Before You Buy or Sell a Business

In this episode of "Before You Buy or Sell a Business," host Jared Johnson welcomes Conner Young, co-founder of Kairo Data. The conversation centers around Kairo Data's innovative platform, designed to streamline the process of finding and acquiring small to medium-sized businesses. Conner shares his team's journey from traditional wealth management to solving complex acquisition challenges through proprietary databases and off-market deals.Conner provides an in-depth tour of Kairo Data's features, explaining how they aggregate business listings from various sources into a single, convenient platform. Users can refine their searches to match their specific acquisition criteria, create custom alerts, and even manage campaigns for off-market leads. For those looking to outsource the initial stages of their search, Kairo Data offers comprehensive campaign services. The discussion also delves into key considerations for both buyers and sellers, emphasizing transparency and strategic engagement.Key Takeaways:Efficient Acquisition Tools: Kairo Data aggregates listings from multiple sources, streamlining the search process for potential buyers.Custom Alerts and Filters: Users can set up detailed alerts and customized buy boxes to focus their searches more effectively.Campaign Services: Kairo Data offers an end-to-end solution for buyers, handling outreach and initial vetting of potential sellers.Transparent Engagement: Both buyers and sellers are encouraged to be transparent and organized during the negotiation process to ensure a smoother transaction.Affordable Access: The platform provides valuable tools at a competitive price, making it accessible to a broad range of buyers.Resources:Kairo Data WebsiteEmail: team@kairodata.comEnjoy this insightful episode to explore how Kairo Data is revolutionizing the acquisition!______________________________________________________________________If you have questions for Jared, visit JaredWJohnson.comDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this program are my own and/or those of my guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of my employer.

Before you buy or sell a business, perhaps you've read "Buy Then Build."Today's podcast guest, Matt Crowder, talks about how that book set him further down the entrepreneurial path.Matt, a borrower I worked with, recently acquired Western Stairlifts, a business specializing in home mobility equipment. We explore his transition from a traditional career in the tech industry to full-time entrepreneurship. The guest shares the pivotal moments, challenges, and learnings from both their vending machine business and the acquisition of Western Stairlifts.From selling snowflakes to technology, from managing a vending machine route to buying a business, Matt provides valuable insight for fellow entrepreneurs.______________________________________________________________________If you have questions for Jared, visit JaredWJohnson.comDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this program are my own and/or those of my guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of my employer.______________________________________________________________________CHAPTERS0:00 | Introduction9:32 | Helping Utah's Elderly and Disabled with Home Mobility Solutions12:43 | Acquiring Western Stairlifts and Overcoming Initial Business Challenges25:51 | Navigating Google Business Profile Challenges and Address Discrepancies29:58 | Challenges and Triumphs of Running a Small Business

Before You Buy or Sell a Business, be prepared.That's what today's guest would tell anyone who is looking to buy a business like he did.I am happy that I got to sit down with George Ayomide, a two-time borrower of mine. George is an ambitious entrepreneur who has made significant strides in the business world. From his early business experience in Nigeria to his successful ventures in the United States, George shares his insights on acquiring and transforming businesses, maintaining effective customer relations, and ensuring seamless transitions.In this podcast episode, George discusses his first business acquisition, a window tinting and graphic design company in Dallas, detailing the steps he took to evaluate and smoothly transition the company. He elaborates on the importance of preparation and listening to customers, which led to innovative improvements in the business. A year later, George then moves on to his second acquisition, a well-established company in the automotive industry. He emphasizes the value of having a dedicated team and the significance of setting clear expectations during the business transition. This episode is filled with practical advice and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike.______________________________________________________________________If you have questions for Jared, visit JaredWJohnson.comDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this program are my own and/or those of my guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of my employer.

Before you buy a business, ask the seller this question, "What are some problems you've dealt with in the last month?"Keira Hamilton asked that question to the seller before she bought the laundromat that she now owns.Join me in this captivating conversation with Keira Hamilton, a former educator turned entrepreneur. We'll delve into the nuances of due diligence, the realities of owning a laundromat, and the transition from real estate to business acquisition. Discover insights on validating business operations, managing employee relationships, and the significance of understanding seller motivations. Keira shares her personal journey and the learning curve involved in running a successful business. Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs and those curious about business ownership, this episode is packed with invaluable advice and practical tips!You can follow Keira on:LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/keirahamilton/YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@Keira_Hamilton______________________________________________________________________If you have questions for Jared, visit JaredWJohnson.comDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this program are my own and/or those of my guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of my employer.

