Is your business ready for a successful exit? If it isn’t, what are the critical steps to prepare your business for a profitable sale?

Today’s guest is Marty Fahncke, a marketing and M&A pro with over 30 years of experience turning small businesses into giants. Known for his billion-dollar strategies and knack for making complex deals look easy, Marty’s here to share his wisdom.

Join Scott and Marty as they explore:

* Marty’s journey from selling a sporting goods startup to becoming a mergers and acquisitions (M&A) expert.

* How culture differences in mergers can be an asset rather than a hindrance.

* Why business value depends on profit, not revenue, and how to calculate it.

* The benefits of preparing for an exit three years in advance.

* The dangers of being too integral to your business’s operations.

* How the “Five Ds and a B” can force an unexpected business exit.

* Real-life case studies of roll-ups and their transformative power.

* Why intellectual property only has value if it’s generating revenue.

* Strategies for doubling revenue through acquisitions versus traditional growth.

Chapters for this episode:

(02:45) Marty’s Journey into M&A

(08:43) The Role of Culture in Successful Mergers

(14:21) Why Your Involvement Reduces Business Value

(22:39) Timing Your Exit

(31:28) Acquisitions for Small Businesses

(36:41) Growing Revenue Without Selling More

(45:10) Succession Planning

Thanks to Marty Fahncke for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars.

Connect with Marty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martyfahncke/

Learn more about Marty and Westbound Road: https://www.westboundroad.com/

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

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* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

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Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

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Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra-virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose....

What strategies can you use to differentiate your business from competitors and attract premium clients?

This episode of Business Bourbon & Cigars dives into actionable strategies for attracting high-value clients and growing your business. Host Scott Joseph shares personal stories and insights from his mastermind group, emphasizing the importance of detailed client personas, seamless sales processes, and emotional connections. Learn how to leverage strategic partnerships, create memorable client experiences, and implement automation without losing the human touch.

If you really want to know what makes client-focused businesses tick, get Scott’s free book, The Client-Centric Leader: https://meplusultra.com/leadership/

In this episode, Scott explores:

* Creating detailed client personas that go beyond demographics.

* How psychographics can reveal client values, aspirations, and pain points.

* Real-world examples of businesses pivoting their messaging to resonate with ideal clients.

* Delivering on brand promises in building trust and loyalty.

* Steps to streamline the sales process and eliminate points of friction.

* The power of automation tools like CRM systems.

* Using storytelling and high-quality content to create emotional connections with clients.

* Hosting exclusive events to create buzz and attract premium clientele.

Chapters for this episode:

(01:20) The Challenge of Attracting High-Value Clients

(03:41) Creating Detailed Client Personas

(06:09) Delivering on Brand Promises

(07:19) Streamlining Sales

(09:05) Balancing Automation with Personal Touch

(10:35) Strategic Partnerships

(15:06) Emotional Storytelling and Memorable Experiences

Remember to download Scott’s free book now, The Client-Centric Leader: Building Relationships That Drive Business Beyond Expectations: https://meplusultra.com/leadership/

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

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How does trust directly impact a company’s top and bottom line?

Natalie Doyle Oldfield is a recognized thought leader when it comes to the topic of trust. The founder of Success Through Trust Inc, she is on a mission to make trust the cornerstone of every business.

Join Scott and Natalie as they explore:

* Natalie’s new book, Trusted: The Proven Path to Customer Loyalty and Business Growth.

* Why "trust equity" is a measurable and essential business metric.

* Common leadership mistakes that erode trust.

* How a company’s internal trust dynamics affect customer relationships.

* Practical exercises and workshops to improve team and customer trust.

* The tangible benefits of trust on sales and customer loyalty.

* The concept of "being the most trusted company" as a North Star.

Chapters for this episode:

(02:30) Natalie’s Journey to Becoming a Trust Expert

(06:05) Trust During Challenging Economic Times

(13:45) Measuring Trust Equity

(21:14) Building Trust Within Teams

(36:26) Common Mistakes Leaders Make About Trust

(44:43) Practical Tips for Building Trust

Thanks to Natalie Doyle Oldfield for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars.

