

M&A Launchpad
Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa
Gain insights on acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, The M&A Launchpad Podcast equips you with the knowledge and guidance to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MALaunchpad
Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/pqNb8xrzyFzVYxzq6
Join The M&A Launchpad Conference- https://www.malaunchpad.com/
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MALaunchpad
Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/pqNb8xrzyFzVYxzq6
Join The M&A Launchpad Conference- https://www.malaunchpad.com/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 2, 2025 • 50min
Journey to Independent Sponsorship with Cory Sandrock
In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, host Casey Minshew interviews Cory Sandrock, Managing Partner of Pareto & Company. Cory shares his unique journey from theater to private equity, highlighting the nuances of independent sponsorship versus search funds and the critical role of teamwork in successful deal-making.
He dives into lessons from his first acquisition, funding strategies for independent sponsors, and a detailed case study of an HVAC deal. Cory also explores the future of independent sponsorship, the importance of understanding financial health in acquisitions, and practical advice for new investors.
Whether you’re an operator, investor, or entrepreneur eyeing your first acquisition, this episode provides grounded strategies and behind-the-scenes insights into the deal-making process.
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
Cory’s journey from theater to private equity
Independent sponsorship vs. search funds
Teamwork as a cornerstone of deal-making
The importance of assessing financial health before acquisition
Lessons from Cory’s first acquisition experience
Funding strategies for independent sponsors
Case study: HVAC acquisition and deal structuring
Incentivizing management teams for growth
How to differentiate in a competitive M&A landscape
The future of independent sponsorship and advice for new investors
Guest Contact Info:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corysandrock/
Company: https://paretoandcompany.com
Email: csandrock@paretoandcompany.com
Sponsored by O’Connell Advisory Group
Work with a trusted Quality of Earnings and Financial Diligence partner who focuses solely on business acquisitions.
Schedule a discovery call with Patrick of O'Connell Advisory Group—your dynamic Quality of Earnings partner.
Visit: www.oconnelladvisorygroup.com
M&A Launchpad Conference
The next M&A Launchpad Conference is happening in October 2025 in Chicago. Date and location details coming soon.
This is the premier event for entrepreneurs, investors, and dealmakers in the lower-middle market.
Get your ticket at https://www.malaunchpad.com and use code LAUNCH for $200 off.
Additional Resources
Contact the hosts Casey Minshew or Feras Moussa at info@equity-launchapad.com
Looking to Buy or Sell a Business? Equity Launchpad: https://www.equity-launchapad.com
About The M&A Launchpad:
The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.
Connect with M&A Launchpad:
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/

Sep 26, 2025 • 42min
Unlocking Capital with Sale Leasebacks with Bryan Huber
In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, Casey Minshew sits down with Bryan Huber, Partner at SAB Capital, to explore the intricacies of sale leasebacks in the context of business acquisitions. Bryan breaks down how these transactions work, why they’re such a powerful tool for freeing up capital, and how they can improve business valuations. The conversation highlights underwriting considerations, the importance of quality of earnings, and the flexibility required when structuring deals. They also touch on lease agreement implications, financing strategies, and negotiating purchase options that protect future acquirers.
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
How sale leasebacks can unlock capital in acquisitions
Why understanding the mechanics is crucial for acquirers
The role of quality of earnings in financial diligence
How sale leasebacks impact business valuation and flexibility
Underwriting considerations: tenant creditworthiness & lease structure
Geographic and market demand for sale leaseback transactions
Financing strategies that don’t limit future borrowing capacity
Negotiating purchase options to mitigate risk
Connect with Bryan Huber
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-bryan-huber-47453755/
Additional Resources
The M&A Launchpad Conference – Join us on October 25, 2025 in Chicago for a one-day, high-impact event designed for acquisition entrepreneurs, investors, and operators who are serious about buying, selling, and scaling businesses. The agenda is packed with actionable sessions, curated networking, and access to industry experts who are actively doing deals. Space is intentionally limited to keep the event impactful, so attendees can connect with the right people and walk away with real opportunities. Secure your spot today at www.malaunchpad.com — use code LAUNCH for $200 off your ticket.
O’Connell Advisory Group
Work with a trusted Quality of Earnings and Financial Diligence partner who focuses solely on business acquisitions.
Schedule a discovery call with Patrick of O'Connell Advisory Group—your dynamic Quality of Earnings partner.
Visit: www.oconnelladvisorygroup.com
Get in touch with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa at info@equity-launchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale, or sell your business? Visit www.equity-launchpad.com
About The M&A Launchpad:
The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.
Connect with M&A Launchpad:
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/

