In the world of business, accounting is often seen as a painful necessity. But what if it could be a strategic advantage instead of a chore? In this episode, Matt Tait, Founder and CEO of Decimal, discusses how his company revolutionizes accounting services for small businesses and why he believes aligning business incentives is key to success. You’ll discover: How Decimal fosters a people-first company culture in a remote work environment The unique approach Decimal takes towards acquisitions a...
Mar 05, 2025•33 min•Ep 157•Transcript available on Metacast Navigating the complex world of mergers and acquisitions can be daunting, especially for lower middle market founder-owned companies. But what if there was a more straightforward path to a clean exit? In this episode, Rob Margeton, co-founder of Ryco Advisors, an Atlanta-based independent advisory firm, explores the vast opportunities within the lower middle market and reveals how Ryco Advisors guides business owners through the selling process for optimal outcomes. In this episode, you'll disco...
Feb 26, 2025•20 min•Ep 156•Transcript available on Metacast 98% of business owners aren't prepared for the emotional toll of selling their companies... Could you be one of them? In this episode, JB Brown, founder of White Buffalo Advisors, reveals the secrets behind successful business exits and the often-overlooked emotional impact that follows. You'll discover: The gripping story behind the name "White Buffalo Advisors." Why 75% of business owners regret selling their companies within a year. The importance of planning for life post-exit—beyond just fi...
Feb 12, 2025•27 min•Ep 155•Transcript available on Metacast Ever wonder how authentic connections and Midwest values could transform mergers and acquisitions? Dive into a compelling blend of business acumen and heartfelt legacy preservation with our latest episode. In this episode, Jonathan Babcock, Senior Associate at Compass Group Equity Partners, joins Patrick Stroth to uncover the intricate world of lower middle market investments and the human-centric approach that defines their success. You’ll discover… The unconventional inspiration behind the nam...
Feb 05, 2025•43 min•Ep 154•Transcript available on Metacast The world of M&A can seem elusive, but today’s guest lifts the curtain to reveal how lower middle market firms can achieve global reach and expertise. In this episode, Nick Olsen, Managing Director of Cornerstone International Alliance, delves into the power of collaboration within the M&A network, highlighting how firms thrive by joining forces. You’ll discover: The unique model that sets Cornerstone International Alliance apart from big M&A corporations. How collaboration over comp...
Jan 08, 2025•35 min•Ep 153•Transcript available on Metacast From Brazil to the U.S.: Navigating the Cross-Border Investment Landscape In this episode, Stephan de Sabrit, the Managing Partner of Leste Group, delves into the intricacies of expanding a Latin American investment firm into the North American market. You’ll discover: How the name “Leste” encapsulates their vision of new beginnings and ideas. The strategic reasons behind Leste Group’s focus on the lower middle market. Unique approaches Leste Group takes to stand out among larger, more establish...
Dec 18, 2024•26 min•Ep 152•Transcript available on Metacast In the chaotic world of marketing mergers and acquisitions, how do you ensure a "clean exit"? In this episode, Jonathan Baker, practice lead for mergers and acquisitions at Punctuation, dives into the critical intricacies of M&A in the marketing services sector. He shares the emotionally charged journey of selling a business and uncovers strategies that transcend mere financial gain, focusing instead on the value-driven aspects that make a deal truly beneficial. You’ll discover… Why the emot...
Nov 13, 2024•25 min•Ep 151•Transcript available on Metacast What happens when you blend the financial expertise of big firms with the agility and personal touch of a nimble boutique? Discover how one company is revolutionizing the M&A landscape for middle-market companies. In this episode, Nicholas Spezio, Director of Transaction Services at the Exbo Group, dives into the world of mergers and acquisitions, discussing the unique needs and challenges faced by growth-stage companies and their investors. You’ll discover… The compelling story behind Exbo ...
Nov 06, 2024•28 min•Ep 150•Transcript available on Metacast Ever wondered how the niche market of self-storage investments works and how it can become a powerful asset in your real estate portfolio? Discover the unexpected allure of self-storage and the success secrets behind this burgeoning industry. In this episode, Matthew Horne, Co-Founder and CEO of Storage Point Capital, dives deep into the intriguing world of self-storage investments and acquisitions, uncovering why this seemingly mundane sector could be the golden ticket for savvy investors. You’...
Oct 30, 2024•29 min•Ep 149•Transcript available on Metacast Struggling with investment strategies in today's tumultuous market? Discover how the pros stay agile, creative, and profitable even during cash flow negative periods. In this episode, John Dickie, Partner at HighVista Strategies, opens up about navigating the lower middle market during financial downturns and seizing unique opportunities that many overlook. You’ll discover… The hidden opportunities in tough markets that can turn challenges into advantages. Creative investment strategies and the ...
