demand for their productIntroducing the Searcher in Residence conceptTrade-offs and benefits for the SIR and ownerAdditional acquisitions in manufacturingRunning the holdco with Traction References and how to contact Matt & Kevin: Matt’s LinkedInKevin’s LinkedInSunrise Yacht ProductsJJ PlasticsCustom Quality CoversTraction by Gino WickmanKevin's one-pagerGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherLearn 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 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: How to Offshore in a Blue Collar Business - July 1st - https://bit.ly/406jR5kA friend pressed Grania Michel to change her search as if she had to close in 4 months. She was under LOI 2 weeks later. Topics in Grania’s interview: Operating a business in EcuadorEmotional ups and downs during the search processKeeping her search private in the beginningSending LOIs as quickly as possibleAcquiring a commercial printing business in MiamiManaging the deal process, debt consolidation, and equity structuringTranslating her day one speech to Spanish on the flyLosing key employees after transitionWhy she recommends buying all the accounts payableBuilding a long-term legacy for her daughters References and how to contact Grania: LinkedInAssociated Photo & Imaging Tripp Lawson and Mike McCoy at Viking Mergers Joe Spina and Taylor Gorman at Cullen and DykmanAppleTreeJosh Richman at NewCo RiskAspen HRJared Johnson of First Internet BankSearch Fund CoalitionLearn 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 Offshore in a Blue Collar Business - July 1st - https://bit.ly/406jR5kBrian Hartman 3x'd revenue in 2 years at the tree business he bought, then partnered with an investor to grow even more. Topics in Brian’s interview: Picking up the phone is crucialGrowing so fast the wheels nearly came offHiring top-tier managers and ops staff earlyManaging cash flow and receivables through growthExpanding via acquisition, starting in DallasEnsuring safety for employeesPartnering with another Acquiring Minds guestAiming for $55–70M in revenue by 2030Buying a business with baby #3 on the wayHow landscaping is different from tree service References and how to contact Brian: LinkedInNorthside [email protected] with Brian: Should You Buy a Business?Adrian Pinto and Mike Botkin on Acquiring Minds: One Acquiring Minds Guest Buys AnotherAdrian Pinto #2: Building a Blue Collar EmpireAdrian Pinto #1: How to 2x Sales in a Service Business You BuyWill Gano on Acquiring Minds: After 4 Years of Part-Time Searching, SuccessJohn Wilson on Acquiring Minds: Buying Small, Growing Big: From $1m to $26mWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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 [email protected] 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: How to Offshore in a Blue Collar Business - July 1st - https://bit.ly/406jR5kWith no PE background, Nick Huber had to learn quickly as he raised money to acquire a fast-growing offshoring agency. Topics in Nick’s interview: Origin of the Sweaty Startup guyNick’s role in Support Shepherd’s growthBackstory of the Support Shepherd dealHow Nick structured incentives to make it worthwhileWhat turned off investorsInbound leads collapsing in year 1Is building a Twitter following worth it?Big changes to the business since acquisitionThe value (or not) of distributionAnnual cost and org chart of Nick’s media teamWhy write a bookReferences and how to contact Nick: [email protected] Sweaty Startup by Nick HuberSomewhere.comDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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 TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron

Register for the webinars: DO’s and DON'Ts of the LOI - Jun 17th - https://bit.ly/441EocMHow to Offshore in a Blue Collar Business - July 1st - https://acquiringminds.co/hiringKevin Ramsier bought a "guy in a truck" business for radon mitigation. 10 years later it was a multi-state franchise. Topics in Kevin’s interview: Finding ways to earn money as a kidBouncing back from early career setbacksThe Wall Street Journal ad that changed everythingTurning around a bankrupt concrete businessBuilding and scaling a radon mitigation companyUsing franchising to manage growth and quality control3 questions that transformed his lifeTransitioning into the role of an independent sponsorInvesting in people instead of public marketsHow he teaches his kids to value moneyReferences and how to contact Kevin: LinkedInSier Capital PartnersGet 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 AdvisoryGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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: SBA Loans 101 + Program Updates - Jun 12th - https://bit.ly/3FGQIqBSarah Chiles & Matthew Ferguson left careers in VC to buy the only auto repair shop for 35 miles in their native Aspen. Topics in Sarah & Matthew’s interview: Backgrounds in engineering and VCPreserving local fabric by buying businessesThe “tackle shop” nature of businesses in small townsSeasonality in a small resort townGaining the respect of employeesVision of a hometown holdcoCrisis management when their operator leftModernizing and restructuring the auto repair businessFinding out what each employee wantsLong-term commitment to Aspen  References and how to contact Sarah & Matthew: Sarah’s LinkedInMatthew’s LinkedInAspen Total AutomotiveShop Fix AcademySTM HoldingsAdam Markley on Acquiring Minds: Getting Reps: Helping Others Look at Deals Led to a HoldcoCassi Niekamp on Acquiring Minds: Buying a $1.2m Fencing Business & Earning Trust QuicklyGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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 RohozovProducer by Pam Cameron

