Unlocking the secrets of successful online business acquisitions… How does one navigate the intricate world of mergers and acquisitions, especially in the ever-evolving tech industry? In this episode, Andrew Gazdecki, founder of acquire.com, shares insights on building and operating the leading online platform for buying and selling online business…

You might think snow is bad for a car wash business... But what if it turns out to be their best friend? In this episode, Harry Caruso, founder and CEO of Car Wash Advisory, unravels the intriguing dynamics of the car wash industry and how it stands as an attractive investment sector in the world of mergers and acquisitions. In this episode, you’ll…

The collision industry is undergoing a major transformation… But what factors influence a successful merger or acquisition in this niche market? In this episode, David Roberts, founder and CEO of Focus Advisors, shares his journey from founding a leading collision center network to becoming a key player in the M&A advisory scene, guiding body shop …

In the world of business, accounting is often seen as a painful necessity. But what if it could be a strategic advantage instead of a chore? In this episode, Matt Tait, Founder and CEO of Decimal, discusses how his company revolutionizes accounting services for small businesses and why he believes aligning business incentives is key to success. You…

Navigating the complex world of mergers and acquisitions can be daunting, especially for lower middle market founder-owned companies. But what if there was a more straightforward path to a clean exit? In this episode, Rob Margeton, co-founder of Ryco Advisors, an Atlanta-based independent advisory firm, explores the vast opportunities within the lo…

98% of business owners aren't prepared for the emotional toll of selling their companies... Could you be one of them? In this episode, JB Brown, founder of White Buffalo Advisors, reveals the secrets behind successful business exits and the often-overlooked emotional impact that follows. You'll discover: The gripping story behind the name "White Bu…

Ever wonder how authentic connections and Midwest values could transform mergers and acquisitions? Dive into a compelling blend of business acumen and heartfelt legacy preservation with our latest episode. In this episode, Jonathan Babcock, Senior Associate at Compass Group Equity Partners, joins Patrick Stroth to uncover the intricate world of low…

The world of M&A can seem elusive, but today’s guest lifts the curtain to reveal how lower middle market firms can achieve global reach and expertise. In this episode, Nick Olsen, Managing Director of Cornerstone International Alliance, delves into the power of collaboration within the M&A network, highlighting how firms thrive by joining forces. Y…

From Brazil to the U.S.: Navigating the Cross-Border Investment Landscape In this episode, Stephan de Sabrit, the Managing Partner of Leste Group, delves into the intricacies of expanding a Latin American investment firm into the North American market. You’ll discover: How the name “Leste” encapsulates their vision of new beginnings and ideas. The …

In the chaotic world of marketing mergers and acquisitions, how do you ensure a "clean exit"? In this episode, Jonathan Baker, practice lead for mergers and acquisitions at Punctuation, dives into the critical intricacies of M&A in the marketing services sector. He shares the emotionally charged journey of selling a business and uncovers strategies…

What happens when you blend the financial expertise of big firms with the agility and personal touch of a nimble boutique? Discover how one company is revolutionizing the M&A landscape for middle-market companies. In this episode, Nicholas Spezio, Director of Transaction Services at the Exbo Group, dives into the world of mergers and acquisitions, …

Ever wondered how the niche market of self-storage investments works and how it can become a powerful asset in your real estate portfolio? Discover the unexpected allure of self-storage and the success secrets behind this burgeoning industry. In this episode, Matthew Horne, Co-Founder and CEO of Storage Point Capital, dives deep into the intriguing…

Struggling with investment strategies in today's tumultuous market? Discover how the pros stay agile, creative, and profitable even during cash flow negative periods. In this episode, John Dickie, Partner at HighVista Strategies, opens up about navigating the lower middle market during financial downturns and seizing unique opportunities that many …

How can you transition a business successfully from a retiring entrepreneur to the next generation? This episode dives into the human element of mergers and acquisitions, revealing strategies to make these transitions smooth and profitable. Brian Shields, co-founder of Handoff Partners, shares his journey of combining financial expertise with opera…

Unlock the secrets of sustainable growth and discover the power of a founder's mindset in transforming consumer brands, as revealed by industry veteran Mark Tarchetti. In this episode, Mark Tarchetti, founder of Alchemy-Rx and author of "Pick a Lane: Growth Strategy in a Fast-Changing World," shares his insights on reimagining businesses and implem…

Imagine a world where you could buy and sell businesses with just a few clicks, all while having the peace of mind that your transaction is protected. Sounds too good to be true? Not anymore, thanks to Flippa's innovative platform and their new game-changing capability. In this episode, Blake Hutchison, CEO of Flippa discusses how Flippa is revolut…

What does it take to successfully sell a business and achieve a fulfilling outcome for all parties involved? Learn the secrets from an M&A expert who has helped countless business owners navigate the complex world of mergers and acquisitions. In this episode we speak with Scott Bushkie, founder of Cornerstone Business Services, an investment bankin…