Natalie Doyle Oldfield is an author and the creator of the Client Trust Index, a proprietary customer experience diagnostic tool, and an online course called Becoming a Trusted Advisor.

Connect with Natalie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliedoyleoldfield/

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra-virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and high-impact events, we empower you to transcend traditional business barriers. To elevate your business, join our Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats to surround yourself with peers who share...

Why is collaboration between you, your attorney, and your accountant essential for business success?

Matthew Fornaro is a business attorney who knows the entrepreneurial journey firsthand. He helps entrepreneurs succeed with strong legal strategies and practical advice.

Join Scott and Matthew as they explore:

* The importance of creating a written business plan to set a strong foundation.

* How attorneys and accountants can work together to reduce tax liabilities and ensure compliance.

* Common mistakes small business owners make when starting out.

* The dangers of poorly structured franchise agreements.

* Why revisiting contracts regularly is essential for long-term success.

* The benefits of proactive legal and financial planning to avoid costly surprises.

* How fractional services like part-time CFOs or attorneys can be cost-effective for small businesses.

Chapters for this episode:

(03:14) Becoming a Small Business Attorney

(07:53) Key Legal Pitfalls Small Businesses Face

(12:43) Collaboration Between Attorneys and Accountants

(20:01) Managing Intellectual Property

(24:54) Lessons from Franchise Agreements Gone Wrong

(41:30) Preventing Litigation with Strong Contracts

Thanks to Matthew Fornaro for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars.

Visit Matthew’s website: www.FornaroLegal.com

Learn more about Matthew: https://www.linkedin.com/company/matthew-fornaro-p.a./about/

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra-virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and high-impact events, we empower you to transcend traditional business barriers. To elevate your business, join our Me Plus Ultra-virtual masterminds and...

What are the six key plays for achieving a healthy, profitable business?

Today’s guest is Stewart Ervin, the founder of Bracket Management and a seasoned fractional CFO who loves helping businesses thrive. With a knack for turning chaos into clarity, Stewart has spent his career empowering leaders to grow their companies and create lasting value.

Join Scott and Stewart as they explore:

* What a fractional CFO is and how they differ from traditional CFOs.

* The benefits of a 30-day forecast for business owners.

* How incremental improvements in pricing, costs, and new business drive value.

* Insights into Stewart's six plays framework for healthy businesses.

* Real-life examples of successful turnarounds and value creation.

* Common pitfalls businesses face when scaling.

Chapters for this episode:

(03:00) Stewart’s Journey to Founding Bracket Management

(08:15) The Role and Benefits of a Fractional CFO

(15:45) Six Key Plays for Business Success

(23:30) Real-Life Turnaround Stories

(31:00) Delegation and Leadership Challenges

(37:45) The Importance of Forecasting

Thanks to Stewart Ervin for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars.

Connect with Stewart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewartervin/

Learn more about Bracket Management: https://www.bracketmgmt.com/

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra-virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and high-impact events, we empower you to transcend traditional business barriers. To elevate your business, join our Me Plus Ultra-virtual masterminds and leadership retreats to surround yourself with peers who share your drive and passion.

* Me Plus Ultra Instagram:

What steps could you take to start building generational wealth today?

In this episode, Scott talks with a powerhouse real estate investor with over $1 billion in multifamily transactions. Veena Jetti shares her journey of breaking into the male-dominated industry, building generational wealth, and empowering others through her community-focused initiatives.

Today’s guest, Veena Jetti, is a dynamic real estate investor and the founding partner of Vive Funds. With her sharp expertise, she’s leading the charge in the multifamily investment space, all while smashing stereotypes and inspiring others to chase big dreams.

Join Scott and Veena as they explore:

* The importance of overcoming limiting beliefs in pursuing big goals.

* How Veena broke into the multifamily real estate space.

* Why certain states like Texas and Florida are ideal for real estate investment.

