In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa have their first in-person interview with Walker Deibel, author of "Buy Then Build" and Co-Founder of Acquisition Lab. Walker shares the inspiration behind his book, which aims to teach and educate individuals on how to purchase their first business. He reflects on his experiences with his first and second business acquisitions, emphasizing the importance of overcoming challenges and understanding that there is no perfect deal.    Walker delves into the origins of Acquisition Lab, a selective program he conceived with the goal of nurturing entrepreneurs. Acquisition Lab builds a community of active participants in the M&A world.  Highlighting the importance of the individual in the success of a business, Walker argues that the risk in M&A and entrepreneurship lies more with the person than the business itself. We explore industries that, while not traditionally seen as attractive in the ETA (Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition) space, may offer great opportunities. This is a great episode and gives insight into the life of one of the most influential individuals in ETA.    In this podcast episode, we discuss:   Buy Then Build Acquisition Lab Business Acquisition Success Factors Industry Opportunities  You can connect with Walker by LinkedIn: Walker Deibel - Acquisition Lab | LinkedIn  You can learn more about “Buy Then Build” and Acquisition Lab Here:  About - BUY THEN BUILD How to Buy a Business with Acquisition Lab  Additional Resources:  Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube  Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome special guest Bakari Akil, founder of Graves Hall Capital. Bakari shares his inspiring journey from initially knowing nothing about M&A to successfully acquiring two $30 million businesses and teaching Cornell MBA candidates about entrepreneurship through acquisition. His story highlights the power of determination and self-education in overcoming challenges and achieving success in the world of business acquisitions. Throughout the discussion, Bakari emphasizes the importance of proactive strategies for self-education, networking, and developing essential business skills such as negotiations and financing. His insights underscore the significance of practical action and resilience in navigating the complexities of M&A. The episode also explores the often-overlooked role of personal finance in wealth building and M&A, offering valuable advice and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and business professionals. In this podcast episode, we discuss: Resilience The Power of Self Education Taking Action to Overcome Analysis Paralysis Building Wealth Through M&A and ETA. You can connect with Bakari Akil by his Website: About — Graves Hall (squarespace.com) Additional Resources: Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit EquityLaunchpad.com

Join hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa on the M&A Launchpad Podcast for a riveting discussion with Malcolm Peace, founder of Tsetserra Growth Partners. Malcolm shares essential insights into scaling businesses and integrating sales and marketing strategies.   Reflecting on his acquisition journey, he emphasizes understanding sellers' mindsets and navigating unexpected challenges during transitions. Delving into operational intricacies, Malcolm highlights the importance of hands-on involvement and recruiting operating partners to drive day-to-day operations.   Tune in to explore the art of business acquisition, operational challenges, and team building essentials with Malcolm as he unveils his journey on the path to growth under Tsetserra Growth Partners.  In this podcast episode, we discuss:     Malcolm’s Thesis to Acquire Challenges of Closing the Deal Operating and Scaling a Business Becoming an Operating Partner   You can connect with Malcolm on LinkedIn: Malcolm Peace - Tsetserra Growth Partners | LinkedIn    Additional Resources:  Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