Register for the webinar: SBA Loans 101 + Program Updates - Jun 12th - https://bit.ly/4jG0FSVAfter Evan Stewart found his footing in his printing business, he pushed it from $1.8m to $3.2m EBITDA in under 2 years. Topics in Evan’s interview: Experience in the Acquisition Lab6 months of imposter syndromeEarning the right to be heardChanges in direct mail printing technologyStanding out amongst fierce competitionHis wife joining the businessMoving his family to be closer to the businessAccepting investment from friends and familyPutting a lien on his house to get the loanBuying into a shrinking industryReferences and how to contact Evan: LinkedInDirect OneAlex Holley on Acquiring Minds: Networking His Way to $800k SDEGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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: How to Outsource Your Search: Understanding Buy-Side Advisory - Jun 5th - https://bit.ly/43PpR4RChristine Traylor is bringing entrepreneurial ambition to a business often dismissed as a side gig for retirees Topics in Christine’s interview: Pivoting from international development to business ownerAcquiring a historic B&B in Dupont Circle A seller who refused to negotiate on priceLiving on site with her family at the B&BCalculating the value of the real estateRaising 2 small children in their businessLong, frustrating buying processCombining SBA, conventional loan and seller noteDifficulty in hiring an innkeeperStanding out amongst the hospitality competitionReferences and how to contact Christine: [email protected] HouseInstagramWork 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 [email protected], 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 protected] 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: How to Outsource Your Search: Understanding Buy-Side Advisory - Jun 5th - https://bit.ly/44XWwX3JD Hasley bought an upscale frame shop doing $600k. One year later, he's returned all his equity & grown it to $900k. Topics in JD’s interview: Finding his business on broker’s own websiteBuying a retail frame shopWhy DFW is a great location for a frame shopLearning to do the framing himselfStanding out by answering email quicklyGetting customers to pay in full up front50% growth in the first yearOnline marketing to drive revenueHow frame shops scaleEmpowering employees to implement changeReferences and how to contact JD: [email protected] FrameLearn 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 [email protected] 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 Outsource Your Search: Understanding Buy-Side Advisory - Jun 6th - https://bit.ly/43q0JQRKin Sio first tried real estate as he explored a path out of tech, but buying a business was his ultimate destination. Topics in Kin’s interview: Immigrating from ChinaPivoting from tech to entrepreneurshipWanting more flexibility to care for familyDeciding against using ROBSRunning his Hawaiian business from SeattlePlans to expand to the mainlandBuilding and maintaining a company cultureConverting seller hours to human hoursManaging hotel room pricingHow culture influences risk takingReferences and how to contact Kin: LinkedInLights OnDoug Johns on Acquiring Minds: Opening Up to Franchises to Buy a Great BusinessGet 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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: Buy a Business, Not a Fantasy: Addressing This Month’s 7 Most Common Buyer Concerns - Wed May 28th - https://bit.ly/43u7otoWhen Julia Hensel decided to pursue entrepreneurship, husband Grant helped her find a remote business with a great team. Topics in Grant & Julia’s interview: Julia’s background at BCGGrant’s many zero-to-one businessesKey lessons learned from failed LOIs Why they avoided SBA loansThe acquisition of Lexigate and what made it the right fitStanding out in a competitive processIs AI destroying SEO?Meeting clients and employees before purchaseTransitioning from BCG to business ownershipLeading a mostly Romanian teamReferences and how to contact Grant & Julia: Julia’s LinkedInGrant’s LinkedInLexigateNonprofit MegaphoneEntrepreneurial CapitalThe Culture Map by Erin MeyerDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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: Use an SBA Loan to Start a Roll-Up - TODAY May 22nd - https://bit.ly/4jgfQSYCovid forced Scott Alexander to pivot & rebuild the marketing agency he'd acquired just one year earlier. It worked. Topics in Scott’s interview: Buying a digital marketing agencyDisappointment with the sellerUnderstanding customer churnPost-transition surprises with bookkeepingTurning around a bad company cultureWartime CEO vs Peacetime CEORevenue devastated during CovidRebranding and redirecting the companyUsing Facebook for medical salesMarketing Agency 101References and how to contact Scott: LinkedInJason Andrews on Acquiring Minds: How I Bought & Sold a Healthcare Business for 8 [email protected] MarketingGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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 webinar: Use an SBA Loan to Start a Roll-Up - Thu May 22nd - https://bit.ly/4kj566XDevin Fitzgerald bought two businesses after one sentence changed his life: It's easier to buy revenue than create it. Topics in Devin’s interview: Business is just solving problemsIt’s easier to buy revenue than create itLosing 8 months to a dead dealBuying 2 declining businessesTurning around a bad work cultureHerding sellers to the finish lineHow the new SBA rules affected his second acquisitionHonoring his grandmother’s memoryBringing high energy to workThe gift of getting to choose your teamReferences and how to contact Devin: LinkedInRML Service GroupGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsWork with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: Pioneer Capital AdvisoryDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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: Use an SBA Loan to Start a Roll-Up - May 22nd - https://bit.ly/4mays9pMichael Davidov bought a home care agency with an SBA loan. 6 years later, he's grown & acquired to $140m in revenue. Topics in Michael’s interview: His “other side of the table” moment in private equityPartnering to buy a home health agencyDigitizing a pen and paper businessSeeing his employees as customersNarrowly avoiding a payroll disasterGoing slow to go fastRapid growth through additional acquisitionsHis hiring criteria for leadersAbsorbing a business much larger than themselvesGrowing revenue beyond $100 million References and how to contact Michael: LinkedInPine Street GroupJonathan SassoverJerome Buillon: How to Double and Exit a Home Care AgencyWork 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 Use a Buy-Side Advisor to Buy a Business - Thu June 5th - https://bit.ly/3H4mduTThe original plan was for Lindsay Buckheit to buy a business. As husband Kevin Black got involved, that plan evolved. Topics in Lindsay and Kevin’s interview: Their desire to leave corporate lifeJoining Codie Sanchez’s Contrarian CommunityNo deals after 8 months of part-time searchingEnlisting AcquiMatch to help them find a businessClosing on 2 businessesOffering a higher sale price in exchange for a seller noteMitigating key man risk in both businesses Finding a bank to finance their acquisitionsWhy they recommend flat-rate due diligence servicesThe arduous loan application processReferences and how to contact Lindsay & Kevin: Lindsay LinkedInKevin LinkedInCollective Creative OutdoorsHoldsworth & NicholasAcquiMatchCodie SanchezLearn 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 free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] 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: Deal Structuring Under the New SBA Rules - TODAY May 8th - https://bit.ly/4jFLpX2Jason Jackson thought he bought a $1.5m SDE dental practice. In fact, the business was losing money & engaging in fraud. Topics in Jason’s interview: Value of pattern recognition in businessMissing fraud despite $400k of due diligenceTurning around a business with negative EBITDAWhen to fire a top performerFixing a broken work cultureWhy he decided not to sue the sellerHands-on learning in every roleChanging their revenue model during CovidFocusing on cash, culture, and communicationWhy his investors were thrilled with a 2x returnReferences and how to contact Jason: LinkedInJason’s partner Olaide LawalFutaleufu PartnersThe Manager’s Handbook by David DodsonGet 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 [email protected] 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 TwitterEdited by Anton RohozovProduced by Pam Cameron