* Strategies for building generational wealth, starting with “front-loading your sacrifice.”

* How societal norms create unique challenges for women in business and how to overcome them.

* Why Veena prioritizes integrity, diversity, and abundance in her business values.

Chapters for this episode:

(03:36) Veena’s Journey to Real Estate Success

(10:12) Challenges in Real Estate Investing

(17:37) Building Investor Trust and Community

(26:52) Diversity, Integrity, and Abundance in Business

(32:40) Women in Leadership

(41:21) Balancing Career and Family

(56:37) Building Generational Wealth

Thanks to Veena Jetti for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars.

Connect with Veena on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veenajetti

Learn more about Veena: https://veenajetti.com/

Join Veena’s Multi Mastermind: https://getmultimastermind.com/

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary...

How can companies effectively leverage AI to drive digital transformation and enhance client experience?

West Stringfellow is a product and technology visionary with a knack for driving innovation and a track record that includes top roles at Amazon, PayPal, Visa, and Target. He's also the founder of HowDo, a company dedicated to coaching and consulting businesses on how to leverage data and technology for growth.

Join Scott and West as they explore:

* Getting everyone to agree on the current state of the business, which is crucial for successful innovation.

* Creating a safe space for vulnerability and failure, which is essential for fostering innovation.

* Communicating wins and celebrating progress throughout the innovation process.

* The concept of zero-to-one innovation.

* How companies can leverage AI to drive digital transformation.

* Establishing a robust data strategy for implementing AI.

* Building an AI-ready team.

* How education will soon focus on empowering individuals to use AI effectively.

Chapters for this episode:

(03:39) West's Journey of Data and Innovation

(07:32) Achieving Transformative Innovation

(10:40) The Power of an Innovative Culture

(17:56) Zero-to-One Innovation

(21:31) Leveraging AI for Digital Transformation

(27:59) Data Strategy in AI Implementation

(39:20) Innovation for Meaningful Impact

(47:47) The Future of Education and AI

Thanks to West Stringfellow for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars.

Connect with West on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/weststringfellow/

Learn more about HowDo and get free training from some of the world’s top companies: https://howdo.com/

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just...

How can business owners plan and execute a successful business exit?

This episode offers expert insights on planning for a lucrative business exit, including building a strong succession plan, identifying and filling value gaps, and protecting your business during economic downturns. Wayne Zell, a seasoned business transaction expert, shares invaluable advice and real-world examples, emphasizing the importance of starting early and having the right team in place.

Meet Wayne Zell, a CPA and attorney who has been the mastermind behind hundreds of successful business transactions, saving his clients millions of dollars and guiding them towards a smooth and profitable exit.

Join Scott and Wayne as they explore:

* The importance of planning your business exit from the very beginning.

* Understanding the role of a revocable trust in protecting your assets.

* Exploring the benefits and implications of a dynasty trust for wealth preservation.

* Building a solid management succession plan to ensure business continuity.

* Steps to ensure your employees are taken care of during and after a business sale.

* Common red flags and mistakes to avoid when preparing to exit your business.

* The emotional and psychological aspects of exiting a business for entrepreneurs.

Chapters for this episode:

(07:10) Wayne Zell's Journey to Becoming a Business Expert

(08:54) The Importance of Exit Planning

(15:28) Revocable Trusts and Dynasty Trusts

(29:32) Increasing Business Value for Sale

(34:13) Exiting in a Potential Downturn

(36:35) Protecting Employees During a Sale

(42:54) Exiting a Business: High Net Worth vs. Smaller Business Owners

(48:26) Red Flags and Mistakes to Avoid

Thanks to Wayne Zell for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars.

Connect with Wayne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-zell-5aa1147/

Get Wayne’s book: Your Multimillion-Dollar Exit: The Entrepreneur's Business Success(ion) Planner: A Blueprint for Wealth Guide: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C2F2R753

Schedule a free business exit assessment with Wayne: https://www.aspiretoexit.com/get-started

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business....