Sep 19, 2025 • 36min
Digital Assets & Business Valuation with Paige Wiese
In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, Casey Minshew interviews Paige Wiese, founder and CEO of Tree Ring Digital, a Denver-based digital marketing agency. Paige brings over 15 years of experience helping businesses build and execute marketing strategies that drive measurable growth. She shares her perspective on why evaluating digital marketing strategies is critical when acquiring a business, how digital assets factor into valuation, and what buyers and sellers should consider during due diligence.
The conversation dives into the importance of preparing for exits, integrating digital strategies post-transaction, and adapting to rapid changes in the digital landscape—including the rise of AI. Paige also highlights the unique opportunities and challenges in bringing digital presence to blue-collar businesses.
Key Takeaways
· The M&A Launchpad event is a must-attend for anyone buying, selling, or scaling businesses.
· Evaluating digital marketing strategies is essential for business buyers.
· Understanding digital assets can prevent costly mistakes during acquisitions.
· Financial health and quality of earnings are critical in M&A.
· A strong digital presence can significantly increase business valuation.
· Buyers should ask the right questions about digital assets before acquisition.
· Post-transaction integration of digital strategies is key to a successful transition.
· AI is changing the digital marketing landscape rapidly.
· Blue-collar businesses need to start building their digital presence early.
Connect with Paige Wiese LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paigewiese/ Tree Ring Digital: https://treeringdigital.com/
M&A Launchpad Conference The M&A Launchpad Conference is where acquisition entrepreneurs, investors, and operators come together for a full day of deal-making, insights, and networking. Whether you’re buying, selling, or growing businesses, this is the event that puts you in the room with the right people.
· Learn directly from industry leaders and active dealmakers
· Gain insight into real-world acquisitions and exits
· Build relationships with capital partners, operators, and advisors
· Discover opportunities to scale through mergers & acquisitions
Chicago, IL Saturday, October 25, 2025 Tickets + info: https://www.malaunchpad.com/
Use code LAUNCH for $200 off registration.
Additional Resources
· Sponsored by O’Connell Advisory Group – Work with a trusted Quality of Earnings and Financial Diligence partner who focuses solely on business acquisitions. Schedule a discovery call with Patrick of O'Connell Advisory Group—your dynamic Quality of Earnings partner. Visit: https://www.oconnelladvisorygroup.com/
· Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MALaunchpad
· Connect with show hosts Casey Minshew and Feras Moussa: info@equitylaunchpad.com · Learn more about Equity Launchpad: https://www.equity-launchpad.com/
About The M&A Launchpad:
The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.
Connect with M&A Launchpad:
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/