Register for the webinar: Deal Structuring Under the New SBA Rules - Thu May 8 - https://bit.ly/4m7VH47Marvin Karlow & his partner bought a powder-coating business with $500k in equity. 8 years later, they exited. Topics in Marvin’s interview: Going from corporate to blue collar businessBuying a business with his best friendPicking a lane and staying in itBiggest customer slashing prices right after transitionPutting personal money into the businessLosing a major customerThe customer that turned it all aroundBuying 2 turnaroundsMerging and exiting the businessesTax savings through QSBSReferences and how to contact Marvin: [email protected] MarianiDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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:  Anatomy of a Franchise Holdco - Thu May 1 - https://bit.ly/4jreo0UDan Angel knew he wanted to buy this B2B travel company with $3m top line. But the sale would shock the key number-two. Topics in Dan Angel’s interview: Leaving his dream career at a hedge fundComing in a little too hot as the new ownerAdding 3 offshore employeesGrowth isn’t freeRunning a fully remote teamTrying to change the world by 9:00 amTopics in Jayme Moylan’s interview: Her 15 years working for Lodging SourceBeing blindsided by the acquisitionUncertainty over who to answer to while the seller was still thereFiguring out how to interact with DanReferences and how to contact Dan and Jayme: Dan Angel LinkedInJayme Moylan LinkedInLodging SourceSelf-Funded Search vs Traditional Search FundsSam Rosati on Acquiring Minds discussing Big 3, Little 2: How to Shorten Your Search to Buy a BusinessChris Williams on Acquiring Minds: System Six: One Year UpdateGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsLearn 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 webinar:  Anatomy of a Franchise Holdco - Thu May 1 - https://bit.ly/4k8HKBdJan Roll bought a $6m residential contractor, a harrowing experience he calls one giant ambiguous ball of figure-it-out. Topics in Jan's interview: Contracting means learning 25-30 tradesMargin of safety in a residential construction businessValue of paying vendors immediatelyEngendering trust in a low-trust industryRevenues dropping 25% in first year of ownershipUsing ROBS to buy the businessPitfalls in contractor licensingThe harm in not having an employee agreement with a business partnerHow to diligence a business partner (or can you?)How SEO & digital marketing supercharged leadsReferences and how to contact Jan: LinkedInVictoria RenovationsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: 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: Anatomy of a Franchise Holdco - Thu May 1st - https://bit.ly/3RWj0QhIn 2019, Matt Kopp bought a supplier to elementary schools with $350k SDE. 6 years later, he has a portfolio of them. Topics in Matt’s interview: Business buying market in AustraliaEliminating interruptions at workTracking email open rates to improve his outreachBuying a science class supplierChallenge of selling to schools without a relationship Overcoming people problems during transitionWeathering Covid lockdownsForming an education holdcoBeating out private equity for his last acquisition Selling to private equity after growing the businessReferences and how to contact Matt: LinkedInSimon Plummer on Acquiring Minds: From Frustrated Searcher to $3.5m Owner to Holdco BuilderPete Seligman on Acquiring Minds: Making a Career of Buying BusinessesEnduring Investment PartnersSouthern BiologicalHands on ScienceJunior RockersPrimary Music InstituteLearn 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 [email protected] $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: 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: [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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 protected] 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/4i7vsY5 With 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 [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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/3G9vf9F Adam 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/4ljGigo Keegan 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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/4ji2UMu Ken 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: [email protected]. 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 [email protected] 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/41RC4oN After 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 [email protected] $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 [email protected], 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 protected] 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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/41vg9SL The 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 NurseriesHarley 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: [email protected] 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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/3F6dasG The 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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/41lwPwc Webinar: 5 Stages of the Business Buying Process - Thu March 6 - https://bit.ly/41m0o0i Jonathan 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 [email protected] a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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: 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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/3QjGZYR First 100 Days: Survive & Thrive as a New Business Owner - Wed Feb 26 - https://bit.ly/4hCxC2G Subscribe 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: [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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 protected] 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 [email protected] 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/4aOwtlM Using a Sale-Leaseback to Buy a Business - Thu Feb 20 - https://bit.ly/4hQbn9e It 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 [email protected] 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/414vOtc Using a Sale-Leaseback to Buy a Business - Thu Feb 20 - https://bit.ly/42I4dPY Former 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: [email protected]’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 [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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/4aNHmEz Legal 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 [email protected], 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: [email protected]’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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherDownload the New CEO’s Guide to Human Resources from Aspen HR: From this page or contact [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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/3CbswuP Months 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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/3CbswuP Abhi 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 [email protected] 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: [email protected] Capital PartnersGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], and tell him you’re a searcherGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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: [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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 [email protected] 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: [email protected]: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: [email protected] InvestmentsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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: [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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/41ivxUl Fragmentation & 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 [email protected] Get a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or email [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] or visit Aspen HRGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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/4f0320C Michael 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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/3AMj6Fk Francisco 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 [email protected] del Rio LinkedIn [email protected] Latam VetGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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 [email protected] 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/3O0im2a Legal Office Hours: Understanding the Waterfall - Thu Nov 21 - https://bit.ly/3O3zqo2 Sam 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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/40HZtZK Legal Office Hours: Understanding the Waterfall - Thu Nov 24 - https://bit.ly/4hEzVTh The 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 wealth References 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 [email protected], 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: [email protected]://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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected], 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected], 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 [email protected] 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: Cap Tables 101: How Capital Structure Works When Buying a Business - Thu Oct 24 - https://bit.ly/3UihUQG How to Run a 2-Year Search in 2 Months - Friday Nov 1 - https://bit.ly/3UfYJqz Nik Hulewsky bought a $3.2m medical billing company during peak Covid, anticipating a surge in demand. He was right. Topics in Nik’s interview: Tragedy that ignited his passion for hospiceLosing his job while his wife was in laborSearching for a business to fit his skillsetIndustry is more important than businessMargins in home healthCalculating return on brain damageLearning firsthand about the J curveImportance of relationship with the sellerBeing in business with his brother-in-lawAdvice for young entrepreneursReferences and how to contact Nik: TwitterCofounders.comNikonomicsGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or email [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business: Email Nick Akers at [email protected] (and tell him you’re a searcher)Work 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: Cap Tables 101: How Capital Structure Works When Buying a Business - Thu Oct 24 - https://bit.ly/4dR5CWq How to Run a 2-Year Search in 2 Months - Friday Nov 1 - https://bit.ly/4dQifkn Kristiana Laugen left tech to buy a 40-year-old pool business with $300k SDE. Fast growth from a small base is the plan. Topics in Kristiana’s interview: Her career working for start-upsHer desire to “eat what she kills”Finding a business sooner than expectedAcquiring a commercial pool maintenance/repair businessHow commercial pool maintenance differs from residentialQuickly firing all but one technicianMaking changes in the first 90 daysSeller retained 5% equityUsing an app for routing efficiencyThe numbers game of hiringReferences and how to contact Kristiana: [email protected] Pools, Spas & FountainsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] or visit Aspen HRGet 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