Selling a business is no small feat, and it requires astute planning, risk-taking, and timely decisions. Thomas Perkins, a seasoned entrepreneur, recently shared his wisdom on the "Before You Buy or Sell a Business" podcast. His journey from being a self-employed barber to a successful business owner of a company grossing $3.5 million annually carries valuable lessons for anyone considering embarking on this path.In this podcast episode, I talk with Thomas about the highs and lows he faced, from managing finances and credit lines to navigating the complexities of selling a business. Discover invaluable advice for both buyers and sellers, including the significance of long-term financial planning and the importance of ensuring a smooth transition for business continuity. If you're exploring the world of business acquisitions, Perkins' story offers critical insights and practical tips.______________________________________________________________________If you have questions for Jared, visit JaredWJohnson.com______________________________________________________________________CHAPTERS0:00 | Introduction1:49 | From Barber to Business Owner: A Journey of Self-Discovery8:36 | The Freedom and Challenges of Self-Employment in Sales9:30 | Overcoming Financial Challenges to Build a Successful Business13:11 | Becoming the Go-To Vendor for Property Management Needs26:06 | Ensuring Smooth Business Transition Through Early Collaboration and Financial Support35:37 | Self-Motivation and Finding Purpose Through Projects38:28 | The Importance of Ethical Business Handoffs______________________________________________________________________DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this program are my own and/or those of my guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of my employer.

Buyers and sellers can be friends, right? Well, what about business partners that work together to scale HVAC businesses?In this episode of the Before You Buy or Sell a Business podcast, I sit down with Marc Chard and Spencer Satorie of Apex Services dive into their journey of expanding HVAC companies, sharing insights on acquisitions, systems implementation, and management across multiple locations. From their initial partnership to acquiring multiple companies, they reveal strategies for overcoming challenges, the importance of a solid system, and their growth plans, including adding plumbing services. Discover how they effectively manage diverse operations and hear their advice for aspiring business owners.If you're interested in the intricacies of business acquisitions and roll-ups, you won't want to miss this.📢If you are interested in sponsoring the podcast, reach out to me at Jared@JaredWJohnson.comCHAPTERS0:00 | Introduction5:05 | Business Acquisition and Transition Period Challenges7:54 | Navigating Business Partnerships and Growth Strategies11:47 | Challenges and Successes in Acquiring Underperforming Businesses25:06 | Challenges and Strategies in Managing Multiple Acquisitions31:19 | Empowering Managers with Trust and Control in Franchise Operations38:45 | The Challenges and Rewards of Scaling a Business______________________________________________________________________If you have questions for Jared, visit JaredWJohnson.comDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this program are my own and/or those of my guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of my employer.

Before you buy or sell a business, hear Josh Levine on the nuances and evolving trends in the business acquisition landscape.In today’s podcast episode, I am joined again (see episode 5) by Josh Levine of Private Market Labs where we talk about:Importance of Focus: Presenting a clear and specific investment thesis helps you stand out to brokers and streamlines the decision-making process.Role of Brokers: Using brokers can expedite the acquisition process and increase the likelihood of closure, although the quality of brokers can vary.Market Dynamics: The increase in searcher activity and higher interest rates are significantly shaping the current business acquisition environment.Economic Impact: Covid-19 and interest rate changes have introduced new challenges but also opened up opportunities in the market.Mentorship and Support: Engaging with mentors and support networks is crucial for navigating the complexities of buying and running a business.Listen in for valuable perspectives on navigating the acquisition process, industry trends, and the future outlook for buyers and sellers.Keep up with Josh on X (Twitter)More about Private Market LabsCheck out the Private Market Labs Podcast

In this episode of the Before You Buy or Sell a Business podcast, host Jared Johnson sits down with long-time friends and now business owners, Brandt and Danielle Badouin. The couple shares their journey from their respective corporate careers to purchasing a nail salon, highlighting the challenges and triumphs they experienced along the way. Jared and the Badouins delve into the nuances of transitioning from being employees to business owners, offering invaluable insights and advice for anyone considering a similar path.The episode kicks off with Brandt and Danielle's backgrounds, outlining their extensive experience in their respective fields—Brandt's in telecommunications and fitness, and Danielle's in health insurance and project management. Their transition into business ownership wasn't planned, as Jared introduced the opportunity to them unexpectedly. This serendipitous event set off a chain of decisions and actions that culminated in them owning a profitable nail salon. Throughout the episode, Brandt and Danielle discuss the importance of researching, assessing risks, and maintaining a balance between their existing careers and new responsibilities as business owners.Key Takeaways:Preparation and Research: The importance of thoroughly researching and understanding the business you're planning to buy cannot be overstated.People Management: Retaining and understanding the existing workforce is crucial for a smooth transition.Working Capital: Having sufficient working capital helps in managing unexpected expenses and stabilizing the business during the initial months.Mentorship and Guidance: The value of having mentors and trustworthy advisors to guide you through the process of buying and running a business.Balancing Act: How to maintain a balance between your existing job and new business responsibilities for initial stability and long-term success.______________________________________________________________________If you have questions for Jared, visit JaredWJohnson.comDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this program are my own and/or those of my guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of my employer.