Oct 16, 2024•32 min•Ep 148•Transcript available on Metacast How can you transition a business successfully from a retiring entrepreneur to the next generation? This episode dives into the human element of mergers and acquisitions, revealing strategies to make these transitions smooth and profitable. Brian Shields, co-founder of Handoff Partners, shares his journey of combining financial expertise with operational insights to help retiring entrepreneurs pass their businesses to the next generation. In this episode, you’ll discover… The significance of und...
Sep 11, 2024•37 min•Ep 147•Transcript available on Metacast Unlock the secrets of sustainable growth and discover the power of a founder's mindset in transforming consumer brands, as revealed by industry veteran Mark Tarchetti. In this episode, Mark Tarchetti, founder of Alchemy-Rx and author of "Pick a Lane: Growth Strategy in a Fast-Changing World," shares his insights on reimagining businesses and implementing practical growth strategies. You'll discover… Why relying solely on acquisitions may not be the solution for sustainable growth in consumer pro...
Aug 28, 2024•36 min•Ep 146•Transcript available on Metacast Imagine a world where you could buy and sell businesses with just a few clicks, all while having the peace of mind that your transaction is protected. Sounds too good to be true? Not anymore, thanks to Flippa's innovative platform and their new game-changing capability. In this episode, Blake Hutchison, CEO of Flippa discusses how Flippa is revolutionizing the way individuals buy and sell online businesses by offering a seamless, all-in-one platform with an exclusive new feature that mitigates r...
Aug 21, 2024•26 min•Ep 145•Transcript available on Metacast What does it take to successfully sell a business and achieve a fulfilling outcome for all parties involved? Learn the secrets from an M&A expert who has helped countless business owners navigate the complex world of mergers and acquisitions. In this episode we speak with Scott Bushkie, founder of Cornerstone Business Services, an investment banking firm. We dive into the strategies and approaches that have made Scott and his team successful in helping business owners sell their companies in...
Aug 07, 2024•40 min•Ep 144•Transcript available on Metacast 98% of the time, we fail to understand the intricacies of secondary market transactions... How does rep and warranty insurance play a crucial role in closing these deals? In this episode, Mike Bego, managing partner of Kline Hill Partners, reveals the secrets of the secondary private equity market and the role of rep and warranty insurance. In this episode, you’ll discover… The advantages of rep and warranty insurance that help close transactions smoothly. The types of clients Kline Hill Partner...
Jul 31, 2024•41 min•Ep 143•Transcript available on Metacast In today’s ever-changing deal landscape, there’s no room for a win-lose mindset. Discover how a collaborative approach can not only navigate but also thrive in tumultuous times. In this episode, Matt Bodnar, founder of Eidolon Investments, delves into innovative deal structures during challenging times, emphasizing the crucial need for new skills and collaborative negotiation tactics. In this episode, you’ll discover: A new insurance product that could revolutionize the lower middle market. Why ...
Jul 17, 2024•34 min•Ep 142•Transcript available on Metacast Are you ready to dive into the strategies behind building thriving businesses and impactful partnerships? Discover how partnering with the right leaders can transform companies and markets. In this episode, John Block, co-founder and CEO of Unity Partners, takes us through his fascinating journey from childhood aspirations to leading a game-changing firm that builds better businesses together. In this episode, you’ll discover… Why John chose the name "Unity Partners" for his firm The secret mant...
Jun 12, 2024•28 min•Ep 140•Transcript available on Metacast Are you ready to transform the way you think about mergers and acquisitions? Discover the secrets to a clean exit and the revolutionary approach of conscious capitalism in this enlightening episode of M&A Masters. Join host Patrick Stroth, an expert in executive and transactional liability, as he welcomes Sunny Vanderbeck, co-founder and managing partner of Satori Capital. Based in Dallas, Satori Capital is renowned for its multi-strategy investment firm ethos based on conscious capitalism. ...
May 29, 2024•34 min•Ep 139•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, I sit down with Brett Story, the founder of Britehorn Partners, a leading middle-market investment bank. They delve into Brett's transition from corporate law to M&A, the founding and rebranding of Britehorn Partners, and why staying focused on the middle market can be more rewarding than chasing larger deals. Brett also shares insights into the unique challenges and rewards of working with owner-operators to achieve successful exits and the evolving landscape of M&A. He...
May 15, 2024•21 min•Ep 138•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of M&A Masters, we're joined by Trever Acers, Managing Director of Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation. With over 20 years in the transactions field, Trever brings a wealth of experience and a unique approach to mergers and acquisitions. Objective, Investment Banking & Valuation focuses on the lower middle market, aiming to serve clients with enterprise values between $25 to $250 million across the United States. The firm prides itself on its client-centric appr...
