Acquiring Minds

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 channelConnect 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 investorReferences 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 entrepreneurshipReferences 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 growthReferences 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 growthReferences 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 businessesReferences 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 HormoziDownload 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 industryReferences 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 culturesReferences 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 TractionReferences 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 daughtersReferences 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 serviceReferences 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 retireesTopics 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