Register for the webinar: Cap Tables 101: How Capital Structure Works When Buying a Business - Thu Oct 24 - https://bit.ly/3zTykbc Tech industry vet Eric Bauer wanted to build something for himself. Buying a hat brand across the country was the path. Topics in Eric’s interview: Skills he acquired during 10 years at AmazonMoving from Seattle to Alabama to buy a businessRed flags in business listingsComparing BizBuySell and Axial for business searchAcquiring a hat distributorSolving problems with hat sizingLearning how to motivate his staffHiring difficultiesInventory management complexitiesSelf-confidence as a business ownerReferences and how to contact Eric: [email protected] a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] or visit Aspen HRGet 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 email [email protected] 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: Due Diligence Office Hours - Wed Oct 16 - https://bit.ly/4h3R74o Cap Tables 101: How Capital Structure Works When Buying a Business - Thu Oct 24 - https://bit.ly/3zT8sMA Justin Willess liquidated his 401k to buy a $8.5m construction business. He lost the business and may lose his house. Topics in Justin’s interview: Frustration with his consulting careerBuying a construction companyConstruction landscape in Northern VirginiaDiscovering cooked books after transitionSeller refused to release promised fundsEmptying his 401k to make payrollCalm is contagiousClosing the businessWhat he learned from the failed acquisitionWhy he wants to acquire againReferences and how to contact Justin: [email protected] with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Chicago on October 26th: https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSLearn 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: Which Business Should You Buy? - Thu Oct 10 - https://bit.ly/3TYdVZ8 Due Diligence Office Hours - Wed Oct 16 - https://bit.ly/3BznZl0As a banker Greg Bruns dealt with business owners, wanting what they had. When a friend bought a business, he saw a way. Topics in Greg’s interview: Leaving his banking career to buy a businessBig risks of doing an asset saleHow ownership is different than expectedRisks and benefits to buying smallWhy erosion control matters to infrastructureBeing tied to the construction industryManaging cashflow in a project-based businessHow weather affects his bottom lineInvolving his employees in business decisionsThe good/bad of keeping the seller in the businessReferences and how to contact Greg: [email protected] HydromulchLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory: The Acquisition LabGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Chicago on October 26th: https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSWork 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: Which Business Should You Buy? - Thu Oct 10 - https://bit.ly/47TzaBc Marc Nzojibwami and 2 partners bought a business in Calgary, with a plan to keep buying (and without investor capital). Topics in Marc’s interview: Early attempts at launching companies in universityAcquiring with 2 partnersTheir plan to build a holdco togetherAcquiring a 40 year old sign shopFinancing their deal in CanadaNegotiating purchase price and seller noteOne change they made immediatelyGrowing EBITDA 30% the first yearChallenges and benefits of partnershipsSearching full-time for his next acquisitionReferences and how to contact Marc: [email protected] Imaging GroupGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or email [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] 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

Register for the webinars: Which Business Should You Buy? - Thu Oct 10 - https://bit.ly/4gQqKP5Taylor Wallace & Tyler O'Connor return to discuss selling to private equity & the painful reality of managing people. Topics in Taylor’s interview: Evaluating the risk/reward of selling to private equitySelling to private equity but not exitingGood PE vs. bad PETransition to a corporate structureComparing outcomes with tech startupsReferences and how to contact Taylor: TwitterLinkedInTaylor Wallace’s original Acquiring Minds interview: Buying Doggy Daycares After 10 Years in TechTopics in Tyler’s interview: Comparing his military service with business ownershipUnexpected hospitality aspect of the businessBeing both CEO and the sales departmentDelegating more to his general managerWorking capital in a seasonal businessReferences and how to contact Tyler: Tyler O’Connor’s original Acquiring Minds interview: Using $100k to Buy a 7-Figure Dream BusinessSMBootcampBird Golf AcademyGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Chicago on October 26th: https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSWork 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 [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsConnect with Acquiring Minds: See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter

George Tibil & Keith Fields bought a $1.1m janitorial business with falling revenues. 9 months later, sales are up 60%. Topics in George and Keith’s interview: Their dissatisfaction with the corporate ladderCalling on Acquiring Minds guests for search adviceAcquiring a ServiceMaster Clean franchise locationWhat changed their minds about franchisesFiring their first employee before taking ownershipCleaning all night when business was understaffedManaging an immigrant-heavy workforceTurning the culture around40% growth without outbound salesPower of good partnershipsReferences and how to contact George and Keith: ServiceMaster Clean BuffaloGeorge Tibil LinkedInGeorge Tibil TwitterKeith Fields on LinkedInGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] or visit Aspen HRLearn 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 Twitter

Register for the webinars: Legal Office Hours (Deal Structure & Its Tax Implications) - Thu Sept 26 - https://bit.ly/4dhSAAX How to Hire an Operator to Replace Yourself - Fri Sept 27 - https://bit.ly/3MU6hLuDustin Fusillo bought a struggling ATM parts & services business. Unhappily, the decline continued under his ownership. Topics in Dustin’s interview: Starting a private school in FloridaPersonal growth after divorceLosing money in 3 business venturesReaching out to successful people for adviceBacking out of a bad deal after selling his home and movingBuying a turnaround ATM businessLiquidating inventory to a competitorLearning to manage anxiety and angerImportance of an industry-specific accountantHis current role as a P&L managerReferences and how to contact Dustin: LinkedInTwitterGet 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 email [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Chicago on October 26th: 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 Twitter

Register for the webinars: Legal Office Hours (Deal Structure & Its Tax Implications) - Thu Sept 26 - https://bit.ly/4grubvD How to Hire an Operator to Replace Yourself - Fri Sept 27 - https://bit.ly/3zgUbJrCorey Robinson bought 4 locations in the legacy franchise Batteries Plus. He quickly bought 8 more, growing to $10m/yr. Topics in Corey interview: Leaving the security of his corporate jobWhat he likes about Batteries PlusBuying an expansion location for $100k cashChanging the culture at one locationRemotely managing Texan teams from IowaAn HVAC acquisition that went poorlyWhat he learned about making big changesOperating an independent business compared to a franchiseThe toll it took to spread himself over multiple industriesHis current role as an investor in small business acquisitionsReferences and how to contact Corey: Webinar cited in the intro: How (and Why) to Choose a Franchise as an Acquisition EntrepreneurLinkedInInstagramBatteries PlusBrian Beers Acquiring Minds interviewWork 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 [email protected] or visit Aspen HRLearn 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: Due Diligence Office Hours - Thu Sept 19 - https://bit.ly/3B2oF29 How Much to Budget for a Self-Funded Search - Fri Sept 20 - https://bit.ly/4e4FWpV Legal Office Hours (Deal Structure & Its Tax Implications) - Thu Sept 26 - https://bit.ly/4emLEn1 How to Hire an Operator to Replace Yourself - Fri Sept 27 - https://bit.ly/3ZrbCl1It was a revelation when Brittney Orellano heard about buying businesses. 6 months later, she'd done it herself. Topics in Brittney’s interview: Running a property management business while acquiringWinning over the employees after transitionUnexpected costs of maintaining equipmentCashflow problems led to layoffs in off-seasonGetting used to project-based revenuePutting an extra out-of-pocket $30k into the businessUsing local service ads on Google through slow seasonBeing inspired by Codie Sanchez and Tommy MelloComparing startups with acquired businessesOwning and operating a business with her husbandReferences and how to contact Brittney: [email protected] MelloCodie SanchezLearn 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 [email protected] 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

Register for the webinars: Due Diligence Office Hours - Thu Sept 19 - https://bit.ly/4d27MSA How Much to Budget for a Self-Funded Search - Fri Sept 20 - https://bit.ly/4gk4XPH Legal Office Hours (Deal Structure & Its Tax Implications) - Thu Sept 26 - https://bit.ly/3zl0H1w How to Hire an Operator to Replace Yourself - Fri Sept 27 - https://bit.ly/3TuzvEGRory Tyer bought the nursery where he'd been a loyal customer. Today it generates not just cash for him, but peace. Topics in Rory’s interview: Searching by driving aroundAdvantage of buying in a high-growth areaBuying a business his kids would be proud ofGetting a “screaming deal” on a garden centerNegotiating an unlisted dealExplaining deal structure to a sellerChallenges of staffing a business with seasonalityDecision to stay closed on SundaysInsurance costs tripling after acquisitionGardening as the antidote to screen fatigueReferences and how to contact Rory: [email protected] South Pleasantburg NurseryGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or email [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Chicago on October 26th: https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSGet 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: Thu Sept 12 - How Big a Business Should You Buy? - https://bit.ly/3XmtR8v Thu Sept 19 - Due Diligence Office Hours - https://bit.ly/4ghprZb Fri Sept 20 - How Much to Budget for a Self-Funded Search - https://bit.ly/4e1QjeqAcquiring a $2.5m pallet manufacturer was Michael Kelker's first step to building a legacy business for his family. Topics in Michael’s interview: Self-funded vs. traditional vs. independent sponsorshipCarrying on his family legacy in manufacturingHis goal of having control over his workAcquiring a custom pallet manufacturerGetting the deal done during CovidChallenges with the appraisalNavigating the lumber price surgeHiring a banker as CFOLearning from his employees and customersOptimism despite pallet industry downturnReferences and how to contact Michael: [email protected] RiverdaleGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Chicago on October 26th: https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or email [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsWork 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 here for the webinar, How Big a Business Should You Buy? https://bit.ly/4cSC6is Topics in Jackson’s interview: Fulfilling his dream of living on the beachTransitioning from real estate to restaurantsBuying a nostalgic restaurant with his friendUnique aspects of owning a business in a tourist townCashflow advantage in restaurantsLack of competition for acquiring restaurantsFinding and installing an experienced operatorEvaluating a restaurant’s potentialAcquiring a second restaurant with 4 locationsInvesting in equipment and technology that increases salesReferences and how to contact Jackson: Cowboy GroupJackson Speaks TwitterJackson Speak's LinkedInPizza by the SeaCowgirl KitchenGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] or visit Aspen HRLearn 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 Twitter

