Buying Small to Then Buy Larger ($1m SDE)
Dec 31, 2025•1 hr 43 min
Episode description
The first business Joe Soelberg bought did $400k SDE. The experience and cash flow enabled a second, larger acquisition.
Topics in Joe’s interview:
- Leaving corporate for a chance to manage P&L
- His toughest pitch was to his wife
- Acquiring a 3D design firm
- Pivoting hard during Covid
- Hiring a manager with a design background
- Acquiring a branding agency
- Difference between branding and marketing
- Retainer model for recurring revenue
- Offering less than listing price
- His hand-off relationship with his businesses
References and how to contact Joe:
- Point B Communications
- SONNY+ASH
- Mike Curry on Acquiring Minds: It’s All Your Fault: How to Become CEO of Your Acquisition
- Johannes Hock on Acquiring Minds: Buy and 3x a Project Based Business in Just 2 Years
Work with an SBA loan team focused exclusively on helping entrepreneurs buy businesses:
Get complimentary due diligence on your acquisition's insurance & benefits program:
Get a free review of your books & financial ops from System Six (a $500 value):
- Book a call with Tim or hello@systemsix.com and mention Acquiring Minds
Connect with Acquiring Minds:
- See past + future interviews on the YouTube channel
- Connect with host Will Smith on LinkedIn
- Follow Will on Twitter
Edited by Anton Rohozov
Produced by Pam Cameron
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