Sep 12, 2025 • 45min
From 13 Franchises to Freedom: Kristie Shifflette on Scaling & Exiting with Success
In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew welcome Kristie Shifflette, who shares her inspiring journey from corporate America to becoming a successful franchisee with Orange Theory Fitness.
Kristie dives into the challenges and triumphs of scaling her business to 13 locations, her experience navigating private equity, and the critical role of sales and team development in driving success. She also opens up about her post-exit chapter—new ventures in health and wellness, lessons learned, and how she’s redefining success after building and selling a thriving business.
This episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, franchise operators, and anyone considering private equity partnerships or planning for an eventual exit.
Key Takeaways
· It doesn’t really matter where you start; it’s how you finish.
· Sales and people development are crucial for business success.
· Pre-sales strategies can lead to profitability from day one.
· Having control over an area can provide a competitive advantage.
· Building a strong team structure is essential for scaling.
· Private equity can provide opportunities for growth and expansion.
· Understanding your numbers is key to executing a successful business strategy.
· Self-awareness is important in recognizing when to pivot or step back.
· Creating systems and processes can make a business more attractive to buyers.
· Empowering consumers with knowledge can lead to better health outcomes.
Connect with Kristie Schifflette
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristie-shifflette-0761353/
M&A Launchpad Conference
The M&A Launchpad Conference is where acquisition entrepreneurs, investors, and operators come together for a full day of deal-making, networking, and insights from industry leaders.
📍 Chicago, IL 📅 Saturday, October 25, 2025 🎟️ Tickets & Info: https://www.malaunchpad.com 💸 Use code LAUNCH for $200 off
Additional Resources
Watch our archive of video interviews on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malaunchpad Contact the hosts: info@equitylaunchpad.com Learn more: https://equity-launchpad.com
About The M&A Launchpad:
The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.
Connect with M&A Launchpad:
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/

Sep 4, 2025 • 38min
Building Exit-Ready Businesses with Jason Kruger
In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Casey Minshew and Ben Suttles sit down with Jason Kruger, President at Signature Analytics (a Citrin Cooperman Company). Jason shares his journey from Deloitte to entrepreneurship, scaling Signature Analytics, and ultimately navigating its acquisition.
This conversation digs into the fundamentals of building a business with the end in mind—why intentional growth, strong documentation, and client diversification are critical to maximizing valuation. Jason also unpacks how AI is transforming accounting and decision-making, and what entrepreneurs should do today to position their companies for a smoother, more profitable exit.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or still scaling, Jason’s insights will give you a clear roadmap for creating enterprise value that lasts.
Key Takeaways
Intentional Growth – Plan for your exit early and build a company that operates independently of the founder.
Systems & Documentation – Formal processes add tangible value and buyer confidence.
Diversification – Avoid client concentration risk to stabilize revenue and valuation.
AI in Accounting – Emerging tools are streamlining reporting and empowering real-time decisions.
Connect with Jason Kruger
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-kruger/
Email: JKruger@citroencooperman.com
Don’t Miss the M&A Launchpad Conference
Join us in Chicago on October 25, 2025 for the flagship M&A Launchpad Conference—a one-day experience bringing together searchers, independent sponsors, capital partners, and M&A advisors. Networking, panels, and deal flow, all under one roof.
Register now at: https://www.malaunchpad.com
Use code LAUNCH for $150 off your ticket.
Additional Resources
Access our full archive of podcast and video interviews: https://www.malaunchpad.com/podcast
Connect with the hosts at Equity Launchpad: info@equitylaunchpad.com
Learn more about M&A opportunities: https://www.equity-launchpad.com
About The M&A Launchpad:
The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.
Connect with M&A Launchpad:
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/