Register here for the webinar, How Big a Business Should You Buy? https://bit.ly/4dPunmC Without backgrounds in business, Julie & Janna Hottinger have grown the $2.1m trades business they bought last year 50%. Topics in Julie and Janna’s interview: Being warned away from the asphalt industrySisters who bought a construction businessHow the seller worked to ease the transitionAcquiring with no prior business experienceSlowly taking the all-paper business digitalCash flow challenges as a subcontractorBuilding trust with the existing teamGrowing revenue by hiring more employeesHow Covid affected commercial business spacesWhy industry trends aren’t always accurateReferences and how to contact Julie and Janna: Janna’s LinkedInJanna TwitterJulie’s LinkedInJulie [email protected]@signature-woodworking.comSignature WoodworkingGet 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 [email protected] or visit Aspen HRLearn 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

An engineer at heart, Mike Dey set his sights on buying a manufacturing business for the next stage of his career. Topics in Michael’s interview: Pivoting from aerospace engineering to business ownershipSelling his real estate investment to buy a businessBeware turning your passion into your incomeBuying a business in his 40’sHow risky is business ownership?The risk build-up model of valuing a businessSaying no to a friend’s investmentBuying a business bundled with real estateManaging a blue collar workforceHaving to suddenly switch lendersReferences and how to contact Michael: LinkedInTwitterAmerican Spray TechnologiesWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Chicago on October 26th: https://www.malaunchpad.com & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSGet a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or email [email protected] 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 here for the webinar, Legal Office Hours: Common Legal Diligence Issues https://bit.ly/4dWmPxV After 5 years of owning a scale business, Matt Bauer & Chris Hartman were burning out. Fortunately they'd created value. Topics in Matt and Chris’s interview: Two military buddies bought a scale businessDemanding grind of the industryDownside of providing a mission-critical serviceBuilding a sales team to grow the businessChallenges in training techniciansAttempting to acquire a competitorDoubling earnings in 5 yearsDeciding it was time to sellTheir 8-figure exitInvesting in a port-a-potty startupReferences and how to contact Matt and Chris: Matt Bauer LinkedInChris Hartman LinkedInChris Hartman Twitter12 South Capital Partners----- SPONSORS ----- Get a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] or visit Aspen HRLearn 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 Team----- Connect with Acquiring Minds ----- See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter

Register here for the webinar, Legal Office Hours: Common Legal Diligence Issues https://bit.ly/3ySUJ7RTopics in Meredith & Michael’s interview: Buying an employment screening companyThe seller staying on as an employeeStrict industry regulations serve as a moatUpgrading technology after acquisitionHow the seller eased clients through the transitionWhy they’re not worried about AIMeredith’s growth as a managerBuying a business as a young coupleWhy this may be a difficult industry to roll upPersonal impact of owning a businessReferences and how to contact Meredith & Michael: Meredith LinkedInMichael LinkedInMeredith TwitterMichael TwitterBackgroundConnect----- SPONSORS ----- Get a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value): Book a call with Tim or email [email protected] and mention Acquiring MindsGet $200 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference in Chicago on October 26th: M&A Launchpad Conference & enter code ACQUIRINGMINDSWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses: Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital Advisory----- Connect with Acquiring Minds ----- See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter

Register here for the webinar, Legal Office Hours: Common Legal Diligence Issues https://bit.ly/3YQP2lp Niklas James, Adam Borcz, and Tony Cappeart reflect on terms, risk & reward of the still-young self-funded search model. Topics in Search Investor Roundtable: White collar buyers of blue collar businessesDesirable traits for searchersBalancing investor returns and personal gains3 common modeling mistakesRole of put options in dealsHow searchers sabotage their own dealsRealistic expectations for business growthHope is not a strategyOperational experience trumps finance knowledgeSelf-funded search termsReferences and how to contact panelists: Niklas James LinkedInAdam Borcz LinkedInTony Cappaert LinkedInAdam Borcz’s Acquiring Minds interviewNiklas James’s Acquiring Minds interviewWork 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 TeamConnect with Acquiring Minds: See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter

Register here for the webinar, Legal Office Hours: Common Legal Diligence Issues https://bit.ly/46OH4LNRyan Sullivan's group is buying businesses with investor capital, SBA loans & operating partners — but it's not a fund. Topics in Ryan’s interview: “Moneyball approach” to buying businessesMaking a career change at 48Why it’s hard to find a good businessBuying and holding manufacturing businessesOperating a holdco with 5 partnersGenerating returns from cash flows, not exitsHow soon to make changes (and exceptions)What he loves about having partnersFunding deals one at a timeMoving a business and retaining 100% of staffReferences and how to contact Ryan: LinkedInNorth Park GroupGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] or visit Aspen HRLearn 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

3 top players in SBA lending to the searcher ecosystem discuss what they're seeing in the market as of summer 2024. Topics in SBA Lender Roundtable: Role of personal guarantee in SBA loanWhy valuations remain highRising amount of equity in dealsHow to find the right lenderIndustries: what’s hot, what’s notFinancing for fast-growth businessesIncrease in forgivable seller notesMore re-trading in recent yearsImportance of buyer-seller trustSBA rule changes and their impactReferences and how to contact panelists: Lisa Forrest LinkedInLisa Forrest TwitterLisa's weekly office hours on Wednesdays & ThursdaysMatt Dolsky LinkedInBrad Hettich LinkedInSmithlist 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 BusinessGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] 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