Welcome back to another episode of the "Before You Buy or Sell a Business" podcast, host Jared Johnson engages in an insightful conversation with Jeanise Hatcher, a dynamic entrepreneur who transitioned from a corporate career to owning a Pilates studio in Austin, Texas. Initially stumbling upon Pilates during her recovery from a dance injury, Jeanise found a new passion that she decided to transform into a business venture. She candidly shares her journey of acquiring the studio, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned along the way.Jeanise details the rigorous process of buying a business, from exploring Best Buy's listings to working closely with a lawyer and broker to navigate due diligence effectively. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the business operations, engaging with the community, and preparing financially for the acquisition. Her honesty about power struggles with the previous owner and the unexpected challenges she encountered provides a realistic perspective on purchasing and running a business. This episode is a goldmine for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those looking to invest in the fitness industry.Key Takeaways:Preparation is Key: Jeanise stresses the importance of thorough due diligence and preparing financially before taking over a business.Understand Seasonality: Recognizing and planning for the seasonal nature of fitness businesses can help manage cash flow and ensure sustainability.Navigating Power Dynamics: Handling the power transition smoothly, especially when the previous owner stays involved, is crucial for maintaining business operations.Blending Passions: Jeanise talks about integrating her interests in holistic wellness and motivational speaking into her Pilates studio to create a unique business model.Professional Guidance: The indispensable role of having a knowledgeable lawyer and a supportive broker during the acquisition process.ResourcesZenergy Pilates - Jeanise's Pilates StudioBoutique Fitness Solutions - Mentioned by Jeanise for mentorship and consultingFor more on Jeanise's journey and valuable advice on buying and managing a business, tune in to the full episode. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from "Before You Buy or Sell a Business" podcast!In this episode:0:00 | Blending Spiritual Readings with Pilates and Motivational Speaking3:08 | The Overlooked Physical Toll of Dance Compared to Other Sports7:02 | Supply Chain Management at Major Tech Companies8:07 | From Dance Studios to Pilates: A Journey of Diversification10:35 | The Importance of Due Diligence When Buying a Business15:22 | Navigating Business Purchase Agreements and Lease Negotiations21:38 | Challenges of Taking Over a Pilates Studio26:48 | The Reality of Buying and Running a Business27:42 | Transitioning Leadership and Overcoming Challenges in Business Ownership30:21 | Navigating Power Struggles During Business Transitions33:22 | Integrating Sound Healing and Spirituality into Pilates35:18 | Jeanise Hatcher's Journey to Business Success and Future Aspirations______________________________________________________________________If you have questions for Jared, visit JaredWJohnson.comDISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this program are my own and/or those of my guests. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of my employer.______________________________________________________________________

Welcome back to another episode of the Before You Buy or Sell a Business podcast.Recently, I sat down with Rand Larsen and he shared his journey from startup adventures to carving out a niche in the entrepreneurial through acquisition (ETA) space. The discussion unfolds with an exploratory look into Rand's foray into starting his own company and the lessons learned from its quick demise due to external factors like the pandemic. His pivot to buying businesses and his current focus on crafting peer groups provide a rich tapestry of insights for both budding and seasoned entrepreneurs.Rand's candid recount of his experiences illuminates the challenges and rewards of embarking on entrepreneurial ventures. With an engaging narrative, he dives into the intricacies of building a business from the ground up, transitioning to buying established companies, and creating a supportive community through events and peer groups. The conversation touches on topics such as the feasibility of buying small businesses, the power of mentorship, and the potential of innovative marketing strategies in the digital age.Takeaways:Adaptability is Key: Rand's career path emphasizes the need for adaptability, showcasing a readiness to pivot and leverage new opportunities.The Power of Community: Building peer groups and organizing events foster camaraderie and knowledge sharing among entrepreneurs.Buying Credibility: Acquiring a smaller business can serve as a stepping stone for building credibility in the market and securing more substantial deals.Understand Employee Dynamics: Post-acquisition, understanding and navigating the complexities of employee management is crucial for business success.Innovative Marketing for Growth: Rand's unique approach to promoting his peer groups through road trips and potential RV branding exemplifies creative marketing techniques.IN THIS EPISODE0:00 | Introduction6:15 | Building Community Through Local Entrepreneurial Events13:14 | Rand Larsen's RV Adventure for Entrepreneurial Networking17:11 | Pitching to Marcus Lemonis on Twitter24:23 | Balancing Authenticity and Positivity in Business Storytelling27:12 | Evolving Strategies in Small Business Acquisitions34:37 | Delegating Leadership to Transform Business Operations37:33 | Employee Challenges in Post-Acquisition Business Management44:48 | Mentorship, Motivation, and Meaningful Impact in Entrepreneurship48:08 | Rand Larsen Discusses Online Presence and Future CollaborationsResources:Follow Rand Larsen on his journey and discover more about peer groups for business owners:Twitter: @RandLarsen (As mentioned, Rand's life and knowledge about business are documented on Twitter)Listen to Rand's story and learn from his experiences by tuning into the full episode. Stay connected for more episodes that shed light on the real-world aspects of buying, selling, and managing businesses. Don't miss out on valuable advice that could help catapult your ventures to new heights.