In this episode, Randy Woods shares the journey of founding and selling his tech company, Non-Linear, spanning two decades of growth aligned with the internet's evolution. Randy identified top talent and strategically sold the company when the timing was optimal, ensuring a favorable outcome for employees. He provides practical advice for prospective sellers, stressing the importance of professionalizing accounting, addressing legal obligations, and aligning stakeholders to navigate the complexities of business exits.  Transitioning into an M&A advisory role at Valtech post-acquisition, Randy discusses their tech-focused acquisition strategy. This episode offers invaluable insights for entrepreneurs navigating business acquisitions and exits, encapsulating Randy's wealth of experience and expertise in the tech industry.  In this podcast episode, we discuss:     Building a Successful Tech Company Navigating the Sales Process Advice for Sellers  You can connect with Randy Woods by LinkedIn: Randy Woods - Valtech | LinkedIn  Additional Resources:  Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube Checkout our upcoming Conference - https://malaunchpad.com/  Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa delve into Kevin Bibelhausen's journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, focusing on his transition, business acquisition, and operational strategies. Kevin shares his shift motivated by autonomy and the allure of entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of assembling the right team and leveraging expertise in finance and operations for his textile business acquisition. He emphasizes teamwork and reflects on raising capital, securing $800,000 in five weeks, primarily through social media platforms.  Reflecting on entrepreneurship's essence, Kevin underscores trust and relationships in business transactions and shares insights into managing working capital and fostering employee relations post-acquisition. Looking forward, Kevin remains committed to operational excellence and mentorship, balancing hands-on involvement with strategic investments.   In this podcast episode, we discuss:   Team Collaboration and Support Strategically Raising Net Working Capital Prioritizing People in Business  Adaptation and Growth Strategies  You can connect with Kevin Bibelhausen by email: kevin@bibelhausen.com    Additional Resources:  Join The M&A Launchpad Conference on May 11th, 2024, in Houston. Use coupon code M&APODCAST for a $200 discount - https://malaunchpad.com/  Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

In this insightful episode, hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa interview Jay B Sauceda to explore the journey of running a logistics business and achieving a successful exit. Jay B's expertise shines as he shares invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the industry. The conversation begins with Jay B recounting his journey, from the initial exposure to the logistics space driven by the need for efficient shipping solutions for his retail brand to recognizing the untapped potential in offering third-party logistics services.  Moreover, the discussion delves into the impact of external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic on the logistics industry, with Jay B candidly sharing the trials faced by his company and how resilient leadership helped them emerge stronger. Jay B also provides invaluable insights into the decision-making process leading up to the sale of his company to cart.com, discussing negotiation strategies and the complexities of due diligence. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of running a logistics business and achieving a successful exit, gaining practical insights and strategies for navigating the competitive landscape of the industry.  In this podcast episode, we cover:  The journey of running a logistics business and achieving a successful exit Managing operational challenges and seizing growth opportunities The impact of external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic on the logistics industry Insights into the decision-making process and negotiation strategies for M&A transactions The role of entrepreneurial operating systems (EOS) in optimizing business operations and preparing for strategic initiatives.  You can connect with Jay B Sauceda by email: Jay B Sauceda  Additional Resources:  Join The M&A Launchpad Conference on May 11th, 2024, in Houston. Use coupon code M&APODCAST for a $200 discount - https://malaunchpad.com/  Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

In this episode, our guest Shawn Allard shares his recent experience acquiring Novel Ice Cream in Phoenix, AZ. Despite initial reservations about entering the food & beverage industry, Shawn's journey illustrates the value of seizing lucrative opportunities and approaching each business on its individual merits. In this podcast episode, we discuss: Importance of Branding and Marketing for SMBOvercoming analysis paralysis as a first time acquirerWorking with and vetting sellers on your first acquisitionPersonal guarantees in M&AScaling & Expansion as a first time acquirer You can connect with Shawn Allard on Twitter: @shawnwallard Additional Resources: Access our archive of video interviews on YouTubeCheckout our upcoming Conference - https://malaunchpad.com/Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.comLooking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

We’re honored to interview legendary American Entrepreneur Josh Abramson on today’s episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast. Josh Abramson is the Founder of Vimeo, CollegeHumor.com, BustedTees, and TeePublic. In this podcast episode, we discuss: Structuring deals when selling to a public company and risks to avoidWeighing decisions on when to sellNegotiations with potential acquirersHow to navigate what life looks like after a big exit Additional Resources: Access our archive of video interviews on YouTubeCheckout our upcoming Conference - https://malaunchpad.com/Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.comLooking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad Join The M&A Launchpad Conference on May 11th, 2024, in Houston. Use coupon code M&APODCAST for a $200 discount - https://malaunchpad.com/