Gabe Perez sought a way out of corporate while Kristen sought a way back to working. Buying a $4m business offered both. Topics in Gabe and Kristen's interview: The role Acquiring Minds played in their acquisitionAcquiring a cold storage manufacturerPaying a premium for a growing companyBuying a business three hours awayRisks of taking on big projectsImplementing video conferencing Impact of business ownership on their familyKeeping business and family time separateGetting his lender comfortable with the business’s cyclicalityTheir goal of creating a great workplaceReferences and how to contact Gabe & Kristen: Gabe’s LinkedInKristen’s [email protected] Structures of New EnglandNew Majority CapitalChristian Bateson’s episodeWork 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 LabSmithlist 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 Twitter

Will Gano was rewarded for his persistence & vision when he bought an 8-figure, 125-year-old ingredients manufacturer. Topics in Will Gano’s interview: Getting experience in the food industryDoing outreach while working full timeHiring a buy-side broker to search for himGoing through years of “search purgatory”Writing a personal letter with his LOIBuying a food ingredient manufacturerThe upside of losing a major client before the transactionImportance of food safetyJumping through hoops for licensingInfluence from his late grandfatherReferences and how to contact Will Gano: LinkedInBear StewartCalder CapitalWork 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 [email protected] or visit Aspen HRSmithlist 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 Twitter

Rob Carpenter was eager to start operating, so it only took 90 days to start searching then buy a $200k SDE business. Topics in Rob’s interview: His background in AI and software developmentHis desire for a lower-stress lifestylePrioritizing speed in his business searchChanging his mind about franchisesBuying 3 Merry Maids territoriesDigitizing processes in the businessHow labor turnover affects customer turnoverBenefits of a negative cash cycleComparing startup culture with running a small businessPossibilities of bolt-ons in the futureReferences and how to contact Rob: [email protected] MaidsGet 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 LabSmithlist 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 Twitter

Years after one venture ended in failure, Jeff Velker bought a $2.5m pen maker with a strong brand & devoted customers. Topics in Jeff’s interview: His experience as a franchiseeBankruptcy after the 2008 crashThe difference between buying a job and owning a businessLosing his favorite pen led him to a pen companyAppeal of pens in our digital ageAcquiring with 2 partnersNegotiating with a seller who won’t go lowerGetting buy-in from spousesThe risks of having his manufacturer in TaiwanHis goal of $10M in 10 yearsReferences and how to contact Jeff: [email protected] 51Work 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 LabSmithlist 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 Twitter

Jordan Evans left tech & bought a tiny, decades-old language services business. 6 years later, revenue is 17x larger. Topics in Jordan’s interview: Acquiring his parents’ language services businessSpending 2 years preparing the dealOverpaying for a 180k SDE businessDoubling the businesses through organic growthPros and cons of seller notes“We’re buying a bucket of people and problems”Bolting on language companies as a growth strategyHow fast they integrate newly acquired businessesOpportunities for white-collar rollupsGrowing from 4 to 42 employeesReferences and how to contact Jordan: LinkedInTwitterLanguage NetworkSimple Numbers, Straight Talk, Big Profits!: 4 Keys to Unlock Your Business Potential by Greg CrabtreeGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] or visit Aspen HRGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program: Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamSmithlist 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 Twitter

Register for the webinar: How (and Why) to Choose a Franchise as an Acquisition Entrepreneur - https://bit.ly/4fa3CKBBrett Kennedy has doubled & strengthened the sub-$1 million moving business he bought — but it hasn't been without pain. Topics in Brett’s interview: Being raised in an entrepreneurial familyBuying Furniture Taxi, a moving companyDriving the truck himself when employees don’t showSurprises the seller failed to mentionGood and bad of buying smallDaily stressors of running a small businessHiring a GMDoubling the business despite a shrinking marketYour employees are your customers The next company he wants to buyReferences and how to contact Brett: LinkedInAdrian Pinto’s episodeAtlanta’s Furniture TaxiWork 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 LabSmithlist 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 Twitter

Register for the webinar: How (and Why) to Choose a Franchise as an Acquisition Entrepreneur - https://bit.ly/3WwZqNRWhen Dustin Carreon reached a ceiling in his first small business, he used the profits to start buying other businesses. Topics in Dustin’s interview: Growing up in his parents’ scrapping businessInheriting and growing Freelance ElectronicsLearning the most from a difficult acquisitionTiming and luck mattersKey person risk in small-staff businessesHis mistake of expanding before establishing expectationsCross-training employees as part of his holdco visionAn investor attitude compared with an entrepreneur attitudeBuilding a holdco without a college educationChallenge of writing down processesReferences and how to contact Dustin: LinkedInTwitterCOI HoldingsSmithlist 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 BusinessGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] 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

Register for the webinars: Search Investor Roundtable: State of the Market - https://bit.ly/4cvUOwV Overcoming Common Deal Sticking Points - https://bit.ly/4cD9z17 How (and Why) to Choose a Franchise as an Acquisition Entrepreneur - https://bit.ly/3LpQEuKHow Adam Markley evaluated thousands of businesses for sale and bought a handful of his own (6 in his portfolio today). Topics in Adam’s interview: Using online courses to teach business acquisitionSBA loans vs. seller notesRaising your potential with partnershipsHis holdco of 6 diverse companiesHow acquisitions in the UK and US differPower of personalized outreach2 main tracks to business acquisitionAn operating partner who emptied the bank accountsWorking in a medical staffing agency before buying itLooking at both on and off-market businessesReferences and how to contact Adam: [email protected] Capital GroupAdam’s fractional CFO firm, Veracity CFOTato Corcoran’s episodeLearn 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: Search Investor Roundtable: State of the Market - https://bit.ly/4cCMyuZ Overcoming Common Deal Sticking Points - https://bit.ly/3LkCpr3 How (and Why) to Choose a Franchise as an Acquisition Entrepreneur - https://bit.ly/4f2hCGcNick Haschka & Dillan Ferguson are 5 months and 2 acquisitions into a roll-up targeting $50-60m revenue in 5 years. Topics in Nick and Dillan interview: How Nick and Dillan met on TwitterThe future of reliance on generatorsServing both residential and commercial customersSeparating the business into service and installation teamsDoubling the number of employeesAtmospheric river caused a crisis 3 weeks after acquisitionBeing a leader is different than being an employerDeveloping their own softwareWhere they find their techniciansComparing the risk of an asset purchase and a stock purchaseReferences and how to contact Nick and Dillan: Nick Haschka TwitterNick Haschka LinkedInDillan Ferguson TwitterDillan Ferguson LinkedInOnPoint GeneratorsGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] 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