Aug 28, 2025 • 40min
Why 80% of Businesses Fail to Sell | Exit Planning Tips with Adam Koos
In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew sit down with Adam Koos, founder of Elevate and Exit and Libertas Wealth Management. With a unique background in both psychology and finance, Adam helps business owners prepare for the biggest decision of their lives—selling their company.
From the emotional side of letting go of a business to the hard numbers that make or break a deal, Adam shares why most owners wait too long to plan an exit—and how that mistake leaves millions on the table. He dives into consultative selling, minimizing key-person risk, and how to structure businesses for a smoother, more profitable transition.
If you’re buying, selling, or just starting to think about succession planning, this conversation will give you practical takeaways and a new lens for approaching the exit process.
In this episode, we discuss:
Why 80% of businesses never sell—and what owners can do differently
The role of psychology in exit planning (and why it matters as much as finance)
Top mistakes owners make before going to market (and easy fixes to de-risk)
How to prepare years in advance for the best valuation and smoothest deal
Legacy, taxes, and life after the sale—what every seller should consider
Consultative selling and building rapport with owners as a buyer
Connect with Adam Koos
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamkoos
Exit Planning Firm: https://elevateandexit.com
Financial Advisory Firm: https://libertaswealth.com
The M&A Launchpad Conference
Join us on October 25, 2025 in Chicago for the M&A Launchpad Conference — a one-day event designed for acquirers, operators, investors, and advisors. Learn from headliners, connect with dealmakers, and walk away with practical insights to accelerate your M&A journey.
Get $150 off your ticket with code LAUNCH at: https://malaunchpad.com
Additional Resources
Watch more interviews on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@equitylaunchpad
Connect with hosts Casey Minshew & Feras Moussa: mailto:info@equitylaunchpad.com
Learn more about investing, scaling, or selling a business: https://equity-launchpad.com
About The M&A Launchpad:
The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.
Connect with M&A Launchpad:
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/

Aug 21, 2025 • 42min
Six Acquisitions in Three Years with Ryan Sullivan
In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Ben Suttles and Feras Moussa sit down with Ryan Sullivan, Co-Founder of North Park Group, to unpack how he and his partner built a private equity firm from the ground up—acquiring six businesses in three years. Ryan shares practical insights on deal structuring, using real estate as a lever, leveraging SBA financing, and why a strong network and clear investor relations strategy matter at every stage of growth.
Key Topics Discussed:
Starting a private equity firm and buying the first business
Innovative real estate strategies and leveraging SBA loans
Maintaining and growing a high-value network in M&A
Practical approaches to deal structuring and investor relations
Connect with Ryan
Email: RyanS@northparkgroup.net
Website: https://northparkgroup.com
M&A Launchpad Conference
Join us at the M&A Launchpad Conference on October 25, 2025, at The Westin Chicago River North. It’s the premier event for acquirers, operators, and investors to connect, learn, and grow. Use code LAUNCH at malaunchpadconference.com for $150 off your ticket.
Additional Resources
Watch our archive of video interviews on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malaunchpad
Get in touch with the hosts: info@equity-launchpad.com
Explore partnerships to acquire, scale, or sell a business: https://equity-launchpad.com
About The M&A Launchpad:
The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.
Connect with M&A Launchpad:
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/

Aug 14, 2025 • 43min
Building Powerful Brand Stories & M&A Strategies with Mark Tarchetti
In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Ben Suttles and Feras Moussa welcome special guest Mark Tarchetti, a veteran in the consumer products industry. Mark has held senior roles at global giants like Unilever and now runs his own boutique consulting firm, helping companies unlock the true potential of their brands.
The discussion dives deep into how major companies build and maintain strong brand stories, the psychology of mergers and acquisitions, and how to apply these insights to your own business ventures. Mark also shares why consumer research is critical to growth and how to preserve brand legacy during acquisitions.
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
Building a strong brand story and strategy
Insights into the psychology of mergers and acquisitions
The role of consumer research in driving business growth
How to maintain brand integrity and legacy during acquisitions
You can connect with Mark:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-tarchetti-312b88164/
Website: https://www.alchemy-rx.com/
Additional Resources:
Access our archive of video interviews on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malaunchpad
Get in touch with show hosts Ben Suttles and Feras Moussa at: info@equity-launchpad.com
Looking to invest in M&A opportunities or partner with an advisor to acquire, scale, or sell your business? Meet our community in-person at the M&A Launchpad Conference https://malaunchpad.com — Use code LAUNCH for $150 off your ticket to the M&A Launchpad Conference.
About The M&A Launchpad:
The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.
Connect with M&A Launchpad:
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/