98% of the time, we fail to understand the intricacies of secondary market transactions... How does rep and warranty insurance play a crucial role in closing these deals? In this episode, Mike Bego, managing partner of Kline Hill Partners, reveals the secrets of the secondary private equity market and the role of rep and warranty insurance. In this…

In today’s ever-changing deal landscape, there’s no room for a win-lose mindset. Discover how a collaborative approach can not only navigate but also thrive in tumultuous times. In this episode, Matt Bodnar, founder of Eidolon Investments, delves into innovative deal structures during challenging times, emphasizing the crucial need for new skills a…

Are you ready to dive into the strategies behind building thriving businesses and impactful partnerships? Discover how partnering with the right leaders can transform companies and markets. In this episode, John Block, co-founder and CEO of Unity Partners, takes us through his fascinating journey from childhood aspirations to leading a game-changin…

Are you ready to transform the way you think about mergers and acquisitions? Discover the secrets to a clean exit and the revolutionary approach of conscious capitalism in this enlightening episode of M&A Masters. Join host Patrick Stroth, an expert in executive and transactional liability, as he welcomes Sunny Vanderbeck, co-founder and managing p…

In this episode, I sit down with Brett Story, the founder of Britehorn Partners, a leading middle-market investment bank. They delve into Brett's transition from corporate law to M&A, the founding and rebranding of Britehorn Partners, and why staying focused on the middle market can be more rewarding than chasing larger deals. Brett also shares ins…

In this episode of M&A Masters, we're joined by Trever Acers, Managing Director of Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation. With over 20 years in the transactions field, Trever brings a wealth of experience and a unique approach to mergers and acquisitions. Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation focuses on the lower middle market, aiming to se…

In this episode of M&A Masters, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sharon Heaton, founder of sbLiftOff. SbLiftOff specializes in providing advisory services to founder-led businesses and government contracting organizations across the United States, focusing on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and more. Sharon, also the author of the Forbes bestsell…

This episode of M&A Masters features Tom Brinegar, the Chief Financial Officer of PEAK Resources, a trailblazing technology and systems integrator based in Denver. Under Tom's financial stewardship, PEAK Resources recently navigated through a complex and successful acquisition by a strategic buyer. With a rich background in finance and the heart of…

Discover the transformative journey of consumer brands into lucrative M&A opportunities… In today’s episode, join us as we welcome Jason Somerville, founding partner of GW Partners. With a unique blend of operational consulting, financial management, strategic planning, and M&A advisory, Jason and his team are known for elevating consumer brands in…

Discover the art of strategic mergers in architecture and engineering with M&A expert David Kimbrell. In this episode of M&A Masters, join me as we engage with David Kimbrell, a seasoned M&A authority in the architectural and engineering sector. With over four decades of unmatched expertise, David has masterminded the art of buying, selling, and ad…

In this episode, my guest is Tom Zucker, President and Founder of EdgePoint Capital. Cleveland based, EdgePoint Capital’s advisors bring up-market executive transaction knowledge and real-world M&A and business leadership experience, enabling them to guide owners and founders through transactions and attract qualified buyers. Tom will share his M&A…

What insights does a top M&A attorney have to share about buying and selling businesses? Spending nearly three decades in California’s dynamic business environment, my guest, attorney Addison Adams, has become known as California’s go-to voice on mergers and acquisitions. In this episode, he’ll share his M&A expertise, including: M&A in California …

In this episode, we’re taking a look at a unique independent sponsor’s M&A strategies. My guest Bakari Akil is the founder of Graves Hall Capital, which seeks to buy and run businesses where owners and founders are seeking an exit. Bakari will share his M&A journey and advice for enticing a seller to do business with you. He’ll also cover: Why he b…

How can M&A advisors help business owners maximize and monetize their life’s work? That’s the mission of M&A advisory and exit planning consulting firm TobinLeff, whose founder David Tobin is here to speak with me in this episode. David will share how his firm builds relationships long before the deal and meets clients wherever they are in the M&A …

What if you had a step-by-step guide to the M&A process? My guest, investment banker Bill Snow, is the author of Mergers & Acquisitions for Dummies, an insider’s handbook about buying and selling companies. In this episode, he’ll share his M&A expertise and give an inside look at the process of writing his book. He’ll also share the one tip that te…

In the case of an unexpected death or disability, a business can face hardship and significant economic consequences… But in this episode, we’re covering two essential products that can mitigate this risk: key person life insurance and excess disability insurance. Here to speak with me is Lynne Rosenberg, President of Innovative Solutions, which pr…

How can quality of earnings reports impact lower middle market transactions? Patrick McMillan, CFO and Transaction Advisor at Amplēo, is here to share how sellers and buyers can leverage this tool for smoother transactions. Patrick will cover: What is a quality of earnings report? Why is it different from an audit? How to tell a story with numbers …

