February 26, 2025
When There’s a Process…
There’s process for everything. Some detailed and mandatory like when manufacturing vehicles, plans, appliances, etc. Some intuitive, like things we do daily, how we talk…
February 19, 2025
Super Value Driver, and Deal Killer
It’s tough to write anything without mentioning the horrific fires in the Los Angeles area. It shows how we can be blindsided at any time.…
February 12, 2025
Succession? What Succession (Plan)?
The headline was, “Sam Adams Brews Succession Plan (WSJ, December 26, 2024). Founder Jim Koch wisecracked for years that his succession plan was, “Don’t die.”…
January 29, 2025
Lessons from the Getting the Deal Done Breakfast Conference
We recently summarized the panel discussion at the Getting the Deal Done Breakfast Conference and it’s just as important to share the high points from…
January 11, 2025
Exit Plan Basics
Here are the main elements of your exit plan. Communication is a prerequisite to the following steps. It’s touchy to think about telling employees your…
January 8, 2025
Stories Sell
This is a real-life story. A business owner is ready to sell and exit. He’s received numerous inquiries from others in his industry, has talked…
December 30, 2024
How to Get the Deal Done
We recently held the Getting the Deal Done Breakfast Conference, which started 15 years ago. Some things never change, as in, ~200 RSVPs, 20-25% no-shows,…
December 18, 2024
The Right and Wrong Way
This memo is out on election day so let’s tie together a few things. A recent article highlighted how companies are clamping down and even…
December 11, 2024
If You Don’t Invest You Collapse
Cuba recently experienced a nationwide electrical blackout, this after numerous partial blackouts, closing of schools and other “non-essential” buildings, and doing other things to preserve…
December 6, 2024
Before You Sell – Take Care of Yourself
Before you even think about the steps needed to sell your business, you need to get prepared personally. This means be ready: Emotionally Financially Family…