Aug 7, 2025 • 49min
Deferred Sales Trust & Passive Income Strategies with Brett Swarts
In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Feras Moussa and Casey Minshew are joined by Brett Swarts, founder of Capital Gains Tax Solutions and an expert in sophisticated tax planning strategies. Brett dives deep into the mechanics of the Deferred Sales Trust (DST), breaking down how it empowers entrepreneurs and investors to preserve their wealth, defer taxes, and generate truly passive income. The conversation covers why traditional exit strategies often fall short, the importance of legacy and mission in financial planning, and how the largest wealth transfer in history is creating unprecedented opportunities for proactive entrepreneurs. If you're preparing for an exit or looking to create long-term financial freedom, this is a must-listen.
In this podcast episode, we discuss:
· Why tax planning should be at the forefront of every entrepreneur’s strategy
· The Deferred Sales Trust (DST) explained—how it works and who it’s for
· How to create passive income streams through advanced tax structures
· Why legacy planning starts with understanding your family’s mission and values
· The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when exiting their business
· How DSTs can be used for real estate, businesses, crypto, and more
· Building a team of experts to navigate complex transactions
· The government’s role in wealth transfer and how to plan accordingly
· Why the time to plan your exit is before you sell
Guest Contact Info: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-swarts/ Website: https://capitalgainstaxsolutions.com/meet-brett/ Additional Resources:
· Learn more about Equity Launchpad and how they help buyers and sellers navigate acquisitions: https://www.equity-launchpad.com
· Contact Casey Minshew or Feras Moussa at info@equitylaunchpad.com
· Looking to buy or sell a business? Equity Launchpad can help guide you through your acquisition or exit strategy.
· Don’t miss the next M&A Launchpad Conference – October 2025 in Chicago (Date and location TBD). Visit https://www.malaunchpad.com to learn more and join the waitlist.
About The M&A Launchpad:
The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.
Connect with M&A Launchpad:
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/

Jul 31, 2025 • 41min
Hard Lessons in Buying, Scaling, and Exiting with Carl Kleimann
In this episode of the M&A Launchpad Podcast, hosts Casey Minshew and Ben Suttles are joined by Carl Kleimann, a proven entrepreneur with deep experience in scaling and exiting small businesses. Carl takes us through his business journey—from losing a $200K client, to navigating private equity partnerships, to launching his current venture, Moffitt Services.
He dives into the real-world lessons of leadership, the pivotal role of PEOs (Professional Employer Organizations), and why humility and a servant mentality are essential traits for any founder. Whether you're considering your first acquisition or preparing for an exit, Carl’s insight will change the way you think about business, leadership, and long-term growth.
Key Topics Discussed
How Carl lost a $200,000 customer—and bounced back
• Why leadership with humility leads to better business outcomes
• What every entrepreneur should know about exit strategy
• The upside (and downside) of private equity
• The role of PEOs in helping small businesses stay competitive
• How to maintain relationships through the stress of acquisitions
• Why continuous learning is key to long-term entrepreneurial success
• Carl’s new venture: Moffitt Services and what he’s building next
Guest Contact Info
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlkleimann/
• Website: https://www.moffittservices.com
• Email: online@moffittservices.com
Additional Resources
Contact the Hosts – Casey Minshew & Ben Suttles: info@equity-launchpad.com
• Learn more at: https://www.equity-launchpad.com
• Attend the M&A Launchpad Conference – Coming October 2025 (Date & Location TBD)
Get your ticket at https://www.malaunchpad.com and use code LAUNCH for $150 off
About The M&A Launchpad:
The M&A Launchpad provides insights into acquiring, investing in, and selling profitable businesses in the lower to middle market. Whether you are a business owner, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, we will provide you with the knowledge, guidance, and capital to navigate the world of mergers and acquisitions.
The M&A Launchpad presents a series of weekly podcast episodes and hosts an annual M&A Launchpad Conference tailored to the M&A community.
Connect with M&A Launchpad:
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mW6i4ooujqC7eOPWmguU7
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/m-a-launchpad/id1740382586
🎟️ Attend Upcoming M&A Launchpad Conference: http://malaunchpad.com/