What does it take to successfully purchase businesses & grow them for the long term? Malcolm Peace is the founder of Tsetserra Growth Partners, a firm that specializes in buying family-owned small businesses with established Texas legacies. In this episode, he’ll share his M&A wisdom. He’ll cover: His firm’s buy-and-hold strategy Working with B2B b…

Helping small business owners realize their life’s work is one of the great joys of M&A… But what does it take to have generational impact on owners and founders? Jeff May is the executive vice president of Carolina Acquisitions Partners, which was formed to fulfill a need in the underserved market segment of business owners without succession stra…

If you’re selling, you want to be where your buyers are. But what does it take to thrive in a massive tech industry marketplace? In this episode, entrepreneur, author, and franchise owner Nate Lind gives an inside look at WebsiteClosers.com, which provides sell-side advisory and transactional services for tech companies in the lower middle market. …

What is the key to a successful M&A transaction? In this episode, Joseph Durnford, who was recently inducted into the M&A Advisor Hall of Fame, will give his insight on that question. As chairman and senior managing director of JD Merit, Joseph has seen market-transformational transactions. He’s here to share his wisdom on all things M&A, from reps…

M&A is about helping clients make their ambitions a reality… That’s what Bob Goldsmith, Founder and President of Northern Edge Advisors, believes. In this episode, Bob will unpack what Northern Edge Advisors brings to the table for the lower middle market. He’ll also share: The importance of using a wide pool of buyers What it means to be long-term…

What is M&A like as an independent sponsor? In this episode, I speak to Jonathan Saltzman, managing partner of Torque Capital Group, an independent sponsor that focuses on companies undergoing change or at inflection points where there are opportunities to create value. Jonathan will share his insight on M&A for lower-middle-market automotive and m…

Why is transparency the key to success? In this episode, I’m joined by Peter Cook of Everingham & Kerr, a mergers and acquisitions advisory firm that specializes in providing intermediary services for lower-middle market companies and entrepreneurs. Peter will share his philosophy around transparency and will also discuss: His take on reps & warran…

How can M&A Masters tap into the power of human capital? In this episode, I’m joined by Doug McCormick, Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of HCI Equity Partners. He’ll give an inside look at his firm, which partners with family and founder-owned manufacturing, services, and distribution companies in the lower middle market. Doug will br…

When your small business owner client is in a room full of MBAs, they can feel out of their depths… So how do you keep your client’s emotions in check during a high-stakes sale? Alan Clark is here to share his perspective as a sell-side advisor helping clients exit their businesses. Alan also reveals why he thinks a common 2023 M&A prediction is wr…

In M&A, having a set of core principles to guide your thinking is essential… Ken Heuer of Kidd & Company is here to share the firm’s 3 core principles and how they make business decisions simple. We also discuss What Kidd & Company brings to the table for the lower middle market The emergence of a new reps & warranties product to protect sellers An…

How can M&A firms succeed in the e-commerce niche? Kelcey Lehrich, co-founder and CEO of 365 Holdings, is here to share how he provides e-commerce brands with a permanent home when entrepreneurs are seeking an exit. Kelcey also breaks down what makes consumer products thrive in the marketplace—and why you should treat e-commerce as a channel, not a…

As we prepare for the new year, it’s time to set your strategy… “What strategy?,” you might think, “We just need to make more money.” But a business without a strategy is destined for failure. Especially in today’s changing world, where an unexpected crisis could derail your business. And it’s not enough to set a strategy… You have to execute it, t…

What does it take to bring technology and data capital to middle-market businesses? In today’s digital world, there’s enormous opportunity in helping business owners embrace technology… In this episode, I’m joined by Vinay Bachireddy, managing partner at Weave Growth Partners. Weave Growth Partners is a Silicon Valley firm that backs owners and exe…

When you have an indefinite holding period, you’re buying for the long term… What are the strategies of firms that operate in this way? Ben Brown, founder of Alderman Enterprises, is here to share his perspective on M&A. We discuss: Benefits of the buy & hold strategy Why his firm sticks to the lower middle market Ben’s take on reps & warranties in…

There’s enormous opportunity in professionalizing and scaling founder-owned businesses. But what does it take to become a leader in this area? In this episode, I’m joined by Heather Madland of Huron Capital for an inside look at the firm. We’ll also discuss: Opportunities in the service sector M&A in the Midwest The history of Huron Capital Heather…

The sell-side of M&A brings unique challenges and opportunities… In this episode, I’m joined by Richard Parker of Roy Street Advisors for an inside look at a sell-side firm. We’ll also cover: Why the first offer isn’t always the best offer The importance of documentation Reps & warranties from a sell-side perspective M&A trends for 2023 And more…