May 01, 2024•31 min•Ep 137•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode of M&A Masters, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sharon Heaton, founder of sbLiftOff. SbLiftOff specializes in providing advisory services to founder-led businesses and government contracting organizations across the United States, focusing on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and more. Sharon, also the author of the Forbes bestseller LIFT OFF: 12 Things to Know Before Selling Your Business , shares invaluable insights into the world of M&A, the journey of founder-led...
Apr 17, 2024•35 min•Ep 136•Transcript available on Metacast This episode of M&A Masters features Tom Brinegar, the Chief Financial Officer of PEAK Resources, a trailblazing technology and systems integrator based in Denver. Under Tom's financial stewardship, PEAK Resources recently navigated through a complex and successful acquisition by a strategic buyer. With a rich background in finance and the heart of an entrepreneur, Tom's journey offers a unique lens on the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions from the perspective of the acquired. Discover...
Mar 20, 2024•23 min•Ep 135•Transcript available on Metacast Discover the transformative journey of consumer brands into lucrative M&A opportunities… In today’s episode, join us as we welcome Jason Somerville, founding partner of GW Partners. With a unique blend of operational consulting, financial management, strategic planning, and M&A advisory, Jason and his team are known for elevating consumer brands into prime acquisition targets. Dive into Jason’s transition from investment banking to entrepreneurial success. Unearth the impact of visiting ...
Feb 21, 2024•32 min•Ep 134•Transcript available on Metacast Discover the art of strategic mergers in architecture and engineering with M&A expert David Kimbrell. In this episode of M&A Masters, join me as we engage with David Kimbrell, a seasoned M&A authority in the architectural and engineering sector. With over four decades of unmatched expertise, David has masterminded the art of buying, selling, and advising firms in this specialized niche, revolutionizing the concept of strategic mergers and acquisitions. Delve into the intricate world ...
Jan 31, 2024•38 min•Ep 133•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, my guest is Tom Zucker, President and Founder of EdgePoint Capital. Cleveland based, EdgePoint Capital’s advisors bring up-market executive transaction knowledge and real-world M&A and business leadership experience, enabling them to guide owners and founders through transactions and attract qualified buyers. Tom will share his M&A insight, including: The importance of timing and preparation His commitment to the lower middle market EdgePoint Capital’s ideal client Value...
Dec 06, 2023•18 min•Ep 132•Transcript available on Metacast What insights does a top M&A attorney have to share about buying and selling businesses? Spending nearly three decades in California’s dynamic business environment, my guest, attorney Addison Adams, has become known as California’s go-to voice on mergers and acquisitions. In this episode, he’ll share his M&A expertise, including: M&A in California Non-Compete Agreements Bulk Sale Law Reps & Warranties Insurance Predictions for Next Year And more...
Nov 15, 2023•30 min•Ep 131•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, we’re taking a look at a unique independent sponsor’s M&A strategies. My guest Bakari Akil is the founder of Graves Hall Capital, which seeks to buy and run businesses where owners and founders are seeking an exit. Bakari will share his M&A journey and advice for enticing a seller to do business with you. He’ll also cover: Why he believes buying companies is the best wealth building strategy What types of companies he’s looking for The role of reps & warranties insur...
Oct 25, 2023•23 min•Ep 130•Transcript available on Metacast How can M&A advisors help business owners maximize and monetize their life’s work? That’s the mission of M&A advisory and exit planning consulting firm TobinLeff, whose founder David Tobin is here to speak with me in this episode. David will share how his firm builds relationships long before the deal and meets clients wherever they are in the M&A journey. He’ll also cover M&A in the professional services and marketing sector, his ideal client profile, and more....
Aug 23, 2023•24 min•Ep 129•Transcript available on Metacast What if you had a step-by-step guide to the M&A process? My guest, investment banker Bill Snow, is the author of Mergers & Acquisitions for Dummies , an insider’s handbook about buying and selling companies. In this episode, he’ll share his M&A expertise and give an inside look at the process of writing his book. He’ll also share the one tip that tests if your investment banker has the right negotiation skills for your deal—and give his take on reps and warranties insurance....
Aug 02, 2023•23 min•Ep 128•Transcript available on Metacast In the case of an unexpected death or disability, a business can face hardship and significant economic consequences… But in this episode, we’re covering two essential products that can mitigate this risk: key person life insurance and excess disability insurance. Here to speak with me is Lynne Rosenberg, President of Innovative Solutions, which provides broad market access to leading carriers of annuities, life, disability, and long term care insurance. She’ll cover what businesses need to know...
Jun 21, 2023•29 min•Ep 127•Transcript available on Metacast 
