EP 75 | AI, M&A, and the New Rules of Exit Planning with Jeff Willinger
Most founders think AI is about efficiency, automation, or keeping up with trends. Buyers see something very different. In this episode of the ExitEngine Podcast, we’re joined by Jeff Willinger, a digital transformation and AI strategist with decades of enterprise experience, to unpack how AI is quietly redefining what “value” actually means in M&A. This conversation goes far beyond tools and hype. We break down how buyers use AI today — and how founders can use it now to reduce risk, increase predictability, and expand their buyer pool. You’ll learn: • Why AI maturity is becoming a proxy for operational trust • How buyers evaluate data, governance, and predictability — not just EBITDA • The difference between real AI integration and last-minute “AI wash” • How AI exposes hidden risks before they kill deals • Why exit planning is really growth planning with intention • How AI belongs in your margin slide, not just your tech stack AI isn’t replacing people. It’s increasing confidence. And confidence is what buyers pay a premium for. If you want to build a company that’s scalable, predictable, and ready for exit — whether you sell or not — this episode is essential.
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Show Notes
Jeff's phone: 312-622-2300
Jeff's email: [email protected]
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