Acquiring Minds

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/41ivxUlFragmentation & an enormous TAM drew Jonathon Tupper to buy a 30-year-old business in the asset-based lending industry.Topics in Jonathon’s interview:Moving from politics to investment managementImportance of liquidityFactoring: a form of asset-based lendingWhat kinds of businesses benefit from factoringBuying a factoring businessAcquiring without an SBA loanPaying 2x EBITDACompeting with banks and other lendersRunning a Houston business from Southern CaliforniaChallenge of hiring good employeesReferences and how to contact Jonathon:LinkedInJobe Services [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/4f0320CMichael Johnson started searching in April. Today he's having the time of his life as owner of a $1.2m printing business.Topics in Michael’s interview:Marine Corps experience in IraqAcquiring a vending machineFrustration with his W-2 jobAcquiring a SpeedPro locationUps and downs of negotiation and fundingFrustrating first day as ownerHigh demand for printing car wrapsEmpowering employees to be autonomousHiring his wife to work in the businessWhat he loves about the franchise modelReferences and how to contact Michael:LinkedInThe one-pager Michael used during outreachSpeedPro NW RaleighDominick Blue on Acquiring Minds: Buying & Growing a Business While Keeping a Day JobJesse Safir on Acquiring Minds: Surviving the Nightmare: Sales Plunge 95%Dan Verboski on Acquiring Minds: Candid Reflections on 7 Years of SMB OwnershipJarett Berke on Acquiring Minds: When a Restaurant is a Great Business to BuyAdam Markley on Acquiring Minds: Getting Reps: Helping Others Look at Deals Led to a HoldcoGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamLearn more about Walker Deibel's done-with-you buy-side advisory:The Acquisition LabWork with an SBA broker who focuses exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:Matthias Smith of Pioneer Capital AdvisoryConnect with Acquiring Minds:See past + future interviews on the YouTube channelConnect with host Will Smith on LinkedInFollow Will on Twitter

Link Moser built a nearly-passive business portfolio by acquiring tiny web design & hosting shops on favorable terms.Topics in Link’s interview:Learning to build websites in the 90’sStarting a web design/hosting businessSending out letters to target businessesAcquiring other digital marketing agencies nearbyIntegrating the businesses he boughtCustomer attrition rates during transitionGetting bored with passive incomeConsidering buying a traditional, non-digital business Willingness to sell his own businessPros and cons of remote workReferences and how to contact Link:LinkedInWindhill DesignGet a complementary pre-acquisition HR & PEO review for your target business:Contact [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/3AMj6FkFrancisco Del Rio & Diego Silva are 5 acquisitions into a venture to consolidate veterinary practices in Chile & beyond.Topics in Francisco & Diego’s interview:Vetting each other before partneringTeaming up to roll up vet clinics in ChilePitching themselves to clinic ownersSearching during strict Covid lockdownsEducating owners about business valuationUnderstanding the seller’s perspectiveMaking variable compensation workTeaching receptionists to use sales scriptsFinding investors and growing the businessVision to expand to neighboring countriesReferences and how to contact Francisco & Diego:Diego Silva [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/3O0im2aLegal Office Hours: Understanding the Waterfall - Thu Nov 21 - https://bit.ly/3O3zqo2Sam Rosati & partners built the Sunbelt's largest commercial fencing contractor in 3 years. But the origins were modest.Topics in Sam’s interview:His background in accounting and lawBeing inspired by Chenmark and Brent BeshoreAcquiring Alpha Dumpsters with his brotherBirth of SMBashOrigin story of SMB LawHow an independent sponsor differs from a self-funded searcherInvesting in a commercial fencing businessThe role of luck in successAcquiring and consolidating fence businesses Partnering with private equityReferences and how to contact Sam:LinkedInTwitterSMBootcampChandler Reed on Acquiring Minds: Boom, Bust, Boom: Buying a Whiplash BusinessJohn Hubbard on Acquiring Minds: Why Buy a Small Manufacturing Business? and Time to Sell? Growing EBITDA from $750k to $2m Get a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):Book a call with Tim or email [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/40HZtZKLegal Office Hours: Understanding the Waterfall - Thu Nov 24 - https://bit.ly/4hEzVThThe story behind "Rick & Royce", who've probably done more to grow entrepreneurship through acquisition than anyone.Topics in Rick and Royce’s interview:How they met in academiaGrowth of their ETA class at HarvardUnexpected success of their bookSatisfaction of changing students’ livesThoughts on their sons searching for businessesPartner/family perspectives on searchValue of learning about failed acquisitionsHow attitudes about small business have transformedUsing their podcast to educate about small businessThoughts on pursuing wealthReferences and how to contact Rick and Royce:The book: HBR Guide to Buying a Small BusinessThe podcast: Think Big, Buy SmallGet complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:Oberle Risk Strategies - Search Fund TeamGet a complimentary IT audit of your target business:Email Nick Akers at [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/3UihUQGHow to Run a 2-Year Search in 2 Months - Friday Nov 1 - https://bit.ly/3UfYJqzNik 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/4dR5CWqHow to Run a 2-Year Search in 2 Months - Friday Nov 1 - https://bit.ly/4dQifknKristiana 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/3zTykbcTech 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/4h3R74oCap Tables 101: How Capital Structure Works When Buying a Business - Thu Oct 24 - https://bit.ly/3zT8sMAJustin 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/3TYdVZ8Due 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/47TzaBcMarc 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/4dhSAAXHow 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/4grubvDHow 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/3B2oF29How Much to Budget for a Self-Funded Search - Fri Sept 20 - https://bit.ly/4e4FWpVLegal Office Hours (Deal Structure & Its Tax Implications) - Thu Sept 26 - https://bit.ly/4emLEn1How 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/4d27MSAHow Much to Budget for a Self-Funded Search - Fri Sept 20 - https://bit.ly/4gk4XPHLegal Office Hours (Deal Structure & Its Tax Implications) - Thu Sept 26 - https://bit.ly/3zl0H1wHow 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/3XmtR8vThu Sept 19 - Due Diligence Office Hours - https://bit.ly/4ghprZbFri 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/4cSC6isTopics 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/4dPunmCWithout 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 Issueshttps://bit.ly/4dWmPxVAfter 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 Issueshttps://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 Issueshttps://bit.ly/3YQP2lpNiklas 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 Issueshttps://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