In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Chandler Reed, the Owner and CEO of Get Green NOI, a prominent commercial green energy contractor. This episode is a testament to the power of embracing unforeseen opportunities and navigating the uncharted terrain of entrepreneurship.   In this podcast episode, we discuss:   Navigating distressed deals and the resilience needed to operate a challenging business. Seller Carry strategies The art of finding partners and sellers in SMB The complexities of turning a distressed asset into a thriving venture.  You can connect with Chandler Reed on Twitter: @ChandlerReedSMB  Join The M&A Launchpad Conference on May 11th, 2024, in Houston. Use coupon code M&APODCAST for a $200 discount - https://malaunchpad.com/    Additional Resources:  Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube Checkout our upcoming Conference - https://malaunchpad.com/  Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

In this episode, we sit down with Bill Snow, a seasoned lower middle market M&A investment banker, to explore the intricate world of mergers and acquisitions. Bill's wealth of knowledge and experience shines through as he guides us through the three key phases of the deal process: Search, Finance, and Negotiation. He emphasizes the importance of staying connected with tools like Capital IQ and shares invaluable insights on broadening your reach within the industry. Bill also delves into the art of negotiation, dispelling myths about bluffing and highlighting the significance of crafting a compelling narrative for sellers. Tune in to learn about the five Bs of successful dealmaking and unravel the complexities of working capital in transactions. In this podcast episode, we discuss: Three Key Phrases of the Deal ProcessStaying connected to the M&A IndustrySelling or Buying BusinessesAssessing Working Capital You can connect with Bill Snow by email: bill@billsnow.com Get Bill Snow's Best Selling Book - Mergers and Acquisitions for Dummies on Amazon Additional Resources: Access our archive of video interviews on YouTubeCheckout our upcoming Conference - https://malaunchpad.com/Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.comLooking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, we delve into the journey of Mike Okhravi, a first-time acquirer who courageously ventured into the world of ETA. Departing from his corporate role in the tech industry, Mike embraced the challenge of business ownership by successfully acquiring two small businesses – an epoxy coating enterprise and a towing operation – within an impressively short timeframe. With genuine candor, Mike shares the trials, victories, and invaluable lessons encountered as a first-time business acquirer. In this podcast episode, we discuss: The Leap from Corporate Tech to EntrepreneurshipThe Dos and Don’ts as a First Time AcquirerOperations in SMB and The Power Of Intellectual Capital in a BusinessDeconstructing Deal Structures and Seller FinancingEmbracing Challenges, Embracing Growth in M&A You can connect with Mike Okhravi at - mikeokhravi@gmail.com Mike’s M&A Resource recommendations: Acquiring Minds https://acquiringminds.co/The Prof G Pod with Scott Galloway https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-prof-g-pod-with-scott-galloway/id1498802610 Join The M&A Launchpad Conference on May 11th, 2024, in Houston. Use coupon code M&APODCAST for a $200 discount - https://malaunchpad.com/ Additional Resources: Access our archive of video interviews on YouTubeCheckout our upcoming Conference - https://malaunchpad.com/Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.comLooking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit Equity Launchpad

Join The M&A Launchpad Conference on May 11th, 2024, in Houston. Use coupon code M&APODCAST for a $200 discount - https://malaunchpad.com/ Join us for an insightful conversation with Josh Anhalt, the visionary mind behind GreenPath Energy, a company founded in 2007 dedicated to revolutionizing the detection of methane leaks in oil and gas pipelines. Throughout the years, Josh faced the formidable challenge of attempting to sell his company on three separate occasions, with each endeavor encountering distinct obstacles that led to unforeseen setbacks. Despite the hurdles, GreenPath Energy persevered and flourished, ultimately generating over $8 million in revenue by 2023. This success laid the foundation for an acquisition agreement valued at seven times EBITDA. In this podcast episode, we discuss: Starting a business from the ground upThe acquisition process and vetting acquirersHolding fast to your values during the successes and failures of your businessDeal negotiations and how to safeguard your deal from unraveling You can connect with Josh on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/janhalt Additional Resources: Access our archive of video interviews on YouTubeCheckout our upcoming Conference - https://malaunchpad.com/Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at - info@equitylaunchpad.com Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale or sell your business? Visit https://equity-launchpad.com/