Register for the webinars: SBA Lender Roundtable: State of the Market - https://bit.ly/4bydwTe Due Diligence Office Hours - https://bit.ly/3WbVpxT Search Investor Roundtable: State of the Market - https://bit.ly/45SWMEY Purchase Agreement Fights: How to Avoid (or Win) Them - https://bit.ly/4eQ7z79 How Dominick Blue bought an air duct cleaning business and took it into HVAC services, all while retaining his W-2. Topics in Dominick’s interview: Keeping his W-2 while acquiring companiesMistakes he made during diligenceRevamping service offeringsLooking for “diamond in the rough” leadersExpanding from air duct cleaning into HVACHis fetal position momentBeing ghosted by his bankBuying a business while expecting a babyAdvantage of selling directly to consumersDrawing from his training in the U.S. MarinesReferences and how to contact Dominick: LinkedInTwitterAir ASAPWinning Moves by Dan CremonsLearn 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: SBA Lender Roundtable: State of the Market - https://bit.ly/4eTZ8Yn Due Diligence Office Hours - https://bit.ly/3WbAs6h Search Investor Roundtable: State of the Market - https://bit.ly/4eVYDxc Purchase Agreement Fights: How to Avoid (or Win) Them - https://bit.ly/4bwcgQx By doubling a $3m EBITDA business Juan Aguilar bought with traditional search fund terms, he is able to hold it forever. Topics in Juan’s interview: Huge challenge of buying a business in Central AmericaBuying a door manufacturer in GuatemalaImplementing EOSMoving his focus from “how” to “who”Raising prices 25%Focusing on service, quality, and volumeFinding a CEO to replace himHaving a liquidity event without exiting the businessTransitioning towards a permanent capital modelPlan for a holdcoReferences and how to contact Juan: LinkedInPaltus CapitalGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] 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

Register for the webinars: Thu July 11 - SBA Lender Roundtable: State of the Market - https://bit.ly/4eJqUXB Fri July 12 - Due Diligence Office Hours - https://bit.ly/3VPQf9pWe caution against thinking you can find it: 100% seller financing. But Renan Cortez did — and on a sizable business. Topics in Renan’s interview: His background as an Army medicLearning about acquisition via Codie SanchezUsing a virtual assistant to search for a businessNegotiating a 100% seller noteFeeling motivated by philanthropySpending too much money too fast after transitionGetting a bridge loan to make payrollRebranding the restoration companyRaising capital for growthHis large roll-up visionReferences and how to contact Renan: LinkedInTwitterSyndicate Building SolutionsSyndicate Venture GroupGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] or visit Aspen HRGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program: Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamSmithlist is a new 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 Twitter

Register for the webinars: Thu July 11 - SBA Lender Roundtable: State of the Market - https://bit.ly/3XSdIcG Fri July 12 - Due Diligence Office Hours - https://bit.ly/3W1zQA6Garrison Snell enjoyed a modest exit at age 24. By 30, he'd parlayed that into a holdco with $9m EBITDA and a mission. Topics in Garrison’s interview: Building and exiting a recording artist marketing agencyHis objective to do the most good for the most peopleEarly ventures into real estateBuying and quickly selling a restaurantAcquiring in the manufacturing spaceUnderstanding and applying Porter’s 5 ForcesAdvantage of being a low-cost, essential supplierRecent leadership challenges at a new acquisitionBuilding an indefinite holding companyPower of a community-minded small businessReferences and how to contact Garrison: [email protected] Quinn’s episodeCompetitive Strategy by Michael E. PorterSmithlist is a new 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 BusinessWork 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

Register here for the webinar, How to Buy a Business & Hire an Operator at Once https://bit.ly/3KJnYwg 7 years ago Dan Verboski bought a sign business with $650k in earnings. He's doubled it, but ownership has taken a toll. Topics in Dan’s interview: Background in the Marines and retailBuying a sign company in Tyler, TexasCulture clashes and problem employeesSelling off his real estate to keep the business goingHow he learned to fire fasterBuilding a new company cultureMaking personal changes to recover from burnoutStanding out by answering the phoneWhat he would do differently next timeHis growth as a leaderReferences and how to contact Dan: LinkedInTwitterLeon’s Signs Inc.ETA Circle in Houston, where Dan will be appearing on July 10thGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business: Contact [email protected] or visit Aspen HRLearn 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 here for the webinar, How to Buy a Business & Hire an Operator at Once https://bit.ly/3KH9RaSWill Smith has partnered with Niklas James & Max Lummis in a fund to invest in searcher & independent sponsor deals. Topics in this episode: Why raise a fund?How a fund comes togetherWhat it was like to raise money from LPs for a blind poolWhy a business might be great for a searcher but not an investorHow different investors have different needsWhy small acquisitions are hard for a fund to invest inValue of community in a fundMinds Capital’s process to assess dealsEvaluating deal strengths systematically“Best deal of the month” filterReferences and how to contact Niklas, Max and Will: Minds Capital (to learn more & submit a deal)Minds Capital page for investorsMax LummisNiklas JamesWill SmithWork 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 TeamConnect with Acquiring Minds: See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter